Full title of your research work
Detection and Characterization of Microplastics in Wastewater Treatment Plants in the Greater Montreal Area.
Popularized title of your research work
Microplastics in Wastewater Treatment Plants.
Short introduction
My name is Elvis Wireko Boampong, and I am in the third year of my PhD in Chemical Engineering, under the supervision of Professors Abdellah Ajji, Marie-Claude Heuzey and Dominique Claveau-Mallet. My thesis focuses on understanding the presence, fate and risk of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants in the Geater Montreal Area.
What method did you use to explain your thesis in 3 minutes?
I used everyday day analogy to explain my thesis by linking common daily activities like the plastic use and washing clothes and how they release microplastics. I then explained how these tiny plastics move through our homes to the wastewater treatment facilities and why they are difficult to be removed by these systems. Also, I introduced my research approach, highlighting the novelty and relevance. I concluded by emphasizing how understanding the fate of microplastics in wastewater is important in reducing its exposure and disastrous effect to aquatic organisms and the environment.
How was your research topic inspired?
My project was inspired by the need to understand how wastewater treatment plants in Montreal contribute to microplastics pollution in the environment and how well the pollution, if any, could be controlled. The project will initiate the development of strategies or treatment process to control any possible microplastics pollution. This research helps strengthen one of society’s most important environmental safeguards, protecting our water before these tiny plastics reach our ecosystems and, ultimately, our own food and water supply.
If you could dedicate your research to someone (past, present, or future), who would it be and why?
I would dedicate my research to my family. Their constant support, encouragement, and sacrifices taught me resilience and perseverance, especially during challenging moments of this journey which has kept me pushing forward, and staying committed to this research.
Three keywords to define your research work
Microplastics, Pollution, Wastewater
