Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID AR_2025_Ubeyitogullari

An innovative water treatment using pressurized CO2 and H2O2 to combat cyanotoxincontaminated water source

Institute: Arkansas
Year Established: 2025 Start Date: 2026-01-01 End Date: 2026-12-31
Total Federal Funds: $25,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $25,002

Principal Investigators: Ali Ubeyitogullari

Project Summary: Cyanobacteria are a group of bacteria that produce toxic substances called microcystins. Microcystin is a statewide issue in major water bodies, including Arkansas. Exposure to microcystin is harmful to humans and animals and may lead to serious nerve and liver damage. Thus, removing microcystin is crucial for water quality and public health. CO2 is widely available and exhibits antimicrobial properties when combined with pressure. CO2 displays high diffusivity and solubility at specific pressures and temperatures. That makes it penetrate through the cells and disrupt the cell membrane. At the same time, it facilitates the passage of bioactive compounds. Hydrogen peroxide kills cyanobacteria and deactivates microcystin. We plan to utilize CO2 and hydrogen peroxide as a novel water treatment to improve water quality. The study aims to validate the approach for removing microcystin and cyanobacteria in water. The expected results will allow further application in drinking water facilities.