ARMY AL&T
so complicated? It’s really a question not of what, but where, the testing has to occur. According to Walker, current methods of “detecting biological and chemical contaminants down to the levels of drinking water standards requires sophisticated labora- tory equipment that is complicated to operate and not suitable for use in the field.”
While advancements in technologies like MEMS have enabled the miniaturization of bench-top analytical equipment typically used for analyzing water, he stated, “these technologies have not advanced to the point yet that they have been transitioned to the field or approved by regulatory agencies like the EPA [Environ- mental Protection Agency] or Army Public Health Command.”
Succeeding at identifying and building an accurate and reliable mobile water detection capability promises numerous potential applications, including assisting victims in the aftermath of natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, floods and tornado strikes. Te GVSC and Wayne State partnership will begin by focusing on the unique needs of the Soldier in the field, Walker
explained. Tat means finding ways to detect harmful bacteria and chemical agents in the field at two points: 1) Untreated source water to ensure that the most suitable source is selected; and 2) Treated product water to verify that the water is safe to drink.
Te strategy will be to build on current research in academia, industry and other government labs to develop rapid technol- ogies for identifying emerging contaminants in expeditionary water purification. For example, Walker explained, “Te use of advanced membrane testing and evaluation, organic carbon anal- ysis and novel techniques for continuous monitoring will provide a more effective and efficient means of detecting chemical and biological contaminants,” which could include anything from nitrogen, metals and pesticides to bacteria, viruses and parasites.
Additionally, the project will tackle new threats, including Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) and poly- fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), “to ensure their removal and enable water reuse,” Walker said.
DISASTER RELIEF
Construction vehicles remove debris from a bridge damaged by Hurricane Helene near Chimney Rock, North Carolina on Oct. 10, 2024. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers coordinates with a contractor to deliver generators provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency at critical facilities, such as temporary shelters and water resource stations. (Photo by Michel Sauret, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)
https://asc.ar my.mil
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