Researchers at UPEI are currently exploring the use of sawdust for wastewater treatment, aiming to tackle ‘forever chemicals’ such as PFAS in the future. The project involves converting sawdust sourced from local mills in Prince Edward Island into activated carbon, a common component in household water filtration systems. Yulin Hu, an engineering assistant professor at UPEI, likens the process to a sponge, where contaminants are trapped within the material, enabling their removal from water.
Initial tests have demonstrated the effectiveness of the activated carbon against synthetic dyes, a prevalent water pollutant in the textile sector. The next phase involves assessing its performance with actual wastewater from various industries on the island. While the efficacy of the method against PFAS-contaminated water has yet to be verified, there is optimism that it could provide relief to Islanders grappling with tainted drinking water.
PFAS exposure, as highlighted in a federal government report, poses significant health risks to individuals, impacting vital organs and systems such as the liver, kidneys, immune system, reproductive system, and nervous system. This underscores the urgency of finding viable solutions to address water contamination issues. Hu emphasized the importance of clean drinking water for affected communities in PEI and expressed a commitment to devising practical solutions to mitigate the impact of pollutants.
Milad Jalilian, a Ph.D. student at UPEI involved in the project for the past two years, emphasized the collective responsibility in safeguarding water quality. Drawing from his background as a former petroleum engineer who witnessed environmental damage, Jalilian stressed the importance of actively contributing to environmental preservation efforts. His transition to research in environmental remediation reflects a personal commitment to community well-being and environmental sustainability.
The project’s overarching goal includes developing a versatile filtration system for both household and industrial applications. Researchers are also exploring the conversion of sawdust into biochar, a product derived from natural waste materials typically sourced from agricultural and forestry activities. Hu envisions potential applications of biochar for enhancing soil water retention, particularly beneficial for farmers.
