MCEC Presents Engineering Solutions for Rural Resilience at UMS Rural Issues Symposium

November 18, 2024 Uncategorized

Maine College of Engineering and Computing (MCEC) joined other University of Maine System collaborators at the inaugural Rural Issues Symposium in Orono, Maine. This conference focused on advancing rural resilience and revitalization through community-engaged research. MCEC faculty and students contributed their expertise and projects, highlighting solutions to some of Maine’s most pressing environmental, economic, and social challenges.

Presentations from MCEC Faculty and Students:

  1. 3D-Printed Culvert Diffusers for Rural Transportation Resiliency
    MCEC researchers Sunil Bhandari and Roberto A. Lopez-Anido explored 3D-printed diffuser technology to address culvert washouts caused by increased stormwater discharge. These washouts not only disrupted transportation but also hindered emergency services. Their innovative trenchless rehabilitation technology reinforced existing culverts, helping prevent washouts during heavy rain. This technology was prototyped in Thorndike, Maine, and successfully implemented in Newfields, New Hampshire. Future collaborations with MaineDOT aimed to bring this sustainable solution to more rural areas.
  2. PFAS-Free Paper for Agricultural Sustainability
    Researchers Muhammad Ahmad Ishaq and Xiaoxiao Zhao developed PFAS-free omniphobic paper to replace PFAS in agricultural and food applications. PFAS, known for its durability, posed significant health and environmental risks due to its persistence and bioaccumulation. The new PFAS-free paper provided water- and oil-resistant properties without the toxic effects, making it a viable alternative for use in food packaging and agricultural applications. This project demonstrated MCEC’s commitment to environmental health and sustainable materials for rural applications.
  3. Undergraduate Civil Engineering Projects Across Maine
    Led by Edwin Nagy, MCEC’s civil engineering students partnered with nearly 50 towns and numerous non-profits statewide over the past decade. These projects ranged from stormwater mitigation and coastal resilience to wastewater infrastructure and bridge replacements. New efforts focused on involving second- and third-year students with their hometowns to enhance outreach and mentorship for high school students, promoting engineering careers and developing essential connections between MCEC and Maine’s rural communities.

Learn more about the Rural Issues Symposium here.