Optimizing the Design of Constructed Wetlands for the Photodegradation of Organic Contaminants

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This project is investigating the potential role of constructed and natural wetlands in treating non-point source pollution and evaluating the importance of such wetlands in catalyzing photolysis of herbicides and pharmaceuticals. The research plan is hypothesis-driven and will test the innovative idea that addition of iron to wetlands will promote photolysis of synthetic organic contaminants by generating reactive oxygen species. The target chemicals to be studied include three herbicides and two pharmaceuticals. The results will lead to improved understanding of treating organic contaminants in surface wetlands and benefits could accrue to society if constructed wetlands could be designed to provide better treatment of these contaminants. The project also has innovative outreach activities involving K-12 students and their teachers.