Ridding the environment of potentially harmful chemicals called PFAS and detoxifying harmful algal blooms are goals of a continued research partnership between the Arkansas Water Resources Center and the University of Arkansas College of Engineering.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to addressing the state's most pressing water challenges through innovative research and cutting-edge solutions, says Brian Haggard, director of the Arkansas Water Resources Center and a professor in the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department.

In a partnership now entering its second year, the center has committed $50,000 to fund two faculty-led research projects, and the College of Engineering has contributed $20,000 to support two student-led initiatives. This combined investment fulfills the required 1:1 match for the center's annual base funding under the Water Resources Research Act, amplifying the impact of federal dollars directed toward critical water challenges.

"We are excited to deepen our partnership with the College of Engineering, empowering innovative water research," Haggard said. "This collaboration is pivotal for our students and the sustainable future of Arkansas' water resources. By combining our resources and expertise, we're able to tackle complex water quality challenges while training the next generation of water professionals."

The Arkansas Water Resources Center is a unit of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, the research arm of the U of A System Division of Agriculture.

PFAS solution

The College of Engineering funds will support two engineering graduate students tackling pressing water quality issues. Annie Lobitz will collaborate with Lei Guo, assistant professor of civil engineering at the U of A, to investigate rapid, small-scale column tests designed to enhance removal of long-lasting chemicals called PFAS using modified anion exchange resins. The resins are solid, bead-shaped polymer materials that capture unwanted anions like halide impurities or sulfates and release less problematic ions to demineralize water.

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They are a group of manmade chemicals that resist heat, water and grease and are used in things like nonstick cookware, stain-repellent fabrics and food packaging. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Algal blooms project

Wafa Youssfi will work alongside Wen Zhang, professor of civil engineering, to explore environmental triggers and cyanophage-based strategies to control toxic elements of harmful algal blooms, including Microcystis aeruginosa, a species of freshwater cyanobacteria. Cyanophages are viruses that infect cyanobacteria and sometimes produce toxins like microcystin that can be dangerous to humans and animals.

"Supporting student-led research is one of the most impactful investments we can make," said Kartik Balachandran, interim associate dean for research at the College of Engineering. "These projects address real-world water quality issues facing Arkansas communities while providing our graduate students with invaluable hands-on research experience. It's a win-win for both our academic mission and the state's future."

As this partnership continues to grow, it strengthens the state's capacity to address emerging water challenges while building a robust pipeline of skilled researchers committed to protecting our vital water resources.