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Antibiotic resistance is a growing global problem which poses a massive threat to human health. Although human activity contributes to the acceleration of the process, bacteria have a self-driven stabilisation mechanism to protect themselves from such and other external threats: biofilm formation. Nonetheless, it is the adhesion of a single bacterial cell to a surface that triggers the formation of such network of biomolecules and microorganisms, as well as its hazardous consequences. The main objective of this work was to quantify the adhesion force of a single E. coli cell on a Ti substrate via the AFM-related single-cell force spectroscopy, with both the cell and the substrate material being of high clinical relevance. A set of 25 x 25 force displacement curves was acquired with a maximum force of 3.2 nN without dwell time, yielding a topography map and an adhesion force map that showed to be correlated. A mean adhesion force of 0.85 ± 0.175 nN was measured and the presence of cell appendages on the bacterial cell wall was verified through individual force-displacement curves. Bacterial viability was assessed after the measurements via live/dead staining.
Aim of study: In this study, natural durability of some domestic and foreign wood species against Hylotrupes bajulus and Anobium punctatum larvae were tested on laboratory scale
Area of study: This study was conducted at Department of Forest Products Engineering in Duzce University, Turkey and Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), Germany.
Material and Methods: Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris), fir (Abies nordmanniana), spruce (Picea orientalis), cedar (Cedrus libani), poplar (Populus tremula) and beech (Fagus orientalis) woods were used to test H. bajulus larvae (EN 46-1). Alder (Alnus glutinosa), oak (Quercus cerris), poplar (Populus tremula), beech (Fagus orientalis), maple (Acer carpinifolium), ash (Fraxinus angustifolia), teak (Tectona grandis), ayous (Triplochiton scleroxylon), movingui (Distemonanthus benthamianus), dahoma (Piptadeniastrum africanum), iroko (Chlorophora excelsa), bubinga (Guibourtia tessmannii) and sapele (Entandrophragma cylindiricum) woods were used for A. punctatum larvae (EN 49-1). At the end of the experiment, the mortality rates of the larvae were determined and the size and weights of the surviving larvae were measured.
Main results: F. orientalis and C. libani were found to be the most resistant wood species against H. bajulus larvae while A. nordmanniana was the least resistant. All tropical wood species and oak and maple from domestic wood species showed 100% mortality rate therefore found to be the most resistant against A. punctatum larvae. The most vulnerable wood species was found to be alder with a 35% mortality.
Research highlights: while F. orientalis, C. libani, and P. tremula were found the most resistance wood species against H. bajulus, P. sylvestris and A. nordmanniana were determined as most vulnerable. All tropical wood species and two domestic species (Q. cerris and A. carpinifolium) showed the highest mortality rate as 100%. The least durable domestic wood was determined as alder.
The influence of interfacial pH between AISI 4135 steel and seawater under different polarization potentials on the formation of calcareous deposits has been studied. An interfacial pH of 9.61 at −0.9 V vs. SCE using state of the art iridium oxide microelectrode was found to be the critical pH for the precipitation of magnesium hydroxide. Calcareous deposits with a double-layer structure comprising an inner-brucite layer and an outer-aragonite layer were found to form at potentials between −1.0 V and −1.2 V vs. SCE. Furthermore, the facilitation of hydrogen permeation into steel induced by the formation of calcareous deposits was verified using the Devanathan-Stachurski electrochemical test. The mechanism of calcareous deposits facilitates hydrogen permeation into steel is related to its inhibition on hydrogen recombination and escape processes.
The production of secondary materials from waste materials requires, in most cases, significantly lower energy amounts than the primary material production of raw materials. Along with lower energy demand, the greenhouse gas emissions produced are also lower. The duty of a modern waste management system should therefore be to collect and sort the waste materials in a way that the highest amounts of single material fractions with the highest qualities can be generated. In this contribution, the greenhouse gas balances of the theoretical treatment of the household waste, if collected as mixed waste in sanitary landfills, in waste incineration plants, or in mechanical-biological treatment plants, are compared to the existing separate waste collection and treatment in Germany in 2014. The results show that the treatment of the mixed collected household waste in sanitary landfills would lead to a significant release of greenhouse gases. The treatment in MBTs with the recovery of valuables and the further disposal of the biologically stabilized fraction on landfills, as well as the treatment of the high calorific fraction (also called refuse derived fuel – RDF) in RDF plants, coal-fired power plants, or cement kilns, would lead to small amounts of avoided greenhouse gas emissions. The thermal treatment in waste incineration plants would lead to moderate amounts of avoided greenhouse gases. Only with the actually practiced separate collection and treatment of household waste were significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions avoided. In total, this is approximately 5.5 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalents for approximately 45.5 million tons of separate collected and treated household waste in Germany in 2014.
