Project Overview
This group will research and develop detailed water treatment plans for our international project in the Dominican Republic. The focus will be on designing chlorination and reverse osmosis systems, building on past projects like Pueblo Nuevo, which used unpressurized chlorine pellets in a top-of-tank treatment system. Students will create detailed engineering plans and an implementation strategy, considering aspects such as feasibility, cost, and long-term maintenance. Students will meet with environmental engineering professors and the Lehigh Valley Professional chapter. Educational workshops will be developed to train the community on water quality, hygiene, and system maintenance. The final deliverables will include technical reports, system schematics, and a community training program to ensure lasting impact.
Water Quality Challenges
The community faces various water quality issues that pose health risks and require effective treatment solutions. Our team conducts comprehensive water quality assessments to identify specific contaminants and treatment needs.
Common Water Quality Issues
- Bacterial and microbial contamination
- High turbidity and suspended particles
- Chemical contaminants and heavy metals
- pH imbalances and mineral content
- Seasonal variations in water quality
Treatment Objectives
- Remove harmful pathogens and bacteria
- Reduce turbidity and improve water clarity
- Address chemical contamination concerns
- Ensure consistent water quality standards
- Implement sustainable treatment processes
Treatment Technologies
Our team evaluates and designs appropriate treatment systems based on local conditions, available resources, and community capacity for operation and maintenance.
Primary Treatment Options
- Slow sand filtration systems
- Chlorination and disinfection
- Sedimentation and clarification
- Activated carbon filtration
- UV disinfection systems
Design Considerations
- Local availability of materials and components
- Community technical capacity and training needs
- Operating costs and financial sustainability
- Maintenance requirements and spare parts
- Integration with distribution and storage systems
Community Engagement
We work closely with community members to ensure treatment solutions are culturally appropriate, technically feasible, and sustainable. Training programs are developed to build local capacity for system operation and maintenance.
Quality Assurance
- Regular water quality testing and monitoring
- Treatment efficiency verification
- System performance optimization
- Compliance with health and safety standards
Health Impact
Effective water treatment directly improves community health by reducing waterborne diseases, improving nutrition, and supporting overall well-being and development.
Educational Component
Students gain hands-on experience in water treatment design, environmental health, and international development while developing practical skills in engineering problem-solving and community engagement.
Join Our Team
Students interested in environmental engineering, public health, water chemistry, and international development are encouraged to participate in this vital project that directly impacts community health and well-being.