Boone, NC — November 21, 2025
Bradley DelVecchio, a graduate research assistant under Dr. Sohad Abu-elzait in the Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment (STBE), has won the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition at Appalachian State University. His winning presentation, titled “Solar-Powered Water Purification for Disaster Relief,” addresses a critical need for clean drinking water in the aftermath of natural disasters.
This achievement marks the second time Dr. Abu-elzait’s students have won the 3MT competition and the third consecutive year STBE has claimed first place, showcasing the department’s leadership in innovative, impactful research.
Bradley will now represent Appalachian State University at the regional 3MT competition, to be held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in February 2026, bringing national attention to App State’s commitment to sustainability and student innovation.
The project was inspired by the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on Western North Carolina, which caused widespread flooding, infrastructure damage, and severe water contamination. Floodwaters carried pollutants, chemicals, and sediments into rivers and streams, posing health risks such as gastrointestinal illnesses and disrupting aquatic ecosystems.
Dr. Abu-elzait shared:
“Ever since Hurricane Helene, I’ve been thinking about how we, as researchers and educators, can dedicate our work to solving real-world problems. This project is a direct result of my Junior Faculty Innovation Award last year and reflects our commitment to sustainable technology and disaster resilience.”
The mobile Solar-Powered Water Purification System operates independently of the electrical grid, making it ideal for disaster relief and off-grid applications. It is an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary effort, involving electrical and energy engineering, environmental science, chemistry, and public health, as well as collaboration with local communities and policymakers.
Bradley and his former research partner Duncan Burns researched, designed, and built the physical prototype, which they showcased at App State’s 28th Annual Celebration of Student Research and Creative Endeavors. This innovation demonstrates how renewable energy can provide safe drinking water when communities need it most.
Congratulations to Bradley DelVecchio and Dr. Sohad Abu-elzait for advancing sustainable solutions that make a difference!
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