Xiaocan Sun's Individual Contribution Page
Fall 2011
I was on the team of plate settler capture velocity research with Ruonan Zhang and Yizhao Du. We run cycles of experiments The research was to explore the impact of alum dose and capture velocity on the performance of sedimentation tank by running cycles of experiments. I was mainly responsible for the data collection as well as data analysis. Based on our research, we have provided the recommendations for the most efficient and economic motivated by the 'mystery of floc blanket' to join this team as it is a unique and critical factor for plant efficiency.
During the process, my logical thinking and data processing skills were sharpened. I was thrilled not only because of the research findings that provide recommendations for the optimal alum dose and capture velocity for the AguaClara plants. , but also independently contributing the concept of marginal cost which is introduced in my economic courses to approach the most efficient as well as economic solutions.
Furthermore, besides the PSCV team, I was also devoted in the economic analysis of sedimentation tank design as a capstone project. In the role of team leader, I performed leadership, documentation and innovation with my teammates. As a result, our team has created programs that essentially replace the user input request with expert guidance in the design code, promisingly helping to reduce the costs of sedimentation tank sharply.
Besides my own work, I was inspired by the smart ideas of other members of AguaClara, which enhanced my understanding of sustainable water treatment plants. My passion for research in related fields has been stimulated in a more practical sense.