Nutrient Recovery From Wastewater

Nutrient recovery from wastewater focuses on developing and optimizing processes to extract valuable nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, from municipal and industrial wastewater streams. Research in this area investigates various separation and conversion technologies, including struvite precipitation, membrane filtration, and advanced oxidation processes. Investigations explore the microbial communities involved in nutrient cycling and the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence for process monitoring and control. The goal is to transform wastewater from a waste product into a source of renewable resources.

This work holds significant relevance for Arkansas, a state with a strong agricultural sector and numerous water bodies. Efficient nutrient recovery can reduce the environmental impact of agricultural runoff, protecting water quality in Arkansas's rivers, lakes, and the Mississippi River Basin. Furthermore, recovering nutrients can support sustainable fertilizer production, contributing to the economic viability of farming operations and reducing reliance on imported resources. This research also addresses challenges related to wastewater treatment infrastructure and public health.

This field draws upon expertise in environmental engineering, microbial ecology, and data science. Interdisciplinary collaborations extend across multiple institutions within Arkansas, fostering a comprehensive approach to addressing complex challenges in wastewater management and resource recovery.