Study level

  • Honours

Faculty/School

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Supervisors

Professor Yang Liu
Position
Professor and Chair of Sustainable Water Technologies
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Engineering
Dr Lei Zhang
Position
Research Fellow in Innovative and Energy-Efficient Biological Wastewater Treatment
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Engineering

Overview

PFAS, often called 'forever chemicals', are among the most persistent and harmful pollutants found in the environment. These substances accumulate in biosolids, a nutrient-rich by-product of wastewater treatment, making it challenging to safely reuse or dispose of them. Biosolid management becomes even more complex due to the large volume produced by treatment facilities, creating a pressing need for innovative solutions that address both PFAS contamination and waste volume reduction.

This project focuses on cutting-edge approaches to treat biosolids, reduce their volume, and mitigate PFAS contamination. By joining this research, you will contribute to the development of sustainable strategies that protect the environment while improving waste management practices.

Research activities

As part of this exciting project, you will:

  • operate lab-scale reactors to test advanced biosolid treatment methods
  • investigate how PFAS persist, transform, or degrade during the treatment process
  • gain hands-on experience with innovative technologies for addressing complex environmental challenges.

Outcomes

  • Practical skills in biosolid treatment and reactor operation.
  • Analytical expertise in testing biosolid properties and tracking pollutant removal.
  • A deeper understanding of how to develop sustainable solutions for waste and pollutant management.

Keywords

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.