Improving methods to clean groundwater contaminated with harmful chemicals

Enhancing bioremediation of groundwater co-contaminated by chlorinated volatile organic compounds and 1,4-dioxane using novel macrocyclic materials

NIH-funded research Florida State University · NIH-10975362

This study is working on new materials to help clean up groundwater that's been polluted with harmful chemicals, making it safer for drinking and better for the environment, especially for communities dealing with this issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFlorida State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tallahassee, United States)
Project IDNIH-10975362 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new materials to enhance the cleanup of groundwater polluted with chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are known carcinogens. The approach involves using innovative macrocyclic materials that can selectively absorb these contaminants and support the growth of beneficial microorganisms that can break them down. By first targeting CVOCs under anaerobic conditions and then addressing 1,4-dioxane under aerobic conditions, the project aims to create a more effective bioremediation process. This could lead to safer drinking water and healthier environments for communities affected by contamination.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living near contaminated groundwater sources, particularly those exposed to CVOCs and 1,4-dioxane.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by groundwater contamination or who live in areas without such environmental issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve groundwater quality, reducing health risks associated with exposure to harmful contaminants.

How similar studies have performed: While bioremediation has been studied extensively, this specific approach using macrocyclic materials for simultaneous treatment of CVOCs and 1,4-dioxane is novel and has not been widely tested.

Where this research is happening

Tallahassee, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.