About
Ernest R. Blatchley III is a Professor in the Department of Environmental and Ecological Engineering at Purdue University's Lyles School of Civil Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley (1988) and B.S./M.S. from Purdue (1981/1983). A licensed Professional Engineer in Indiana and Board Certified Environmental Engineer, his research focuses on photochemical reactors (UV technology), disinfection byproduct dynamics, indoor pool air quality, and sustainable water solutions for developing regions.
Education:
- Ph.D., Civil (Environmental) Engineering, UC Berkeley, 1988
- M.S., Civil (Environmental) Engineering, UC Berkeley, 1983
- B.S., Civil (Environmental) Engineering, Purdue University, 1981
Research interests include UV-based water and air disinfection, chlorination byproduct formation in pools, and interdisciplinary approaches to global water access. His work bridges fundamental science with practical applications, such as solar UV disinfection systems and community-scale water projects in the Dominican Republic.
Publications span over 150 peer-reviewed articles and four book chapters. Key innovations include UV reactor diagnostics and patents on UV disinfection systems. Awards include the 2021 SEEE Instructional Excellence Award and recognition for pioneering UV research from WEF.
Teaching includes courses like 'Physico/Chemical Processes of Environmental Engineering' and 'Water Supply in Developing Countries,' the latter a service-learning initiative addressing global water inequality.
