2025 STUDENT POSTER GALLERY
The Poster Contest provides a platform for students to engage with real-world issues and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about water treatment and public health. These posters are making waves and sparking important conversations about the future of water.
POSTER GALLERY SPONSOR:
WQRF is excited to showcase the incredible talent of our participants. Special thanks to our sponsor, Pentair Water Solutions!
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A Challenge for Full-Scale Prediction: Ion Exchange Resin Preparation Impacts Adsorption of PFAS during RSSCTs
Tihitna G. Mulugeta, Mahmut S. Ersan University of North Dakota This study evaluated: (i) how grinding techniques affected adsorption of PFAS in rapid small scale column tests (RSSCTs), ii) the role of material preparation on prediction accuracy, and (iii) the influence of different water matrices on RSSCTs accuracy. Results show significant variability in PFOA breakthrough depending on grinding technique. 
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Leveraging Smart Technology: Transforming Turbidity Measurement for Safer Water Access
Lindsey Pegram University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill This research developed and piloted a novel, low-cost (<$5) miniaturized turbidity tube for use with mobile phone cameras and free software to monitor turbidity in water. Citizen scientists can utilize this technology to monitor surface water, while well-water users can use this as a potential early warning sign of well damage or surface-water intrusion. 
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Evaluating Reverse Osmosis Filtration Systems for Sustainable Water Access in Low Income Communities
Daniel Gonzalez, Brianna Agyapong Columbia University This study compares the performance, efficiency, & economic feasibility of reverse osmosis (RO) systems and alternative filtration in lower-income communities like the South Bronx and South Los Angeles. The research shows that RO systems offer a 90% savings over alternatives like bottled water and pitcher filters when measured over one year. 
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Development of Polymer-Iron Oxide Nanofiber Composites for Enhanced Lead Removal in Point-of-Use Water Treatment
Sewoon Kim, University of Iowa Nosang V. Myung and David M. Cwiertny, University of Notre Dame This research addresses the limitations of existing POU filters by developing a functionalized polymer-iron oxide nanofiber composite. The resulting nanofiber membrane offers a mechanically robust, high-performance filter under simulated tap water pressures that is effective for lead removal. 
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