Die Präsentation erläutert die Hintergründe der nationalen Anforderungen für die Verwendung von Kunststoffdichtungbahnen in Deponieabdichtungen. Die Beständigkeit wird diskutiert. Anforderungen an das Qualitatsmanagement während der Produktion der Produkte und der Bauphase werden aufgezeigt und die Auswirkungen auf die langzeitige Funktionserfüllung werden beschrieben.
Designing the performance of geogrids in reinforce soil constructions usually does not consider long-term behavior and possible failure modes of junctions between longitudinal and transverse ribs. How could behavior of junctions be included? To which extend is it necessary? On the conference Geo-Chicago 2016, Swan and Yuan presented an ultimate limit state equation for the short-term material resistance of junctions. We discuss limitations and suggest improvements to include long-term behavior of junctions. Nevertheless, the approach applies only to a specific mode of shear-tensile failure of junctions and only to strictly rigid geogrids. A new design concept presented in the same year by Jacobs on the conference GeoAmerica for the special case of the anchorage of geogrids, which reinforce capping system on long and steep slopes of landfills, tried to overcome these drawbacks. We discuss the aspects of this concept related to the long-term behavior of junctions and the interplay between the load applied to junctions and the flexibility of longitudinal ribs. This interplay and the long-term junction strength determine the long-term behavior of geogrids.
The characteristics of different molecules chosen as representatives for specific functionalities in conditioning layers play an important role on attachment behavior and later biofilm formation of bacteria. The chemical composition is a major component influencing the attachment but there is a conglomerate of influences.
11 laser printers from 5 manufacturers were purchased in 2017 and tested for their UFP emissions. Size resolved sampling of the emitted particles was done with a 13 stage (30 nm to 10 µm) low pressure cascade impactor. The sampled particles were analysed for their chemical composition by thermal extraction (vaporization at 290°C) followed by GC-MS analysis. High boiling cyclic siloxanes (D10 to D16) were detected as constituents of UFP from laser printers. In comparison to measurements in 2008, aliphatic long-chain alkanes (C22 to C34) were detected additionally as chemical constituents of UFP from most of the tested printers and their amounts were higher than for cyclic siloxanes. Printers of one manufacturer showed very low UPF emissions compared to the other manufacturers.
Comparison of Formaldehyde Concentrations in Emission Test Chambers Using EN 717-1 and EN 16516
(2018)
For more than 25 years EN 717-1 (Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde re-lease - Part 1: Formaldehyde emission by the chamber method) is the standard for formalde-hyde emission testing of wooden boards. In 2017 EN 16516 (Construction products - Assess-ment of release of dangerous substances - Determination of emissions into indoor air) was published as a new harmonised standard for the emission testing of construction products. Because test chamber conditions are different, both standards give different concentrations for formaldehyde. To determine a conversion factor four test series were set up with different wooden boards. For a loading of 1 m²/m³ the conversion factor is 1.6. This means that the formaldehyde concentration measured under the conditions of EN 16516 is a factor of 1.6 higher compared to EN 717-1.
Comparison of Formaldehyde Concentrations in Emission Test Chambers Using EN 717-1 and EN 16516
(2018)
For many years EN 717-1 (Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde release - Part 1: Formaldehyde emission by the chamber method) is the standard for formaldehyde emission testing of wooden boards. In 2017 EN 16516 (Construction products - Assessment of release of dangerous substances - Determination of emissions into indoor air) was published as a new harmonised standard for the emission testing of construction products. Because test chamber conditions are different, both standards give different concentrations for formaldehyde. For the determination of a conversion factor four test series were set up with different wooden boards.
