ACUA & PolyGone Systems Announces Joint Pilot Project
3D Rendering of ACUA Pilot Deployment Site & Educational Pavilion (Photo Credits: Nathaniel Banks)
PolyGone, in collaboration with the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA), is pleased to announce a forthcoming pilot deployment in Atlantic City, located at ACUA's wastewater treatment facility.. This strategic partnership involves the utilization of PolyGone's cutting-edge microplastic filtration system, known as the Artificial Root, to complement ACUA's existing water treatment operations. By deploying PolyGone's microplastic filters along a specially designed attachment that operates both vertically and horizontally, the partnership aims to effectively capture aquatic pollutants and microplastic debris within the incoming wastewater flowing through ACUA's main pipeline.
PolyGone is actively engaged in the pilot design phase in close collaboration with ACUA's experienced staff and concurrently undertaking the construction of the requisite infrastructure to support this long-term collaboration. Multiple test trials are being conducted to fine-tune the latest iteration of PolyGone's biomimetic device, which exhibits enhanced filtration capabilities. Notable improvements include the device's ability to capture a greater number of particles through surface tension and minimized surface area coverage, increased durability when submerged in water, and reduced biofilm (bacterial) formation.
Construction and Development Undergoing in ACUA’s Wastewater Treatment Site (Photo Credits: ACUA Media & Publications Team)
Beyond the pilot deployment, this partnership goes beyond wastewater treatment by aiming to educate and inform the general public. To achieve this objective, an educational pavilion will be established at the ACUA site, providing visitors with the opportunity to witness the pilot in real-time and gain insights into the filter's operational processes. The educational pavilion will showcase meticulously crafted infographics created by PolyGone and ACUA's team. Furthermore, visitors will have the privilege of hearing firsthand from PolyGone's accomplished Co-Founders, Yidian Liu and Nathaniel Banks, as they provide comprehensive explanations of the project's inception and ultimate realization during on-site tours.
Educational Tours Hosted Year-Round by ACUA’s Team (Photo Credits: ACUA Media & Publications Team)
ACUA has been recognized for its innovation and environmental leadership and hosts an impressive number of facility tours annually, attracting a diverse range of groups from elementary, middle, and high school students to college students, professional, community, and civic organizations. This presents an abundance of educational opportunities to disseminate knowledge on microplastics and highlight the scientific methodologies employed by PolyGone in their groundbreaking research endeavors.
Pilot Test Site Location at ACUA (Photo Credits: Keeren Setokusumo)