Monitoring and detection of emerging contaminants and water quality

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In this ARTP Option 1 initiative, Fleming College's research centres will undertake applied research projects that will lead to the development, optimization, and utilization of technologies that monitor or detect emerging contaminants, contaminants of concern, microbial contaminants, and other water quality indicators. Emerging contaminants found in water include pharmaceuticals, natural and synthetic hormones, personal care products, and heavy metals. These contaminants, despite being found in trace amounts, pose a risk to humans, aquatic life, and the environment. Traditional wastewater treatment techniques do not adequately remove these compounds from wastewater, allowing them to be released back into the surrounding environs where they can accumulate. Advancements in smart sensors and innovative detection methods over the last few years have made rapid testing and detection of trace amounts of contaminants possible and the recent pandemic has increased the market interest for these types of technologies, providing a big opportunity for Canada's companies. Once water quality issues are detected, companies and municipalities are able to implement advanced treatment and mitigation measures. The theme of this initiative directly aligns with the existing strengths of Fleming's research centres (the Centre for Advancement of Water and Wastewater Technologies, Centre for Innovative Aquaculture Production, and Centre for Advancement in Mechatronics and Industrial Internet of Things), as Fleming has become a hub for companies looking to use or develop advanced monitoring and sensing technologies for water and wastewater applications. Fleming College's research teams will collaborate with technology developers to design, develop, prototype, and pilot advanced water monitoring and detection systems. Researchers will also work with end-users in numerous sectors, including the aquaculture sector, to find monitoring and detection solutions for their water quality related issues. To make the most impact on industry partners, the initiative is targeting large projects that will take about a year or more to complete. The results of the important applied research carried out in this initiative will serve numerous industries across Canada, from aquaculture, to municipal wastewater, agriculture, pharmaceutical production, robotics, and more.