The Economic Times

18-year-old Colorado student Natalie Muro invents wave-powered device that fights toxic algal blooms using invasive weed

A brilliant eighteen-year-old student developed a groundbreaking floating device designed to tackle toxic algal blooms. Utilizing wind-driven waves and hydrogen peroxide, this inventive solution effectively treats water. The device employs biochar derived from an invasive plant to trap dead algae and deter nutrient release. Testing results revealed a remarkable decrease in cyanobacteria and organic material accumulation, leading to her recognition as a national finalist in a top-tier science competition.