Gold nanoparticles could revolutionize clean drinking water, study finds
By dominguez // 2025-11-18
Copy
 
  • Researchers at UCF are developing a gold-coated nickel metal-organic framework (MOF) to neutralize toxic microcystins from harmful algal blooms (HABs) in water.
  • The gold-enhanced MOF uses sunlight to trigger a chemical reaction that oxidizes and destroys microcystins, offering a sustainable water treatment solution.
  • HABs, fueled by nutrient runoff and warming temperatures, pose severe health risks, including liver damage and respiratory issues.
  • Backed by a $75,000 EPA grant, this research builds on prior work and aims for scalable, eco-friendly water treatment.
  • If successful, this gold-based method could provide a cost-effective, chemical-free alternative to conventional water purification, addressing contamination crises worldwide.
Access to clean drinking water remains a pressing global challenge, particularly in regions plagued by toxic algal blooms. Now, researchers at the University of Central Florida (UCF) have discovered that gold—long prized for its beauty and value—could play a pivotal role in purifying contaminated water. Backed by a $75,000 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the team is developing an innovative water treatment method using gold-coated nanomaterials to neutralize harmful toxins produced by algae. The project, led by environmental engineering professor Woo Hyoung Lee and materials science professor Yang Yang, focuses on creating a gold-decorated nickel metal-organic framework (MOF) capable of breaking down microcystins—dangerous toxins released by harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms, which thrive in warm freshwater environments like Florida's lakes, pose serious health risks, including liver damage, kidney failure and severe allergic reactions.

A novel approach to water purification

MOFs are highly porous metal structures used in various scientific applications, from hydrogen storage to drug delivery. In their study, Lee and his colleagues are leveraging the photocatalytic properties of MOFs—meaning they react to sunlight—to oxidize and destroy microcystins in water. "MOFs have been used as a catalyst for many research areas such as hydrogen storage, carbon capture, electrocatalysis, biological imaging and sensing, semiconductors and drug delivery systems," Lee explained in a statement. “In this project, we're using the gold-decorated nickel MOF as a photocatalyst to remove water pollutants.” The gold coating enhances the MOF's ability to absorb sunlight, triggering a chemical reaction that breaks down toxins. Doctoral students Samuel Adjei-Nimoh and Nimanyu Joshi, along with undergraduates Jennifer Hughes and Julia Going, are collaborating on the two-year study, which could provide a scalable solution for water treatment facilities.

Addressing a growing public health threat

Harmful algal blooms have become increasingly common due to nutrient runoff from agriculture, warming temperatures and stagnant water conditions. Florida, with its extensive network of lakes and waterways, has been particularly affected. In 2018, a severe red tide outbreak devastated marine life and triggered respiratory issues in coastal communities. "Clean drinking water isn't just a necessity, it's a fundamental right, especially for Floridians who rely on our abundant lakes and waterways," Lee emphasized. "By leveraging the innovative nanotechnology for water treatment, we're not only removing toxins but also safeguarding the health and well-being of our communities, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all." This marks Lee's second consecutive year receiving funding from the EPA's People, Prosperity, and the Planet (P3) program, which supports student-led sustainability projects. In 2023, his team developed an early-detection biosensor for microcystins. As explained by BrightU.AI's Enoch engine, microcystins not only cause significant harm to human health but could also devastate aquatic ecosystems by killing fish and disrupting food chains. The threat they pose to humans and marine animals warrants their immediate removal from bodies of water and sources of drinking water.

Broader implications for water safety

The EPA's P3 program, now in its 21st year, awarded $1.2 million to 16 university teams nationwide in 2024. Other funded projects include efforts to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—toxic "forever chemicals"—from water supplies and improve materials recycling. Chris Frey, assistant administrator for the EPA's Office of Research and Development, praised the initiative: "I commend these hardworking and creative students and look forward to seeing the results of their innovative projects that are addressing some of our thorniest sustainability and environmental challenges." If successful, UCF's gold-based purification system could offer a cost-effective, energy-efficient alternative to conventional water treatment methods. Unlike chemical disinfectants, which can produce harmful byproducts, photocatalytic oxidation leaves no residual contaminants. As algal blooms and industrial pollution continue to threaten water supplies worldwide, breakthroughs like this highlight the importance of investing in sustainable solutions. For now, the UCF team remains focused on refining their technology, proving that sometimes, the key to a cleaner future lies in one of humanity's oldest treasures: gold. Learn the benefits of drinking gold and silver water by watching this video. This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: StudyFinds.org UCF.edu BrightU.ai Brighteon.com
Copy