A 13-year-old student has developed a system that significantly reduced carbon dioxide in seawater during experiments, offering a promising approach to protecting coral reefs and shellfish in coastal countries like the Philippines.
Raji Doshi, an eighth-grader from Connecticut, United States, created ALKACORE by combining seaweed with a natural mineral. Her invention won the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, earning her $25,000 and the title of America’s Top Young Scientist, organizers announced October 14.
Her project tackles ocean acidification. As seawater absorbs carbon dioxide, it becomes more acidic, making it harder for corals, oysters and other marine animals to build and maintain their shells and protective structures.
The problem is especially relevant to the Philippines, where coral reefs and marine resources sustain fishing communities and coastal livelihoods. The Department of Science and Technology has studied seawater conditions at 63 locations nationwide to help identify areas vulnerable to ocean acidification.
ALKACORE uses seaweed to absorb carbon dioxide as it grows. A naturally occurring mineral called aragonite helps reduce acidity in the water. According to 3M, Raji’s experiments showed that adding aragonite increased seaweed growth and substantially lowered dissolved carbon dioxide.
She also developed a computer model to calculate how much mineral the system needs, helping refine its potential use in coastal areas.
Her idea began with a love of collecting seashells. After learning how ocean acidity threatens the animals that create them, Raji decided to investigate a solution.
“Raji’s project reminds us that when you’re passionate about something, you can use that interest to change the world,” said Deborah Isabelle, a 3M specialist who mentored her.
Raji defeated nine other finalists aged 11 to 14 during the October 12 and 13 competition in Minnesota. Her research offers a direction for future efforts to protect marine ecosystems, including the coastal waters on which many Filipino communities depend.
