On May 18th, 2026, the Institute of Separation Science and Technology had the pleasure of welcoming Prof. Virender Sharma from the University of Miami. Prof. Sharma is a renowned expert in water purification, particularly in the removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). He has made seminal contributions to the chemistry and environmental applications of ferrate. The idea of the scientific exchange is advancing environmental science and engineering through global collaboration.
Ferrate is an earth-abundant, iron-based molecule in which iron exists in a rare plus-six oxidation state (Fe(VI)). Because it is highly electron-depleted, it serves as an advanced, highly efficient material for both surface disinfection in hospital settings and as a powerful oxidant in water treatment. In various applications, ferrate uniquely combines three roles: disinfection, coagulation, and oxidation. It has proven highly effective at disinfecting chlorine-resistant bacteria (such as Clostridium difficile), inactivating viruses (e.g., Murine Norovirus), coagulating toxic heavy metals like arsenic and lead, and oxidizing emerging contaminants, including antibiotics, in water and urine.
We are delighted that Prof. Sharma shared his pioneering expertise during an inspiring lecture in our institute seminar, sparking great interest and fruitful discussions. His lecture was entitled “Chemistry of High-Valent Iron Species (FeIV, FeV and FeVI) in Environemental Applications.
1/3
