Dr. Tao Cheng, Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Science, Memorial University.

In many rural areas in Newfoundland and Labrador, groundwater is the main source of water for drinking and domestic use. Arsenic (As), uranium (U), and fluorine (F) are well-known water-borne contaminants, and their concentrations in some domestic water wells in the province exceed the maximum acceptable concentrations recommended by Health Canada. This proposed research is aimed at determining how the water-borne contaminants are released from solid phases to groundwater through natural processes in some aquifers in Newfoundland. The research is also intended to help in exploration of high-quality groundwater sources, and inform the development of management strategies and high-efficient, cost-effective commercial treatment units for reducing As, U, and F contamination in well water. This research will potentially contribute to the well-being of the people and reduced health-care cost to Newfoundland and Labrador.