Ag Nanoparticles to Eliminate Microorganisms in Wastewater: A Science Experiment in Junior High School

We have developed a project to teach junior high school students the importance of nanotechnology by solving a problem that affect their daily life. After giving students some extracurricular lessons about the basics of nanotechnology and microbiology, students make an experiment using silver nanoparticles to eliminate microorganisms in wastewater. No special laboratory facilities are needed, and the only equipment necessary is a compound microscope. The project was tested with students in an indigenous junior high school in Tijuana, Mexico. However, we believe that it can be useful for students anywhere in the world, even in schools in developed countries.