ISTC News Highlights

Microplastic contamination found in common source of groundwater, researchers report

by Lois Yoksoulian - Physical Sciences Editor of U of I News Bureau

Photo by Fred Zwicky

Microplastics contaminate the world's surface waters, yet scientists have only just begun to explore their presence in groundwater systems. A new study is the first to report microplastics in fractured limestone aquifers – a groundwater source that accounts for 25 percent of the global drinking water supply.

Team converts wet biological waste to diesel-compatible fuel

by Diana Yates - Life Science Editor of U of I News Bureau

Photo by L. Brian Stauffer

In a step toward producing renewable engine fuels that are compatible with existing diesel fuel infrastructure, researchers report they can convert wet biowaste, such as swine manure and food scraps, into a fuel that can be blended with diesel and that shares diesel’s combustion efficiency and emissions profile.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Efficiency Program Offered

The Illinois EPA Office of Energy is teaming up with ISTC and the U of I’s Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) to help municipalities reduce the cost of wastewater treatment. ISTC and SEDAC will be providing free energy usage assessments. Find out how you can save energy and money in your wastewater treatment plant by visiting our informational page and applying for a site visit.