Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Environmental Engineering and Earth Science

Committee Chair/Advisor

Dr. Debora F. Rodrigues

Committee Member

Dr. David L. Freedman

Committee Member

Dr. David Ladner

Committee Member

Dr. Ezra Cates

Committee Member

Dr. Devin L. Shaffer

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical challenge in many regions, particularly in rural and low-income communities without centralized treatment systems. While point-of-use filters are widely used, most are designed to address a single issue, such as microbial contamination or heavy metals, and may lose efficiency over time due to clogging or degradation. Therefore, there is a need for simple materials capable of addressing multiple water quality concerns.

This study developed multifunctional electrospun membranes for dead-end filtration, designed to tackle several contaminants. The membranes were fabricated using cellulose nanocrystals derived from waste date seeds, combined with carbon-based materials and conductive polymers. These components were processed into thin fibrous structures through electrospinning. The incorporation of nanomaterials improved hydrophilicity, permeability, mechanical strength, and electrical conductivity.

The membranes function through a combination of physical filtration and electrochemical disinfection, enabled by applying a low voltage during operation. Performance testing demonstrated effective bacterial inactivation at low power (3V), along with significant removal of lead and improvements in key water quality parameters, including nitrate, phosphate, and turbidity.

Overall, these results highlight the potential of the developed membranes for use in low-cost, battery-powered water treatment systems, offering a practical solution to improve access to safe drinking water in resource-limited settings.

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0003-2781-8577

Download

Available for download on Monday, May 31, 2027

Share

COinS