This project tested the applicability of the various Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) models, and reviewed the ways in which QMRA risk estimates can be improved or validated and ways in which user-friendly QMRA models can be deployed in Canada.
The project aimed to develop two technologies in parallel: a biological remediation system for arsenic-contaminated mine waste, and a chemical treatment system for small drinking water systems.
While detecting bacterial contaminants or measuring levels of regulated chemicals is relatively easy and routinely done, current test indicators do not detect viruses or parasites, and these continue to be the source of numerous waterborne outbreaks. This project aimed to provide partners with data for regulatory purposes and risk evaluation.
This project investigated the use of novel molecularly imprinted (MIP) and non-imprinted (NIP) polymer particles as a treatment method for removing emerging compounds from water and wastewater.
The goal of this research is to begin building regional networks encompassing small system operators and Chief Administrative Officers, and to identify the specific training gaps and communication needs for operators of small systems, ranging from Information Technology limitations to a lack of fundamental math and water chemistry knowledge.
Source water protection is important for drinking water safety, as well as for ensuring adequate quality and quantity of water for the environment, industry and recreation. Dr. de Loë’s team sought to improve understanding of key knowledge gaps related to water governance, and to ultimately improve source water protection processes and outcomes in Canada.
With a rapidly growing urban population, there has been a subsequent rise in municipal wastewater effluent discharge, resulting in multiple challenges for urban waterways, particularly when it comes to pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs).
In partnership with the Province of Alberta, this project aims to evaluate the magnitude and likelihood of wildfire occurrence in source water regions in Alberta and assess the impact of these wildfires to downstream water utilities.
Objectives of this project, were to: 1) Identify the concentrations and chemical species of arsenic in well water, and the effectiveness of home treatment devices in removing arsenic; 2) Identify the impacts of the Quinsam Mine, British Columbia on the local aquatic system; 3) Identify the chemical species (forms) of vanadium in oil sands process-affected [...]
The project team, led by Dr. Xing-Fang Li, has developed highly sensitive analytical techniques enabling the detection of new toxic Disinfection Biproducts (DBP's), and techniques to remove DBP precursors.