The chemical emissions from products are tested by means of emission test chambers under defined conditions (climate, loading, air change rate). The standard method for the determination of volatile organic compounds (VOC) is the sampling onto Tenax-tubes followed by thermal desorption (TDS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The EU-LCI list includes some very volatile organic compounds (VVOC) and some VOC for which there are limitations when using the standard method. For VVOC additional sampling is required using stronger absorbers like Carbotrap or multi-bed adsorption tubes. The analysis of VVOC also requires a different GC oven program and a different column for the separation. For the determination of formaldehyde and other low boiling aldehydes (e.g. acetaldehyde, acetone, propanal, propenal) DNPH-cartridges are used which are extracted with acetonitrile followed by liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV) analysis. The derivatisation of propenal and other unsaturated aldehydes (e.g. 2-butenal) with DNPH might lead to lower findings due to incomplete derivatization and forming of by-products. For a better quantification of acetic acid the use of ion chromatography (IC) is recommended because the analysis of acetic acid with the standard method (TDS) leads to lower findings due to break through during sampling. The use of ion chromatography for the analysis of organic acids requires a third sampling technique. The acids are adsorbed onto silica-gel and extracted with water.
11 laser printers from 5 manufacturers were purchased in 2017 and tested for their UFP emissions. Size resolved sampling of the emitted particles was done with a 13 stage (30 nm to 10 µm) low pressure cascade impactor. The sampled particles were analysed for their chemical composition by thermal extraction (vaporization at 290°C) followed by GC-MS analysis. High boiling cyclic siloxanes (D10 to D16) were detected as constituents of UFP from laser printers. In comparison to measurements in 2008, aliphatic long-chain alkanes (C22 to C34) were detected additionally as chemical constituents of UFP from most of the tested printers and their amounts were higher than for cyclic siloxanes. Printers of one manufacturer showed very low UPF emissions compared to the other manufacturers.
Test chamber measurements are an important tool to improve indoor air quality and occupational safety. Test chamber measurements are possible for a wide range of materials, products and technologies. Determination of concerning contaminants is important to ensure good indoor air quality. The detection of concerning contaminants depends on the approriate sampling and analysis.
The presentation gives general information about the European Standard EN 16516 “Construction products – Assessment of release of dangerous substances – Determination of emissions into indoor air”. This test standard was developed based on the mandate M/366 of the European commission and is a horizontal reference method for the determination of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from different classes of construction (building) products. Specific test conditions are to be selected by the product TCs (technical committees) in a way that a product is tested under its intended condition of use.
The test is based on the use of emission test chambers which are operated at constant air change rate and climate (23°C, 50 % r.h.) over 28 days. The standard defines the conditions and requirements for the measurement including loading factor, air change rate, sampling, analysis and calculation of emission rates of the substances. A 30 m³ reference room is described which is used to calculate air concentrations from the determined emission rates.
The standard EN 16516 enables the evaluation of construction products regarding their emissions into indoor air under defined and comparable conditions. The evaluation includes the determination of identified target compounds, non-identified target compounds, volatile carcinogenic compounds and the sum values TVOC, TSVOC and R.
Summary: A screening test for potential emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) was run on different thermoplastic filaments used for 3D printing. The method of direct thermal desorption was used to simulate the high temperatures during the 3D printing process and to identify the main compounds emitted from the filaments. A large number of unexpected compounds were detected that might affect the user’s health and have an impact on indoor air chemistry.
Introduction: The use of desktop 3D printers is increasing. Compared to other devices with known emissions, e.g. laser printers, there is still a lack of information on possible emissions of VOC and ultrafine particles during operation and the effect on indoor air quality. Most of the commercially available desktop 3D printers operate with a molten polymer deposition. For this process a solid thermoplastic filament is heated in an extrusion nozzle. Most filaments for desktop 3D printers use either acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polylactic acid (PLA) as filament. Alternatives are polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or polycarbonate (PC).
Method: Eight different thermoplastic filaments for 3D printers were analysed by direct thermal desorption followed by GC-MS identification of the emitted substances. Direct thermal desorption was done by desorbing 5 mg of the feedstock for 1 minute at a temperature of 210°C. This is an average temperature for 3D printing with thermoplastic filaments.
Results and conclusions: The comparison of the 4 different filament groups showed the highest overall emissions from ABS, followed by PLA, PC and PVA. Filament ABS 2 emitted mainly SVOCs and triphenyl phosphate, the latter has the highest emission for a single compound from all evaluated filaments.
