Engineering Research Equipment Grant: Physical and Optical Characterization of (Bio) Particles: Coagulation, Growth and Adhesion

This is an award to provide support for purchase of engineering research equipment. The equipment to be purchased consists of an optical particle counter, image analysis system and a fermenter coupled with a probe for measurement of dissolved-oxygen concentrations. The investigators plan to use this equipment in three separate projects. One involves oxidant interactions with mineral and bio-particles in promoting particle destabilization and growth during chemical coagulation. The second deals with concepts of fractals, fractal geometry and dimensions in characterizing biological aggregates and factors affecting their aggregation. The third addresses bio- colloids and conditions and factors that affect their transport in groundwater flowing through subsurface, porous media. The proposal leading to this award was submitted in response to Program Announcement NSF 87-68, Engineering Research Equipment Grants. In addition to utility of the equipment for conduct of the research outlined in the proposal, the equipment will also add to the educational capabilities of the Environmental Engineering Program at the University of Arizona.