Mariam Ouda - العربية

Dr. Mariam Ouda developed a modular ultrafiltration membrane based on MXene that combines coagulation and filtration in a single unit. By applying a low electrical voltage, the system releases coagulation ions on-site while generating electrokinetic forces that prevent contamination and maintain high permeability. This enables low-energy, chemical-free pretreatment, directly compatible with existing desalination and wastewater treatment processes.

Her motivation for developing this innovation stemmed from the global challenge of water scarcity and the observation that conventional multi-unit pretreatment systems limit efficiency. Exploring the exceptional properties of two-dimensional materials led her to conceive of a compact membrane system that integrates multiple pretreatment steps into a self-cleaning electrochemical unit.

Laboratory testing of her invention demonstrates its significant potential for application in desalination, industrial wastewater, oil streams, and decentralized treatment environments. In the future, Maryam will work on expanding the system and accelerating the verification process under realistic operating conditions to include larger units equipped with integrated sensors and exploring licensing pathways or startups with the aim of deploying integrated, low-energy, and scalable pretreatment solutions in water-scarce and underserved areas.