Thermoplastic filaments are a new source of VOC emissions due to the high temperatures associated with 3D printing, which can reach up to 270°C. Some of the detected compounds like lactic acid, lactide and bisphenol A have never been described before in the indoor environment. Additionally some of the main substances could not be identified and some others might have the potential to affect the indoor air chemistry.
The appearance of some newly detected compounds raises concerns about potential health effects for the users of 3D printers at home.
Bacterial adhesion on surfaces of medical, water and food applications may lead to infections, water or food spoilage and human illness. In comparison to traditional static and macro flow chamber assays for biofilm formation studies, microfluidic chips allow in situ monitoring of biofilm formation under various flow regimes, have better environment control and smaller sample requirements.
In this work, a novel microfluidic platform is developed to investigate biofilm adhesion under precisely controlled bacteria concentration, temperature, and flow conditions. This platform central unit is a single-inlet microfluidic flow cell with a 5 mm wide chamber designed and tested to achieve ultra-homogenous flow in the central area of chamber. Within this area, defined microstructures are integrated that will disturb the homogeneity of the flow, thus changing bacterial adhesion pattern.
Here we present the monitoring of bacterial biofilm formation in a microfluidic chip equipped with a microstructure known as micro-trap. This feature is based on a 3D bacteria trap designed by Di Giacomo et al. and successfully used to sequester motile bacteria.
At first, fluorescent particles similar in size to Escherichia coli (E. coli) are used to simulate bacteria flow inside the flow cell and at the micro-trap. The turbulences induced by the trap are analyzed by imaging and particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). Secondly, the model strain E. coli TG1, ideal and well described for biofilm studies, is used to analyze biofilm formation in the micro-trap. Therefore, a stable fluorescent strain E. coli TG1-MRE-Tn7-141 is constructed by using Tn7 transposon mutagenesis according to the method described by Schlechter et al. Sequestering of E. coli cells within the micro-trap was followed using epifluorescence microscopy.
The novel microfluidic platform shows great potential for assessment of bacterial adhesion under various flow regimes. The performance of structural feature with respect to the generation of turbulences that promote or reduce bacterial adhesion can be systematically examined.
The combination of flow analysis and fluorescent strain injection into the microfluidic chip shows that the micro-trap is useful for capturing bacteria at defined positions and to study how flow conditions, especially micro-turbulences, can affect biofilm formation. It represents a powerful and versatile tool for studying the relation between topography and bacteria adhesion.
During the last decades the material composition of buildings has become increasingly diverse. However, largely sorted material flows are needed for generating high quality secondary building materials. The use of secondary building materials can meet the requirements of sustainability in several ways: the extended time availability of primary raw materials and, thereby, the preservation of natural resources as well as the conservation of landfill sites.
Recycling of gypsum (calcium sulfate) can be a good example for the environmental benefits of closed-loop recycling. The content of sulfates in other secondary building materials, in particular in recycled concrete aggregates, should be minimized for quality reasons. In contrast, separated gypsum can also be used in gypsum production if the high quality requirements for the recycled gypsum are met. Since almost all processing steps in the recycling process are associated with environmental impacts, an environmental evaluation of the use of recycled gypsum as a substitute in gypsum production has to be carefully conducted.
This paper focusses on the techniques for generating recycled gypsum from gypsum plasterboards, the related quality requirements and a comprehensive environmental evaluation of the complete process.
The use of secondary building materials can meet the requirements of sustainability in several ways: the extended time availability of primary raw materials and, thereby, the protection of natural ressources as well as the conservation of landfill sites. Regarding the predicted decrease of gypsum supply in Germany, particularly the recycling of gypsum (calcium sulfate) is of growing importance. Currently, the gypsum demand is fulfilled (at least 60%) by gypsum as side product from coal-fired power plants (FGD Gypsum). Germany’s natural gypsum deposits fulfil the remaining gypsum demand. Due to national climate protection goals the gypsum supply from coal power plants will decrease significantly in the future.
In addition, the content of sulfates in other secondary building materials, in particular in recycled concrete aggregates, should be minimized for quality reasons. Separated gypsum can be used in gypsum production if the high quality requirements for recycled gypsum are met. Accordingly, there have been significant advancements in the processing of gypsum residues in the last years. Since almost all processing steps in the recycling process are associated with environmental impacts, an evironmental evaluation of the use of recycled gypsum as a substitute in gypsum production has to be carefully conducted.
