Projects

Pool Research Continues

Consisting of 12 pools located on-campus, the National Pool Industry Research Center is the only facility of its kind in the United States. CE/ENVE researchers, including Drs. Damian Kachlakev and Nirupam Pal are concerned primarily with the etching deterioration of plaster surfaces in swimming pools.

Etching deterioration is a serious concern throughout the swimming pool industry, particularly among contractors who work directly with pool plasters and the manufacturers of white cements and aggregates. The problem is characterized by the common yellow discoloration that builds up in swimming pools over time.

As of spring 2007, the project is in its third phase of investigation. "During the first two phases we determined the cause of deterioration, and right now we are working hard to come up with a solution that minimizes the phenomenon," said NPIRC pool technician Chuck Virden.

Because the dimensions and design specifications for each pool differ, faculty and student researchers can simulate conditions that are unique to different locations. Researchers can also monitor the individual effects of different cleaning techniques.

The research center offers Cal Poly CEENVE students many opportunities for real world applied research. Cal Poly President Warren Baker stated that "this partnership is a model of how industry and academia should work together to gain knowledge and better society as a whole."

For More Information

Dr. Damian Kachlakev
dkachlak@calpoly.edu
805-756-2755

Sponsor

National Plasterers Council