Smithsonian Magazine – Innovation

This High School Student Invented a Filter That Eliminates 96 Percent of Microplastics From Drinking Water

Virginia high‑school senior Mia Heller invented a compact water filter that uses magnetic ferrofluid to capture microplastics. Laboratory tests showed the device eliminates 95.5% of microplastic particles while reclaiming 87% of the ferrofluid for reuse. The membrane‑free system, about the size of a flour bag, earned her a $500 award at the 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. Heller hopes to commercialize the technology for home use, though large‑scale production faces cost and waste‑management hurdles.