The presentation focusses on the techniques for generating recycled gypsum from gypsum plaster boards, the related quality requirements and a comprehensive environmental evaluation of the complete process.
Gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate) has excellent building material properties and has been widely used in constructions in the last decades in many countries. Accordingly, an increase of waste gypsum in C&D waste is expected in the upcoming years. On one hand, sulfates are unwanted in other secondary building materials (particularly in recycled concrete aggregates) and should be minimized for quality reasons. On the other hand, used gypsum from CDW can also be used in gypsum production if the high quality requirements for the recycled gypsum – especially regarding the sorting accuracy - are met.
A large percentage of the gypsum from buildings was installed as gypsum plasterboards in interior fittings so far. Gypsum plasterboards are comparatively simple to remove and to separate during selective dismantling. Therefore, a high sorting purity can be achieved. In addition, techniques for the recycling of gypsum plasterboards already exist and high quality standards can be achieved. Also, the reuse in gypsum production has been improved in the last decade. Furthermore, an environmental evaluation of the whole process of gypsum plasterboard recycling and reuse showed that this approach can be environmentally advantageous. Therefore, a closed-loop recycling of gypsum plasterboards is feasible.
This poster will show the development of gypsum consumption in different countries as well as a prognosis for the upcoming of gypsum in CDW in the future decades in Germany. Furthermore, a simplified scheme of the recycling process and selected results from an environmental evaluation will be presented.
In order to protect natural gypsum deposits and to compensate for the decreasing amount of Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) gypsum it is necessary to develop and explore new sources of gypsum. For this purpose, the potentials of different gypsum wastes are investigated in the study “GipsRec 2.0”, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Germany).
On the one hand, the project worked on a new processing technology for gypsum fiberboards (GFB). While the recycling of gypsum plasterboards has already been carried out on an industrial scale for several years, the recycling of gypsum fiberboards (GFB) has proven to be challenging. Gypsum fiberboards from demolition sites and offcuts from GFB production were used for these investigations. The tests were conducted on a technical scale. Furthermore, various synthetic gypsums are being investigated with regard to their suitability for gypsum production. The analyses are carried out on production residues.
In this project, a promising process for gypsum fiberboard recycling could be developed, as well as other waste gypsums are investigated and evaluated with regard to their potential as secondary raw material. In addition, selected process routes are assessed for their environmental impact using a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach.
Nonporous corundum powder, known as an abrasive material in the industry, was functionalized covalently with protein binders to isolate and enrich specific proteins from complex matrices. The materials based on corundum were characterized by TEM, ESEM, BET, DLS, and zeta potential measurements. The strong Al-O-P bonds between the corundum surface and amino phosphonic acids are used to introduce functional groups for further conjugations. The common cross-linker glutaraldehyde was compared with a hyperbranched polyglycerol (PG) of around 10 kDa. The latter is oxidized with periodate to generate aldehyde groups that can covalently react with the amines of the surface and the amino groups from the protein via a reductive amination process. The amount of bound protein was quantified via aromatic amino acid analysis (AAAA). This work shows that oxidized polyglycerol can be used as an alternative to glutaraldehyde. With polyglycerol, more of the model protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) could be attached to the surface under the same conditions, and lower nonspecific binding (NSB) was observed. As a proof of concept, IgG was extracted with protein A from crude human plasma. The purity of the product was examined by SDS-PAGE. A binding capacity of 1.8 mg IgG per g of corundum powder was achieved. The advantages of corundum are the very low price, extremely high physical and chemical stability, pressure resistance, favorable binding kinetics, and flexible application.
Nonporous corundum powder was functionalized covalently with protein binders to isolate and enrich specific proteins from complex matrices.The common crosslinker glutaraldehyde was compared with a hyperbranched polyglycerol (PG) of around 10 kDa. The latter was oxidized with periodate to generate aldehyde groups that can covalently react with the amines of the surface and the amino groups from the protein via a reductive amination process. The amount of bound protein was quantified via aromatic amino acid analysis (AAAA). As a proof of concept, IgG was extracted with protein A from crude human plasma. The advantages of corundum include the very low price, extremely high physical and chemical stability, pressure resistance, favorable binding kinetics, convenient handling, and flexible application.
