Novel catalysts and processes to enhance reaction of ozone with pollutants in air and water

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This research program aims to develop novel heterogeneous catalysts and the associated processes to enhance reactions of ozone (O3 - an active form of oxygen) with organic pollutants in air and emerging pollutants in water.*******I have more than 14 years of research experience in utilizing ozone gas and the catalytic reactions of ozone with pollutants. I have established my research laboratory at the U of Saskatchewan with support from NSERC and two recent CFI grants. My two research foci on air treatment (Focus A) and water treatment (Focus B) aim to create knowledge, develop innovative air and water treatment technologies, and train HQP.*******Focus A****Hydrocarbon air pollutants (e.g., toluene, formaldehyde) are mostly emitted by furniture and office equipment in buildings. Eliminating these pollutants by controlled catalytic oxidation with ozone can improve indoor air quality and reduce building energy consumption. We have developed effective, low-cost, manganese oxide catalysts that facilitate reaction of ozone with hydrocarbon air pollutants. One goal of this research is to enhance the activity and stability of our catalyst by using size-controlled metal nano-clusters and carbon nanotube supports. We will use the improved catalysts to determine optimum design and operating parameters for the development of an air treatment unit for installation with air conditioning systems.*******Focus B****Emerging pollutants (e.g., pharmaceuticals, pesticides) are potent chemicals that are detected in bodies of natural water and are becoming an imminent health concern for both aquatic organisms and humans. Their release is practically inevitable due to population growth and the associated development. Current water and wastewater treatment processes do not completely eliminate these pollutants. Catalytic reaction with ozone is a promising method to degrade these pollutants in water. We will work on developing stable catalysts with highly dispersed metal clusters on molecular sieve adsorbing supports to degrade emerging pollutants in water. Our goal is to convert emerging pollutants to biodegradable products through catalytic reaction with ozone in water. Through this work, we will develop a better understanding of the role of the catalyst in producing active OH radicals in water and the catalytic surface reactions that direct the complex reaction network. A practical outcome of this research is development of a catalytic ozonation treatment technology to eliminate emerging pollutants from water and wastewater.*******Results from our research program will be published and potentially patented. This research will benefit the public by enhancing their quality of life and Canadian industries by maintaining their scientific and technological leadership. The program will contribute to the training of HQP in the fields of catalysis, environmental remediation, process industries, and environmental engineering.***************