9702356 Yiacoumi This is an award to provide support for research on obtaining a better understanding than now exists of the influence of sorption rates on the surface charge and flocculation rates of colloidal particles suspended in water. This investigator's research involves experimental studies to assist in development of mathematical models that can be used to predict the behavior of particles derived from weathering processes in colloidal aqueous suspension and particles formed during water and wastewater treatment processes. The proposal leading to this award was submitted in response to NSF 96-115, "Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program." As such, this award also provides support for the continuation of this investigator's early development as an educator. Her education plan involves developing new courses that emphasize mathematical modeling of environmental systems, incorporation of research results into courses, short courses for industrial researchers and practitioners and student participation in experimental work at a National Laboratory. Results of this project are expected to provide insights into sources and behavior of particles in natural waters. The mathematical models that result from this research may find use in engineering design of processes to remove particles from suspension in water, treatment of wastewater prior to discharge to the environment and in processes for deliberate manufacture of particles. ***
