Portable water purification system to remove bacteria and toxic metals
Innovative Point-of-Use Water Purification System: Portable, Scalable, Efficient, Easy-Use
This study is working on a handy water purification system that can clean harmful bacteria and toxic metals from natural water, making it safe for people to use, especially in emergencies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Materials Nova Limited Liability Company NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11237423 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a portable water purification system that effectively removes harmful bacteria and toxic metals like lead and mercury from natural water sources. By utilizing innovative materials such as highly-branched graphite foam and high-frequency electric fields, the project aims to develop a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for individuals and households, especially in emergency situations. The research includes building a prototype, validating its performance in laboratory settings, and demonstrating its effectiveness in real-world applications. The team is also conducting market research to ensure the product meets the needs of potential users.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals and families living in areas with limited access to clean water or those affected by water contamination.
Not a fit: Patients who already have reliable access to safe drinking water may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide safe drinking water to communities affected by contaminated water sources.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in developing water purification technologies, but this approach using graphite foam and electric fields is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- Materials Nova Limited Liability Company — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Huifeng — Materials Nova Limited Liability Company
- Study coordinator: Li, Huifeng
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.