Translating Molecular Science to Practical Application in Natural Systems & Engineered Science, Friday, 2/21, 12 pm in CO 219

CEE Seminar by Professor Lynn Katz, 2024-25 AEESP Distinguished Lecturer.

Abstract: Environmental contamination from anthropogenic activities is often defined by the presence of either legacy or emerging contaminants. Superfund sites associated with legacy contaminants were the focus of environmental remediation activities in the twentieth century. Now, "emerging contaminants" have captured the focus of the environmental community. However, the distinction between legacy and merging contaminants is often blurred, especially for metals and metalloids, because once these species enter the environment, they cannot be destroyed and often re-emerge. In this seminar, we will explore several examples in which molecular level insights from spectroscopic and/or computational studies have been used to guide modeling of metal ion sorption in water treatment processes, predict ion-pairing in membrane systems, and describe metal(oid) processes in contaminated sediments in mining impacted lakes. Through these examples, we will demonstrate how increased understanding at the molecular level can guide contaminant remediation and treatment options.