University in Queretaro develops nanofibers for water treatment

Nanofibers created as part of a research project at the Santa Rosa Jauregui Polytechnic University were used to develop a prototype filtering material for water treatment, validating the feasibility of using recycled plastic waste in environmental and technological applications.

Researcher and professor Susana Meraz Davila, from the university’s basic sciences department, explained that her research involves using electrospinning equipment to produce multifunctional nanofibers:

“I have recently been working with recycled materials such as plastic bottles and Styrofoam. We are developing PET and polystyrene into filters for water treatment.”

The project’s focus stems from her work in the agro-industrial sector. Meraz notes that the applications of these nanofibers are not limited to agro-industry; they are virtually limitless.

Anticipating a potential crisis due to water scarcity in Queretaro, the researcher noted that the fibers would be one of several materials that help filter water; she also encouraged industry and the private sector to invest in this research.