This is an award to provide support for research on the role of metal- organic interactions that result in sorption of metals and organic compounds on mineral surfaces. These processes are of central importance in the transport of metals in groundwater aquifers, in the removal of contaminants in water treatment process and in the formation of soil. The award is in accord with conditions contained in NSF 91-112, Young Investigator Awards FY 1992 Program Guidelines for Submission of Nominations. Factors that control the transport and fate of pollutants in aqueous systems are of interest because of the role they play in controlling the movement and fate of the pollutants through aquifers, in treatment process and natural systems. Results of this research are expected to be applied in engineering design of water supply, water treatment and pollution abatement systems.
