Low-technology sustainable drinking water treatment

Advisor: Dr. James Jensen (Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering)
Other Mentors: None
Primary Activities: Laboratory experiments

Project Summary: According to the World Health Organization, more than 3.4 million people die each year from waterborne diseases. The vast majority of deaths come from societies lacking water treatment infrastructure or in cases of disaster (for example, the Haiti earthquake).  The purpose of this project is to develop drinking water treatment prototypes that operate sustainably without infrastructure support. Example power sources may include human and solar power. Emphasis will be on native materials and approaches compatible with societal practices.

Skills/Courses Recommended: Basic knowledge of chemistry
Anticipated Conference Presentation(s): Great Lake Research Consortium