UV-LED Photoreactors for Environmental Monitoring and Treatment

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Environmental monitoring and treatment are required to protect the public and the environment from toxic contaminants and pathogens that can affect a variety of media, in particular, air and water. This research program applies several emerging technological innovations, including nanomaterial fabrication, ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED), and artificial intelligence (AI), to address the very important global issue of monitoring and treatment of air and water quality. The long-term vision of the research program is the development of miniature sensors for the worldwide monitoring of air and water quality, and the creation of point-of-use, maintenance-free air and water treatment systems. The proposed research program focuses on the development of a novel photo-activated sensing technology for air quality monitoring and a photoelectrochemical system for water treatment by the combined elimination of microbial and chemical contaminants. Gas sensing system: The advent of the wireless sensor network, a group of spatially dispersed and dedicated sensors, could ultimately result in a more comprehensive understanding of global environmental patterns and help to address a number of global climate change issues. In the proposed research, we will take a new direction in sensor development by creating semiconductor-based sensor arrays activated by UV-LED that are responsive to a variety of gas pollutant mixtures. We will then apply AI to teach the sensors to not only detect the presence of these gases, but to also identify their composition. This is a challenging but highly rewarding goal, which, when achieved, will help us to meet the demands of global-scale sensor deployment for environmental monitoring. Water treatment system: With population pressures, climate change, and overuse making every water source significant, we need to look to advanced treatment technologies. We will develop a novel photoelectrochemical system by integrating the electrochemical production of oxidative agents with UV-LED irradiation in a single integrated unit. This new technological approach can result in the simultaneous inactivation of microorganisms and decomposition of micropollutants from water, while operating at low power and without maintenance. The proposed program of research will further Canada's expertise and competitiveness in environmental sciences by providing a competitive training environment for highly-qualified personnel (HQP). HQP trained in this program will develop essential theoretical and analytical skills as well as the technological know-how to lead research and development activities related to sensing technology, AI, and environmental monitoring. The principal investigator has nearly 20 years of experience in the development of UV reactors and systems in industry and academia. He has been involved in leading research programs, developing new technologies, product innovation, and the creation of a successful company.