WC137 JulyAug 2024 - Magazine - Page 18
WASTEWATER
evaluating plastic waste solutions. So, looking at plastics that
are widely used for a range of applications, but their end of life
is not figured out,” he added.
This, you could say, is a reactive approach to plastic. We
know plastic waste exists and pollutes all parts of our world,
but we haven’t figured out how to manage it.
Mekonnen’s research in both the production and reuse of
plastic waste as well as his focus on working towards a circular
economy has led to a monumental discovery. Together with his
master’s student, Rachel Blanchard, they have developed a way
to remove nanoplastics from water by using plastic waste.
From plastic waste to plastic capture
The key to this new method is carbonization. Mekonnen has
previously used this process to turn soft plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET), used for water bottles and clothing,
into activated carbon.
Activated carbon isn’t new to the world of
pollutant capture, especially with wastewater.
Though it’s proven to be highly effective at
removing contaminants like heavy metals and
organic compounds, it’s often cost-inefficient.
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WATER C AN ADA • JULY/AUGUS T 2024
University of Waterloo
Dr. Tizazu Mekonnen working with his team in his University of Waterloo lab.
Images of the activated carbons produced using different treatment conditions
for the conversion of the epoxy plastic. The first image is the carbon produced
using no chemical activating agent, and therefore has no pores and low surface
area. The second image is a magnification of a different sample showing to have
higher amounts of pores and surface area, resulting in optimal properties.
WAT E R C A N A D A . N E T
