Melissa Donovan
Every year, people consume anywhere from 74,000 to 121,000 pieces of microplastic through food, water, and even the air they breathe. While researchers continue to study the long-term health impacts, an Orlando middle school student is working on a potential solution.
Sheyna Patel, an 8th-grade student at Orlando Science Schools, has developed a non-toxic hydrogel that captures and breaks down microplastics in water with over 93% efficiency, offering a powerful new tool to protect aquatic ecosystems. Her innovative project has earned her a finalist spot in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a national STEM competition hosted by technology company 3M and Discovery Education.
“I entered the 3M Young Scientist Challenge because of my passion for STEM research and environmental preservation, which this competition offers me a chance to showcase my findings and represent the innovative ideas I have toward tackling real-world problems,” Patel said on the 3M Young Scientist Lab’s website.
The competition challenges middle school students nationwide to create science-based solutions to everyday issues. Patel’s project stood out for addressing the growing environmental concern of microplastics, which are increasingly found in drinking water and natural habitats. Her hydrogel design is not only effective but also eco-friendly and cost-efficient, making it a potential alternative to traditional filtration systems.
As part of the program, Patel is now working alongside a 3M scientist mentor to refine her invention and further explore its applications. The winner of the Young Scientist Challenge will be announced in October and will receive a $25,000 prize.
Looking to the future, Patel has ambitious goals beyond the competition.
“In 15 years, I hope to be in a leadership role within a field I’m passionate about, driving innovation, mentoring others, and contributing to meaningful advancements that benefit not only my organization, but society as a whole in STEM,” Patel said on the competition’s website.
At just 14 years old, Patel is already gaining national recognition for her ideas. Her work highlights how young innovators are contributing to solutions for global issues like microplastic pollution—while inspiring others in Florida and beyond to think creatively about the challenges facing the environment.
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