The current global interest in environmental sustainability serves as an excellent segue to engaging undergraduate students in chemical research and the use of chemical research to guide environmental policy. Recently our department has undertaken several undergraduate research projects of this nature, ranging from the chemistry of hydroponic systems to acid mine drainage to water quality on campus. This project focuses on the design and construction of a simulated bog/wetland to quantitatively study the use of native plants to remediate aqueous nitrate. <i>Justicia Americana </i>was selected for study as this species has demonstrated the capacity to absorb nitrates from the environment and is native to the Appalachian region. Nitrate concentrations were analyzed using a Lamotte Nitrate Testing kit in conjunction with Beer’s Law concepts. Currently our municipal wastewater treatment plant discharges its effluent, containing high concentration of nitrates, directly into the Ohio River. Ultimately, this project will provide guidance to the treatment plant concerning the development of bog/wetland to remediate its effluent nitrates.

Using phytoremediation to spur student interest in chemical research

255th National Meeting (2018)

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