Future Possibilities
What happens when scientists develop exciting research that can solve a major problem? There are a few possibilities...
Dr. Hinestroza and his colleagues are continuing their research to determine how this method, and the science behind it, can be applied to removing other chemical contaminants from water. Just as fiber-based nanotechnology can help eliminate harmful textiles dyes from rivers, these scientists are looking for ways to use the same technology to filter out other toxic chemicals like pesticides.
Another avenue that Dr. Hinestroza and his colleagues are investigating is the possibility of using other natural plant fibers. Fique proved the best material to use for this experiment due to its abundance in Colombia and its physical properties. Now Dr. Hinestroza is thinking about other plants native to countries, like India, which might be viable sources of fiber.
Another future challenge is to determine how this fiber technology can be used on a large scale. Dr. Hinestroza conducted his research in the lab, so how could his research be applied to clean a large body of water? As a scientist, Dr. Hinestroza conducts research that can form the basis of real-world solutions. However, it is up to engineers to develop a product using this research to clean natural bodies of water. One possibility is to create a filtration system for textile factory waste water that incorporates the treated fibers.
What do you think? How could this science be applied? Tweet us using the hashtag #nanofibers with your ideas of how we can clean up water pollution around the world using this science.