Research addressing climate change, decentralized systems, water reuse, trace organics, biosolids, and security and disaster response is also encouraged. Pre-proposals are due in WERF’s offices by 5:00 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, July 8, 2009.
The Unsolicited Research Program is a highly competitive process. WERF allocates funds so that research benefits WERF subscribers to the maximum extent. Prior research funded under the program includes an array of innovative research:
— Anaerobic membrane bioreactors for sustainable wastewater treatment.
— Nanoparticles to reduce odor and improve dewaterability of biosolids.
— Methane emissions from wastewater treatment and collection systems.
— Nitrogen gas emissions from wastewater treatment facilities.
— Indicators for pathogens in sewage sludge.
— Nitrifying microbial fuel cells for wastewater treatment.
— E-beam technology to disinfect and stabilize biosolids.
“The Unsolicited Research Program opens the door wide to innovative research ideas that might not be covered under WERF’s current research efforts, says Dr. John B. Barber of Eastman Chemical Company. It’s a real win-win for WERF subscribers and researchers alike.” Barber is vice-chair of WERF’s Research Council and committee chair for the 2009 Unsolicited Research Program.
