Professor Who Fought the 'Monster' in Water Resources Becomes Top Scientist

Ministry of Science and ICT Selects Professor Lee Chang-ha of Seoul National University as September Scientist of the Month
Recognized for Contributions to Advanced Oxidation Technology for Purifying Emerging Pollutants

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] The 2006 film "The Host," which attracted 10 million viewers, brought joy to the public but also left a significant issue regarding the management of "new types of pollutants." However, various pollutants still discarded out of ignorance or malice in homes and industrial sites continue to create numerous "monsters" threatening our lives. Professor Lee Chang-ha of Seoul National University, selected as the "Scientist of the Month" for September, is a scientist seeking ways to combat these "monsters" in water resources.

Professor Lee developed an advanced water treatment simulator capable of effectively processing new water pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals like antibiotics and pesticide components, which are difficult to decompose with existing purification technologies. Over 70 million types of chemicals are distributed worldwide, and many water treatment plants are adopting advanced oxidation technologies to remove them effectively. This water treatment technology generates hydroxyl radicals, powerful oxidants, in water to oxidatively decompose refractory organic pollutants. However, the relationship between water quality factors such as the type and concentration of natural organic matter and water temperature is complex for each treated water source, limiting efficient treatment.

Professor Lee emphasized that accurate removal prediction of target pollutants is necessary for designing and optimizing advanced oxidation technology processes. He enhanced oxidation process technology using a chemical kinetic model and an artificial intelligence-based simulator. Based on a database of oxidant exposure amounts obtained through experiments under various conditions, he developed a chemical kinetic model that accurately predicts pollutant decomposition. Subsequent research added three-dimensional quantitative data on the characteristics of natural organic matter and improved the model using machine learning techniques, achieving over 90% accuracy and reliability. These research results were internationally recognized, published in the international journals "Water Research" in February 2020 and "Environmental Science and Technology" in January 2021, respectively.

Professor Lee stated, "Solving environmental pollution problems caused by chemistry through chemistry is the most responsible and meaningful work as a researcher." He added, "Recently, many new graduate students have joined the laboratory, making the research more vibrant. I will continue to devote myself to research for the advancement of environmental engineering in Korea."

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