Cement-based media (CBM) technology for nutrient removal from stormwater
A passive, cement-based media technology that removes nutrients (nitrate and phosphate) and other contaminants from stormwater and agricultural runoff. Designed for integration into green infrastructure such as permeable pavements and retention basins, offering scalable, low-cost water treatment with potential for spent media reuse as synthetic fertilizer.
Overview
Cement-Based Media (CBM) is a passive treatment technology that uses cement as an inorganic binder to entrain low-cost pollutant-removing compounds. The resulting media captures contaminants from stormwater and agricultural runoff through multiple mechanisms, including adsorption, absorption, nucleation and precipitation, and mineral intercalation. CBM is designed for deployment within existing or future green infrastructure, such as under permeable pavements and within retention basins, making it well suited for municipalities, developers, and environmental managers seeking cost-effective nutrient removal solutions.
Technical specifications
- Versatile contaminant removal: Effective against nitrate (50–100% removal) and phosphate (88–100% removal) across a range of concentrations typical of stormwater and agricultural runoff
- Broad contaminant spectrum: Demonstrated promise in removing heavy metals and organic contaminants in addition to nutrients
- Customizable mix designs: At least six mix designs varying media core and composition can be tailored to specific applications (for example, heavy metal targeting)
- Flexible manufacturing: Can be produced with uniform results either on site or off site, enabling deployment in diverse project settings
- Multiple removal mechanisms: Adsorption, absorption, nucleation and precipitation, and mineral intercalation work in combination depending on the target contaminant
- Field validation capability: UMKC operates a two-level hydraulic flume capable of simulating split flow through permeable pavement systems for realistic testing
Technology readiness level
CBM is currently at bench scale, with peer-reviewed preliminary data published across six publications. Batch reactor testing has demonstrated strong removal performance for both nitrate and phosphate from challenge waters. The research team plans to advance the technology to field application through batch and column reactor analysis, hydraulic flume testing, and eventual pilot-scale deployment in coordination with Oldcastle. A potential additional pathway involves reuse of spent CBM material as synthetic fertilizer, adding a circular economy dimension to the technology.
About University of Missouri, Kansas City
The University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) is a comprehensive public urban research university within the University of Missouri System, serving a diverse metropolitan region from its main and health sciences campuses. Close partnerships with affiliated hospital systems enable clinically informed collaboration and access to clinical environments and shared facilities. An industry‑engaged innovation center connects companies with resources for prototyping and startup support, while the Kansas City location places partners near corporate headquarters, logistics networks, and a regional animal‑health corridor. Research is supported by competitive funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health, alongside state and corporate sponsors. Technology transfer and IP management are coordinated through a system‑wide office, with campus programs that facilitate licensing and startup formation.
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