Grand Opening of the Microplastic Removal Pilot at ACUA!!

On September 12, 2024, PolyGone successfully held the Microplastic Removal Pilot Grand Opening at the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA). PolyGone was honored to host guests from the government, state, academia, and community organizations. Guests had the opportunity to see the complete pilot system and educational pavilion.

During the event, PolyGone's co-founder Nathaniel Banks led a thorough pilot demonstration, explaining the Artificial Root Filter and dual array system. Guests witnessed the ascending and descending of the filter trays into the equalization basin and the system's cleaning tank.

The system contains 2 trays, while one tray is lowered into the basin the other can be cleaned and maintained. The filters will last about 6 months and will be cleaned weekly. The cleaning tank utilizes an actuator to clean the filters and collect the microplastics. PolyGone will also regularly conduct lab tests to analyze the amount of microplastics collected from ACUA. PolyGone plans to send the microplastics to an external partner for upcycling and the used filters will be sent to a proper recycling facility. Currently, PolyGone plans to have the pilot running at ACUA for a 12-month duration.

PolyGone also showcased the completed Microplastics Educational Pavilion which includes various informative exhibits. The exhibits include the types of microplastics, the impact of microplastics on the environment, and many visual examples of microplastics all around us. Each pavilion tube includes an explanation of the exhibit to help educate the public on the harms of microplastics. PolyGone plans to work with ACUA to have tours and events to continue raising awareness on microplastic pollutants.

During the event, guests heard insightful keynote addresses from ACUA President Matthew DeNafo, NOAA National Sea Grant Director Dr. Jonathon Pennock, and NJCSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft; and PolyGone co-founder Yidian Liu moderated the event. Speakers spoke on the importance of microplastic filtration technology and their relationship with PolyGone.

PolyGone thanks ACUA, NOAA, NJCSIT, New York Sea Grant, and Curbon for supporting and making the pilot possible.