Open Innovation Programs

Boost Your Water Technology

Our spring Tech Challenge is open through May 19! Water technology innovators from anywhere in the world—including inventive individuals, university students or researchers, water professionals or private sector and government labs—are invited to apply. Read on to learn more about this session’s topics, or click here to learn about the Tech Challenge program in general.

tech challenge, spring 2024

1. Water Quality Sensors for Hardness, Scale and Biofilm Monitoring in Pipe Networks  

1.1 Description 

On behalf of A.O. Smith, Badger Meter, and Watts Water, The Water Council is managing a Tech Challenge seeking innovative solutions to monitor hardness, scale or biofilms to proactively reduce potential for scale, corrosion, and fouling for pipes, tanks, valves, and other equipment that comes in contact with water. Solutions without the needs for reagents are sought for the following types of potential applications: 

  • Potable water distribution systems 
  • Point of use/point of entry water treatment 
  • Cooling towers and systems 
  • Water and wastewater piping in buildings 
  • Boilers and water circulation systems

1.2 Key Success Criteria

  • TRL 3 or higher (Feasibility Demonstration: Initial development of technology has been completed. Basic components of the technology are well understood. Minimum: Laboratory Scale) 
  • No reagents required 
  • Durable 
  • Low cost 
  • Long lasting 
  • Low energy usage 
  • Rapid response 
  • Minimizing false positives or false negatives 

Learn More & Apply

2. Water Quality Sensors for Phosphate, Ammonia and Other Nutrients

2.1 Description 

On behalf of A.O. Smith, Badger Meter, and Watts Water, The Water Council is managing a Tech Challenge seeking innovative solutions to monitor phosphate, ammonia, and other nutrients in water. Solutions are sought for the following types of potential applications: 

  • Rivers, lakes and streams 
  • Industrial and municipal stormwater 
  • Industrial and municipal wastewater 
  • Potable water distribution systems 
  • Point of use/point of entry water treatment 
  • Cooling towers and systems 
  • Water and wastewater piping in buildings 
  • Boilers and water circulation systems 

2.2 Key Success Criteria

  • TRL 3 or higher (Feasibility Demonstration: Initial development of technology has been completed. Basic components of the technology are well understood. Minimum: Laboratory Scale) 
  • No reagents required 
  • Durable 
  • Low cost 
  • Long lasting 
  • Low energy usage 
  • Rapid response 
  • Minimizing false positives or false negatives 

Learn More & Apply

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Karen Frost

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