News

In a recent study at WEST Center, researchers Aidan Foster and Dr. Ian Pepper examined the potential for magnetic fields to reduce chlorine demand in water disinfection.  Findings are especially significant as they can reduce costs for homeowners and commercial pools.

By Tony Davis, Arizona Daily Star

Researchers at University of Arizona WEST Center are developing an early warning system for the coronavirus - testing wastewater.

By UArizona Institute for Energy Solutions

HOT water-energy technology for inland desalination by UArizona researchers, including two WEST faculty, wins DOE RAPID award.

With advanced laboratory capabilities and expertise in Coronavirus research, WEST initiated an monitoring program in March 2020 to allow Coronavirus sewage surveillance. Sewage monitoring allows communities to evaluate the presence of the virus and ensure safety of wastewater treatment workers.

By Rosemary Brandt, UA News
As the novel coronavirus pandemic continues, UArizona researchers at WEST Center are evaluating the potential of antiviral surface coatings in continued defense against the environmental spread of viruses.

UA WEST and researchers from other institutions, along with national water sector organizations, state agencies, and businesses, are working together to help the water sector stay informed and safe, and combat the spread of coronavirus.  One important resource is the document, “Implications of COVID-19 for Water, Wastewater, and Water Reuse.”

Dr. Ian Pepper, Director of WEST Center, was awarded the distinguished Teaching and Mentoring Award for Graduate Education by the University of Arizona Graduate College in April 2020.  Congratulations to Dr. Pepper! 

By Rosemary Brandt, UANews
Researchers at the University of Arizona Water and Energy Sustainable Technology (WEST) Center are testing wastewater across the country to trace coronavirus prevalence in communities and help public health officials better prepare for the future. 

Construction of a greenhouse at WEST Center will be closely followed by the launch of a new study with importance to agriculture and public health.  The study seeks to quantify die-off rates of several pathogens associated with foodborne illnesses from leafy greens.

According to UA research, reported levels of PFAS in groundwater could be "just the tip of the iceberg," as most of the chemicals are still migrating down slowly through the soil. In a recently-published study, UA faculty in Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences demonstrate how the synthetic chemicals (PFAS) migrate through the vadose zone using a newly-developed mathematical model.