ECE faculty awarded a NOAA grant for Detection, Monitoring, and Removal of Microplastics

ECE Professor Mark Cheng was recently awarded a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration titled “Holistic Detection, Monitoring, and Removal of Microplastics Using Integrated Sensing and Filtration Systems”

The project proposes (1) to create a low-fidelity product of the portable, cost-effective integrated system of microplastic filters and sensors that real-time monitor, capture, and remove micro and nano plastics in water streams, coastal rivers, and other waterbodies, classifying them by size, shape, morphology, and chemical composition. (2) to refine filtration and sampling methods based on user-centered design in partnership with potential users, including federal agencies, academic institutions and private sectors, (3) and to establish a user community promoting public awareness of microplastic challenges and responsible behaviors that can help reduce microplastic inputs and accumulation in the ocean, and mitigate the environmental impact due to such a micro and nano plastic pollution. Combining these novel sensor and filter devices will enable the holistic operation of capture, removal, and monitoring of targeted micro and nanoplastics from stream water and water resources recovery facilities to the Gulf River and oceanic environment, positively impacting many local and coastal communities.

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