Wood-destroying pests such as Anobium punctatum and Xestobium rufovillosum cause damage to art and cultural objects as well as to buildings. Monitoring population dynamics of pest species as well as of their naturally occurring counterparts are an essential part in the development of biological control measures as alternatives to conventional wood protection. Therefore, both the dispersal and homogeneity of pest and beneficial insect populations across multiple sites and buildings were investigated in the present study using DNA barcoding. Specifically, beetles of Anobium punctatum (de Geer 1774) (Coleoptera, Ptinidae), Xestobium rufovillosum (de Geer, 1974) (Coloeptera, Ptinidae), and Korynetes caeruleus (de Geer 1775) (Coleoptera, Cleridae) were collected from buildings at four different sites in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, North-Eastern Germany. DNA analysis was performed using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). For A. punctatum, low base pair variability was found in the gene segment studied (4-5 SNPs) within one building (Greven) and between four spatially separated sites. Conversely, in X. rufovillosum, the sequences from two sites studied were homogeneous within a site but differed between locations by nine base pair positions (SNPs). The main result of this study is that the pests A. punctatum and X. rufovillosum showed a higher variability in the investigated gene segment than the natural counterpart K. caeruleus.
The chemical state of antimony and vanadium species in municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash
(2023)
Due to the large quantity as residual mineral waste, municipal solid waste incineration - bottom ash (MSWI-BA) is an interesting secondary raw material that can be utilized for road construction. However, leaching of chloride, sulfate and potentially hazardous heavy metals from MSWSI-BA into the environment may cause problems in utilization of it in civil engineering. In a previous study, we performed a long-term leaching test of MSWI-BA in a lysimeter for almost six years to investigate the efficiency of the treatment process on the release of hazardous substances. While concentrations of chloride, sulfate and the majority of the heavy metals started to decrease rapidly with progressive liquid-to-solid ratio (L/S), the ecotoxic hazardous elements antimony (Sb) and vanadium (V) behaved differently. To unravel these unusual release behaviors and the oxyanion-formation of Sb and V we will apply HERFD-XANES spectroscopy to analyze their chemical state.
Analytical Challenges for PFAS in Environmental Samples - Methods, Approaches and Applicability
(2022)
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are anionic, cationic and zwitterionic synthetic products, in which the hydrogen atoms on the carbon skeleton of at least one carbon atom have been completely replaced by fluorine atoms and which include up to 1.7 M compounds, depending on the definition. As a result of continuous and prolific use, mainly in aviation firefighting foams, thousands of industrial and military installations have been found to contain contaminated soil, groundwater and surface water. Furthermore, because of the continuous contamination through PFAS containing commercial products, effluents and sewage sludge from WWTPs have been shown to be an important source of PFAS discharge into the aquatic environment. In the last few years, legacy PFAS (≥C4) have been found in various environments, including soil, water and wastewater, and their environmental pathways have been partly described.
Several long-chain PFAS species, and their respective salts are considered as persistent organic pollutants by the United Nations Stockholm Convention. These pollutants have been linked to altered immune and thyroid function, liver disease, lipid and insulin dysregulation, kidney disease, adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes, and cancer. A significant shift in the chemical industry towards production of short (C4-C7) and ultrashort (C1-C3) alternatives was observed in response to recently intensified regulations and restrictions on the use of long-chain (≥C8) PFAS. PFAS analysis in environmental samples is currently mainly done by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). This efficient method is conducted in a targeted fashion analyzing a small subset of PFAS. The US EPA method for analysis of PFAS using LC-MS/MS for example currently lists 40 PFAS (≥C4). However, to get a better overview of the amount of “total PFAS,” sum parameter methods like total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay and methods based on combustion ion chromatography (CIC) are in development. CIC results in data regarding the sum of absorbable organic fluorine (AOF) or extractable organic fluorine (EOF), which can also quantify other organically bound fluorine compounds such as fluorinated pesticides and pharmaceutical. Moreover, non-target and suspect screening mass spectrometry can be used to identify novel emerging PFAS and partly unknown fluorinated compounds in environmental samples. Furthermore, to analyze ultrashort PFAS (C1-C3), supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC), hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) are available, but further research is needed to develop reliable and accurate methods to quantify several ultrashort PFAS in environmental samples.
