Oregon State University Awarded $3.28 Million for Wastewater Treatment Initiative

Oregon State University (OSU) has launched a new initiative to improve wastewater treatment methods after its College of Engineering was awarded $3.28 million. The initiative will attempt to develop new methods that cut costs and preserve energy.

The gift came from Jon and Stephanie DeVaan, and according to Scott Ashford, dean of the OSU College of Engineering, will allow for a thorough collaboration between faculty, graduate students and undergraduate students.

Specifically, the research executed by those involved with the initiative will include both chemical and biological decontamination processes for wastewater and storm water. This will be spearheaded by Tyler Radniecki, assistant professor of environmental engineering.

The focus of Radniecki’s work includes anaerobic ammonia oxidation, focusing on the removal of nitrogen through this simpler alternative to “bubbling”, as well as a focus on fats, oils, and grease.

This initiative carried out by the university will be one of the maiden projects of the university’s new Clean and Sustainable Water Technology Initiative.