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By Thomas Kingsley, Publishing Associate: Researcher and Writer at Save the Water™ | May 08, 2026
Edited by Kayla Douglas, Publishing Associate: Editor at Save the Water™
Researchers from Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi may have found a solution for making sustainable wastewater treatment more achievable. Many parts of the world continue to struggle with increased demand on their water supplies. Because of this, the methods we use for water treatment are becoming even more important.
Sustainable wastewater treatment is all about removing pollutants from the water so that it can be returned to the environment or reused. One of the most effective techniques today is called membrane-enabled separation. This involves forcing water through a barrier that separates contaminants and leaves them behind. However, the particles left behind can build up on the surface of the membrane or in its pores. This can lead to a variety of issues, such as:
To fix this, scientists are finding ways to improve the membranes. For example, hybrid membranes use carbon-based fillers that help stop contaminants from collecting on the membrane. These fillers can be created from many sources, but one of the best options is reusing agricultural waste.
Microalgae are microscopic organisms that live in the water and, like plants, rely on photosynthesis for food. They can be used as an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers, which are made from chemicals. The material that’s left over can be turned into a kind of charcoal known as biochar. This biochar has a large surface area and is full of tiny holes that are perfect for removing contaminants from water.
The researchers from Khalifa University created membranes by adding biochar from microalgae to cellulose acetate. Cellulose acetate is a biodegradable bioplastic made from cotton or wood pulp. It’s used as a synthetic fiber in many things, such as cigarette filters and playing cards.
When running their tests, the researchers compared their hybrid filters to “pristine filters” made of only cellulose acetate. The hybrid membranes had a higher rate of water flowing through them, completely removed bacteria, and were better at removing natural organic matter (NOM). NOM refers to the compounds that result from breaking down the remains of plants and animals. When they seep into the water supply, they can cause problems for water purification.
The researchers then tested the membrane with municipal wastewater. It continued to work at a rate similar to what was found in the lab. The membrane was also effective at preventing material from building up on the surface. This means that it wouldn’t need to be replaced as often, making it a good option for sustainable wastewater treatment.
The researchers’ next steps are to focus on long-term testing and evaluate the cost of developing the membranes on a bigger scale. For now, though, their work looks like it has the potential to make sustainable wastewater treatment more attainable and efficient.
Save the Water™ is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to conduct research to identify and remove harmful contaminants in water and to raise public awareness about water contamination and its health impacts.
