Characteristic Determination of Chiral Illicit Drugs and Their Occurrence In the Wastewater Treatment Plant
Kelly Zierdt
Co-Presenters: Aseel Albibi
College: The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology
Major: Medical Laboratory Science
Faculty Research Mentor: Mingjing Sun
Abstract:
Chiral illicit drugs (CIDs) are emerging contaminants of significant concern in water systems worldwide. While these compounds are often quantified as whole molecules, their enantiomeric forms—distinct mirror-image configurations—are less frequently separated and analyzed at the chiral level. Among the most prevalent chiral illicit drugs are stimulant substances, particularly those of the amphetamine-type. Routine enantiomeric separation and analysis are essential for advancing our understanding of their environmental impact.