Tolulope Odimayomi
Track
Research Frontiers
Faculty Mentors
Marc Edwards
Professor
Amy Pruden
Professor
Research Focus
Water pipes in buildings throughout the United States span millions of miles. While it is typically assumed that pipes prevent external contaminants from entering drinking water, porous plastic pipes are increasingly gaining popularity due to their durability, flexibility, and ease of installation. Porous plastic pipes naturally allow gas transfer into and out of drinking water. My proposed project will investigate the implications of gas transfer through plastic pipes as a pathway to chemical and biological contamination of potable water by quantifying the diffusion rate of common volatile compounds through commercially available plastic pipe materials and systematically examining the role of permeation on pathogen growth and proliferation within pipes.
In addition to avoiding detriments, our group is interested in understanding the benefits of plastic plumbing permeability. Private wells, for example, often have very low pH water due to high levels of dissolved carbon dioxide and high soluble iron due to lack of oxygen. Degasification using highly permeable pipe will be explored as a chemical- and energy-free treatment strategy for such well water problems.
As plastic pipes continue to grow in popularity, this research has important implications for plumbing system design, regulations, manufacturing practices, and water treatment.
Why did you choose to pursue postdoctoral training at Virginia Tech?
I was initially drawn to Virginia Tech to pursue my doctorate in 2020 based on the prestige and camaraderie of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department. My experience at Virginia Tech over the years far exceeded my high expectations. I have enjoyed working in a rigorous and collaborative program with faculty who set supporting students as a high priority. Beyond this, I have forged many meaningful connections both on and off campus. As I transition into a postdoctoral role, Virginia Tech with its commitment to service will equip me with skills necessary for pursuing an academic career centered on community-focused research.
What are you most looking forward to as you begin in this fellowship at Virginia Tech?
I am particularly looking forward to having a large role in writing grants and mentoring students. Not only is grant writing an essential skill to develop for pursuing a faculty career, but it would also allow me to develop research ideas, budgets, and identify opportunities for collaboration. I have been thankful to find that Virginia Tech and this fellowship have several resources available to help me grow in preparing grants. Mentorship has always been a big passion of mine, so it will be fun to support graduate and undergraduate students through their academic journeys. My goal is to develop a mentorship style that focuses on leadership through service.