Throughout May, the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry at the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences hosted a series of educational and interactive workshops as part of the project “Pollutant Hunters – From Natural Filters to Advanced Electrochemical Methods.” The project aims to promote science and foster scientific interest among primary and secondary school students in the Republic of Serbia.

The workshops brought together students from the Fourteenth Belgrade Grammar School, the Mihajlo Pupin Secondary Technical School, and the Sveti Sava Secondary School. Through engaging hands-on activities, the students had the opportunity to learn about the fundamental principles of water purification, filtration, adsorption, and electrochemical oxidation. The project was funded by the Centre for the Promotion of Science.

During the programme, the students built natural water-purification filters, assembled electrochemical oxidation systems, and conducted experiments demonstrating the application of modern methods for removing pollutants from water. Through direct experience and an inquiry-based approach, they gained insight into the importance of electrochemistry, advanced oxidation processes, and scientific solutions for environmental protection.

In addition to the experimental activities, the participants were introduced to the research conducted at the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, as well as to the state-of-the-art laboratory equipment used in scientific research.

The project is led by Dr Marija Simić, while the workshops were carried out with the active participation of project associates and researchers from the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry. Through these activities, the Vinča Institute continues to fulfil its important mission of promoting science and encouraging curiosity, creativity, and interest among young people in chemistry, electrochemistry, and environmentally oriented research.