Latest News
Latest News
This summer, GC-CAMP host the first NSF REU site "Interdisciplinary Research to Address Microplastics in the Gulf Coast Region" at the University of South Alabama! The program officially kicked off on May 20, 2025. From over 200 applicants nationwide, ten outstanding undergraduate students were selected to spend 10 weeks on our beautiful campus conducting research that tackles the urgent issue of microplastic pollution. A big thank-you to our amazing mentors and graduate students for the invaluable guidance and support! We’re also grateful to our collaborators and supporters who made so many cohort activities possible. See you next summer!
Jianqiao Song, one of our PhD student researchers, presented his research at the 2025 Alabama-Mississippi Water Joint Annual Conference. His presentation, titled "Optimizing Microplastic Removal Using Biochar," focused on developing sustainable methods for enhancing microplastic remediation in water treatment systems. The research explores the use of biochar as an environmentally friendly material to improve the removal efficiency of microplastics from contaminated water sources. Jianqiao’s work was well-received by attendees, generating positive feedback and thoughtful questions during the discussion session. His contribution aligns with our broader mission of advancing innovative solutions to mitigate microplastic pollution across aquatic environments.
It was an educating and inspiring experience at the seminar on "Anionic Nanoplastic Contaminants Promote Parkinson’s Disease–Associated α-Synuclein Aggregation," hosted in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Center for Sustainable Engineering (ICSE). Professor Zhiyong Liu shared groundbreaking research on how environmental nanoplastics may influence the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. His presentation highlighted the potential cellular mechanisms by which anionic nanoplastics interact with neuronal systems, promoting the aggregation of α-synuclein, a critical hallmark of Parkinson’s disease. The seminar brought together students, faculty, and researchers across disciplines to explore the intersection of environmental pollution and human health.
We are pleased to announce our upcoming seminar featuring Professor Zhiyong Liu, a distinguished expert in neurodegenerative disease research. The seminar, titled "Anionic Nanoplastic Contaminants Promote Parkinson’s Disease–Associated α-Synuclein Aggregation," will explore emerging research on how nanoplastic pollution may contribute to the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease. Professor Liu will present groundbreaking findings on the interaction between environmental nanoplastics and α-synuclein aggregation, a key molecular event in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s. His research highlights the critical intersection of environmental sustainability and human health. The event is hosted in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Center for Sustainable Engineering (ICSE), reflecting a growing commitment to addressing the global impact of microplastic contamination. To learn more about the event and how to attend, click the here.
We are pleased to announce our upcoming seminar featuring Professor Zhiyong Liu, a distinguished expert in neurodegenerative disease research. The seminar, titled "Anionic Nanoplastic Contaminants Promote Parkinson’s Disease–Associated α-Synuclein Aggregation," will explore emerging research on how nanoplastic pollution may contribute to the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease. Professor Liu will present groundbreaking findings on the interaction between environmental nanoplastics and α-synuclein aggregation, a key molecular event in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s. His research highlights the critical intersection of environmental sustainability and human health. The event is hosted in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Center for Sustainable Engineering (ICSE), reflecting a growing commitment to addressing the global impact of microplastic contamination. To learn more about the event and how to attend, click the here.
Congratulations to our outstanding undergraduate students at the University of South Alabama, Sky Anderson (Civil Engineering) and Carly Charbonnet (Mechanical Engineering), for their remarkable achievements at the ASEE Southeastern Section Conference at Mississippi State University, March 9 to 11, 2025. Sky won 1st place, and Carly won 3rd place in the "Individual Undergraduate Research Division" category. They competed against more than 30 posters in the Southeastern region. Both students are conducting microplastics-related research as part of the Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastics Pollution (GC-CAMP). Sky presented on the "Detection of Microplastics in Wastewater Treatment Facilities on the Gulf Coast" while Carly's presentation was on "Evaluation of the Feasibility of Incorporating Waste Plastics into Asphalt Pavement"
Congratulations to our outstanding undergraduate students at the University of South Alabama, Sky Anderson (Civil Engineering) and Carly Charbonnet (Mechanical Engineering), for their remarkable achievements at the ASEE Southeastern Section Conference at Mississippi State University, March 9 to 11, 2025. Sky won 1st place, and Carly won 3rd place in the "Individual Undergraduate Research Division" category. They competed against more than 30 posters in the Southeastern region. Both students are conducting microplastics-related research as part of the Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastics Pollution (GC-CAMP). Sky presented on the "Detection of Microplastics in Wastewater Treatment Facilities on the Gulf Coast" while Carly's presentation was on "Evaluation of the Feasibility of Incorporating Waste Plastics into Asphalt Pavement"
