Immobilized bio-based aerogel photocatalysts for degradation of organic pollutants in water

This project will develop new bio-based materials to support the removal of persistent organic pollutants from water using light-driven processes. The research will focus on creating porous, plant-protein-based aerogels that can act as stable platforms for immobilizing photocatalytic materials, making them easier to handle, recover, and reuse in water treatment applications. By combining these bio-derived supports with light-active and conductive components, the project aims to improve the efficiency and durability of pollutant degradation under laboratory conditions. The work will contribute to the development of more sustainable and reusable water treatment materials and will facilitate the transfer of advanced materials fabrication and characterization techniques back to the Canadian home institution. This knowledge exchange will strengthen research capacity, support future collaborative projects, and provide advanced training that benefits both the host institution and the Mitacs Globalink program.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ehssan Koupaie

Student:

Partner:

ETH Zurich

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Queen's University

Program: