Easton Perkins's research may lead to new applications of the volcanic rock in stormwater treatment.
In December, civil engineering master's student Easton Perkins graduated after completing research on the phosphorus adsorption capacity of scoria, a lightweight volcanic rock found in central Utah and other places.
The research was motivated by a need to find a natural material to remove phosphorus, a nutrient and pollutant, from stormwater runoff by incorporating the material into urban landscapes. Perkins tested multiple batches of scoria at varying phosphorus concentrations and produced graphs of their adsorption performance.
Perkins says the research "offers insights for sustainable water quality management and nutrient cycling in urban landscapes."
Drs. Rob Sowby, Gus Williams, and Phil Allen advised the work. The team is preparing to publish the results.