Publication Alert! We are pleased to announce our latest publication, "State-of-the-Art Review on the Principles of Compatibility and Chemical Compatibilizers for Recycled Plastic-Modified Asphalt Binders." This work addresses the critical challenge of compatibility in repurposing microplastics for asphalt binder modification. The review explores existing techniques for enhancing compatibility, evaluates their effectiveness, and examines their impact on the rheological performance of microplastic-modified asphalt binders. By providing insights into compatibilizer selection, this publication promote the repurposing of microplastic, inform decision on the selection of compatibilizer for microplastic-modified asphalt binder and supports the development of more sustainable and high-performance asphalt materials. Read the full publication here
Publication Alert! We are pleased to announce our latest publication, "State-of-the-Art Review on the Principles of Compatibility and Chemical Compatibilizers for Recycled Plastic-Modified Asphalt Binders." This work addresses the critical challenge of compatibility in repurposing microplastics for asphalt binder modification. The review explores existing techniques for enhancing compatibility, evaluates their effectiveness, and examines their impact on the rheological performance of microplastic-modified asphalt binders. By providing insights into compatibilizer selection, this publication promote the repurposing of microplastic, inform decision on the selection of compatibilizer for microplastic-modified asphalt binder and supports the development of more sustainable and high-performance asphalt materials. Read the full publication here
GC-CAMP is excited to announce a summer internship through the NSF REU Site at the University of South Alabama, aimed at tackling microplastic pollution in the Gulf Coast. This opportunity is open to undergraduates from various fields, providing a $7,000 stipend along with housing and transportation. The program includes hands-on research, mentorship, networking, and cultural events from May 19 to August 1, 2025. Interested students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and can apply by February 28, 2025. For more details click here.
GC-CAMP is excited to announce a summer internship through the NSF REU Site at the University of South Alabama, aimed at tackling microplastic pollution in the Gulf Coast. This opportunity is open to undergraduates from various fields, providing a $7,000 stipend along with housing and transportation. The program includes hands-on research, mentorship, networking, and cultural events from May 19 to August 1, 2025. Interested students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and can apply by February 28, 2025. For more details click here.
On November 19, 2024, four of our research students, Vyoma Jani, Pratik Neupane, Prajwal Chaudhary, and Jianqiao Song, made significant contributions at the Bays and Bayous Symposium in Biloxi, Mississippi. They delivered two engaging presentations and showcased two detailed posters, sharing our latest research findings. Alongside their presentations, our booth for the Gulf Coast Environmental Equity Center (GCEEC) garnered substantial interest, enabling us to further discuss our impactful projects and ongoing efforts to enhance the Gulf Coast environment.
On November 19, 2024, four of our research students, Vyoma Jani, Pratik Neupane, Prajwal Chaudhary, and Jianqiao Song, made significant contributions at the Bays and Bayous Symposium in Biloxi, Mississippi. They delivered two engaging presentations and showcased two detailed posters, sharing our latest research findings. Alongside their presentations, our booth for the Gulf Coast Environmental Equity Center (GCEEC) garnered substantial interest, enabling us to further discuss our impactful projects and ongoing efforts to enhance the Gulf Coast environment.
At the 2024 Restore America's Estuaries Summit in Washington, DC, from October 6-10, the Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastic Pollution presented its latest research. The team, represented by Dr. Shenghua Wu, discussed their innovative, interdisciplinary strategies to tackle microplastic pollution in the Gulf Coast region. The presentation, facilitated by an invitation from Dr. Madison Willert of NOAA, led to numerous valuable connections for the team.
At the 2024 Restore America's Estuaries Summit in Washington, DC, from October 6-10, the Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastic Pollution presented its latest research. The team, represented by Dr. Shenghua Wu, discussed their innovative, interdisciplinary strategies to tackle microplastic pollution in the Gulf Coast region. The presentation, facilitated by an invitation from Dr. Madison Willert of NOAA, led to numerous valuable connections for the team.
Researchers from our team have recently developed an advanced AI framework designed to enhance the characterization of microplastics. This new deep learning-based tool automates the processes traditionally performed manually, significantly improving the accuracy of classifying and quantifying microplastics. This innovation marks a notable advancement in the field of microplastic research. The full details of the study are available in their latest publication, which can be assessed here.
Researchers from our team have recently developed an advanced AI framework designed to enhance the characterization of microplastics. This new deep learning-based tool automates the processes traditionally performed manually, significantly improving the accuracy of classifying and quantifying microplastics. This innovation marks a notable advancement in the field of microplastic research. The full details of the study are available in their latest publication, which can be assessed here.
The latest edition of "Southern Science" features an in-depth article on our recent research into microplastics, with Dr. Shenghua Wu providing expert insights. The publication highlights our team's efforts to develop practical solutions aimed at promoting environmental sustainability in the Gulf Coast. Read the full article here.
