METAL SPECIATION:  

Metals in the aquatic environments are an environmental concern. The extent of the negative impact of metals is strongly dependent on the molecular form of the metal. Metals may be bound to natural organic matter, bacterial and/or mineral surfaces. Often (but not always), the bound metal is less toxic and possibly less mobile then the free form. Analytical methods that determine forms of metal are termed speciation methods. Metal speciation in aquatic systems is a primary research interest of the CLEAR lab.

NUTRIENT REMOVAL/RECOVERY:

Nutrient related research involves studies on optimize phosphate removal during sewage treatment.  To optimize phosphate removal it is first necessary to understand the mechanism of phosphate removal.  This involves the application of geochemical experimental and modelling techniques to understanding phosphate interactions with colloids and surfaces.  More recent work is moving towards nitrogen species as well as phosphorus and nutrient recovery rather than removal.

ANALYTICAL METHOD DEVELOPMENT:

Copyright © 2015 by Scott Smith.