Exploring the mechanism(s) of action of an environmental remediation technology

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The proposed research will strengthen the research and development capacity of an environmental engineering company (WCI Environmental Solutions, Inc.) working in the area advanced water treatment technology. WCI has a proprietary technology, the EOS-2000, that rapidly increases dissolved oxygen and redox potential (ORP) in water, improving the function and aesthetics (odour and visible blooms of algae) of bodies of water that are chronically low in oxygen. The technology has a broad range of potential applications, from sewage lagoons, to storm water retention ponds, to large natural bodies of water. However, exactly how the EOS-2000 increases dissolved oxygen is not clear. There are two possible, but not mutually exclusive, mechanisms that may explain the technology's effect on dissolved oxygen ORP. The research will use whole pond studies to determine how the technology works, and what the impacts are on sediment reduction through enhanced degradation of the organic matter in sediment, and on nutrient retention. It is essential for WCI to be able to explain how this technology works, and under what conditions it is most effective when communicating with potential clients. The knowledge generated from the proposed research will enable WCI to expand their market in storm water and sewage management, and move their technology into new markets. This will increase WCI's footprint in the advanced water treatment sector, expanding revenues and employment opportunities in the sector. The knowledge gained will also benefit the public sector (municipalities and conservation authorities) and private owners of storm water management infrastructure. It will advance a technology that can be integrated into master storm water management strategies. The technology can reduce the maintenance costs of storm water ponds and other infrastructure associated with sediment removal (dredging) and disposal.