The latest edition of "Southern Science" features an in-depth article on our recent research into microplastics, with Dr. Shenghua Wu providing expert insights. The publication highlights our team's efforts to develop practical solutions aimed at promoting environmental sustainability in the Gulf Coast. Read the full article here.
At this year's Water Environment Federation's Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC), held from October 5-9, our team enjoyed the chance to dive deep into environmental issues that hit close to home. With the collaboration with the University of South Alabama - WATERS team, we were able to engage in meaningful discussions and share our initiatives aimed at improving water quality and sustainability in the Gulf Coast region.
At this year's Water Environment Federation's Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC), held from October 5-9, our team enjoyed the chance to dive deep into environmental issues that hit close to home. With the collaboration with the University of South Alabama - WATERS team, we were able to engage in meaningful discussions and share our initiatives aimed at improving water quality and sustainability in the Gulf Coast region.
We are excited to announce the publication of "Artificial Intelligence-Empowered Collection and Characterization of Microplastics: A Review" in our latest effort to combat microplastic pollution. This review highlights how artificial intelligence is becoming an essential tool in detecting and managing microplastics across various ecosystems, posing significant risks to wildlife and human health. Our publication explores advanced AI technologies for microplastic management, enhances monitoring techniques, and discusses future research opportunities. To delve deeper into our findings, read the full review here.
We are excited to announce the publication of "Artificial Intelligence-Empowered Collection and Characterization of Microplastics: A Review" in our latest effort to combat microplastic pollution. This review highlights how artificial intelligence is becoming an essential tool in detecting and managing microplastics across various ecosystems, posing significant risks to wildlife and human health. Our publication explores advanced AI technologies for microplastic management, enhances monitoring techniques, and discusses future research opportunities. To delve deeper into our findings, read the full review here.
We are pleased to announce our recent publication, "Advancements and Regulatory Situation in Microplastics Removal from Wastewater and Drinking Water: A Comprehensive Review." This publication addresses the critical issue of microplastics in water treatment facilities, highlighting advanced detection, sampling, and removal techniques. It also highlights current policies governing microplastic levels in water, underlining the need for stronger regulations and continuous technological improvements. The review is a key resource for understanding the complex challenges microplastics pose to water safety and public health. Read the full report here.
We are pleased to announce our recent publication, "Advancements and Regulatory Situation in Microplastics Removal from Wastewater and Drinking Water: A Comprehensive Review." This publication addresses the critical issue of microplastics in water treatment facilities, highlighting advanced detection, sampling, and removal techniques. It also highlights current policies governing microplastic levels in water, underlining the need for stronger regulations and continuous technological improvements. The review is a key resource for understanding the complex challenges microplastics pose to water safety and public health. Read the full report here.
GC-CAMP unveiled two publications illustrating how microplastics can be repurposed to improve the performance of asphalt binders, marking a significant step towards both ecological sustainability and resilient infrastructure. The first study demonstrates the benefits of using microplastic-modified asphalt at high temperatures, while the second assesses modified binder resistance to cracking. These advancements highlight our commitment to converting environmental challenges into innovative solutions. Detailed findings from the studies can be accessed through the links provided for the high-temperature study here and the cracking susceptibility study here.
GC-CAMP unveiled two publications illustrating how microplastics can be repurposed to improve the performance of asphalt binders, marking a significant step towards both ecological sustainability and resilient infrastructure. The first study demonstrates the benefits of using microplastic-modified asphalt at high temperatures, while the second assesses modified binder resistance to cracking. These advancements highlight our commitment to converting environmental challenges into innovative solutions. Detailed findings from the studies can be accessed through the links provided for the high-temperature study here and the cracking susceptibility study here.
On May 14, 2024, the Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastics Pollution (GC-CAMP) hosted its 1st Annual Meeting, drawing stakeholders from across the region. This day-long event provided a comprehensive platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaborations aimed at combating microplastic pollution. Attendees, including researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders, participated in educational sessions, committee discussions, and networking opportunities focused on a range of topics from microplastic removal techniques to sensor technologies and repurposing innovations. Highlights of the day included dynamic breakout sessions, a poster exhibition, and a live demonstration of microplastic characterization.
On May 14, 2024, the Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastics Pollution (GC-CAMP) hosted its 1st Annual Meeting, drawing stakeholders from across the region. This day-long event provided a comprehensive platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaborations aimed at combating microplastic pollution. Attendees, including researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders, participated in educational sessions, committee discussions, and networking opportunities focused on a range of topics from microplastic removal techniques to sensor technologies and repurposing innovations. Highlights of the day included dynamic breakout sessions, a poster exhibition, and a live demonstration of microplastic characterization.
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