10/06/2025
Texas Teens Make Waves with Microplastic Filter!
Several reports confirm that 17-year-olds Victoria Ou and Justin Huang from The Woodlands, Texas, have invented a tiny but powerful device that removes microplastics from water using sound waves.
Their compact system can trap up to 94% of tiny plastic pollutants, including polystyrene and polyethylene, without using chemicals or traditional filters.
The innovation was showcased at the 2024 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles, where the teens won the prestigious Gordon E.
Moore Award for Positive Outcomes for Future Generations, along with a $50,000 prize. Their device works by generating an acoustic pressure field that captures microplastic particles while letting clean water flow through, a simple yet groundbreaking approach to fighting water pollution.
Inspired by a visit to a local water treatment plant, Victoria and Justin hope to scale their invention to help communities worldwide. Their work not only promises cleaner water but also raises awareness about microplastic pollution and its impact on the environment and human health.
This teen innovation proves that even small ideas can make a big difference!
