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My fundamental research interests include aquatic
colloidal chemistry, membrane science, and interfacial phenomena. An important practical theme for my research
has been mitigating membrane fouling in desalination and water reuse
applications. Over time we have
established rigorous relationships between membrane surface features
(roughness, charge, and hydrophilicity), interfacial phenomena
(hydrodynamic and colloidal), and membrane fouling (organic, colloidal,
and biological). This fundamental
research has lead to the invention of a new type of “nanocomposite”
reverse osmosis membrane, now being developed for desalination and water
reuse applications in collaboration with an industrial sponsor. More recently, I have begun to
incorporate aspects of nanotechnology, electrochemistry, sensors, and
advanced materials into my overall research program and I am extending my
research on surface fouling phenomena other aquatic systems. The broader impact of these scientific
and engineering advances is to greatly enhance the technical and economic
feasibility of desalination and water reuse, which are critical for
draught protection and water sustainability in Southern
California and beyond.
In addition, the students who lead these research projects are
being trained as the next generation of water quality and treatment
technology experts.
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