Additionally, for research purpose several spectroscopical methods like X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES)spectroscopy, particular induced gamma-ray emission (PIGE) spectroscopy and 19F nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are available.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are anionic, cationic and zwitterionic synthetic products, in which the hydrogen atoms on the carbon skeleton of at least one carbon atom have been completely replaced by fluorine atoms (see Figure 1) and which include more than 4730 compounds, depending on the definition. As a result of continuous and prolific use, mainly in aviation firefighting foams, thousands of industrial and military installations have been found to contain contaminated soil, groundwater and surface water. Furthermore, because of the continuous contamination through PFAS containing commercial products, effluents and sewage sludge from WWTPs have been shown to be an important source of PFAS discharge into the aquatic environment. In the last few years, legacy PFAS (≥C4) have been found in various environments, including soil, water and wastewater, and their environmental pathways have been partly described. To get a better
overview of the amount of “total PFAS,” sum parameter methods like total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay and methods based on combustion ion chromatography (CIC) are in development. CIC results in data regarding the sum of absorbable organic fluorine (AOF) or extractable
organic fluorine (EOF), which can also quantify other organically bound fluorine compounds such as fluorinated pesticides and pharmaceutical. Additionally, for research purpose several spectroscopical methods like X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy, particular induced gamma-ray emission (PIGE) spectroscopy and 19F nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are available. Therefore, an overview is given on various analytical techniques for PFAS in environmental samples and their application possibilities discussed for different kind of PFAS compounds
Dust deposition is an important source of phosphorus (P) to many ecosystems. However, there is little evidence of dust-derived P-containing minerals in soils. Here we studied P forms along a well-described climatic gradient on Hawaii, which is also a dust deposition gradient. Soil mineralogy and soil P forms from six sites along the climatic gradient were analyzed with bulk (X-ray diffraction and P K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure)
and microscale (X-ray fluorescence, P K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure, and Raman) analysis methods. In the wettest soils, apatite grains ranging from 5 to 30 μm in size were co-located at the micro-scale with quartz, a known continental dust indicator suggesting recent atmospheric deposition. In addition to colocation with quartz, further evidence of dust-derived P included backward trajectory modeling indicating that dust particles could be brought to Hawaii from the major global dust-loading areas in central Asia and northern Africa. Although it is not certain whether the individual observed apatite grains were derived from long-distance transport of dust, or from local dust sources such as volcanic ash or windblown fertilizer, these observations offer direct evidence that P-containing minerals have reached surface layers of highly-weathered grassland soils
through atmospheric deposition.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of organofluorine surfactants used in the formulations of thousands of consumer goods, including aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used to suppress aviation fires in training scenarios, non-stick cookware, fast-food wrappers, water-repellent fabrics, medical equipment, and plastic and leather products. As a result of the perpetual use of PFAS containing products, effluents and sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been observed to be an important pathway for PFAS into the environment. In Germany, phosphorus and other nutrients from sewage sludge and wastewater should be recycled in WWTPs of cities with a large population. However, it is not clear if PFAS contamination from wastewater and sewage sludge end up in novel wastewater-based fertilizers. Normally, PFAS are analyzed using PFAS protocols typically with time-consuming extraction steps and LC-MS-MS quantification. However, for screening of PFAS contaminations in sewage sludge or wastewater-based fertilizers also passive sampler based on the Diffusive Gradients in Thin-films (DGT) technique can be used for the PFAS extraction. Afterwards, combustion ion chromatography (CIC) can be applied to analyse the “total” amount of PFAS on the passive sampler. Here, we show results from the DGT method in comparison to those of the extractable organic fluorine (EOF) method for a variety of wastewater-based fertilizers. Additionally, we analysed the adsorption of PFAS on the weak anion exchanger (WAX) based DGT passive sampler binding layer by infrared and fluorine K-edge X-ray adsorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of anionic, cationic, or zwitterionic organofluorine surfactants used in the formulations of thousands of products and consumer goods, including aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used to suppress aviation fires in training scenarios, non-stick cookware, fast-food wrappers, water-repellent fabrics, medical equipment. Because PFAS have been extensively used in a variety of AFFF products they can be found in soils from industrial and military installations. Current decontamination strategies of PFAS-burdened soils mainly consist of adsorption methods using adsorbents for fixation of PFAS in the ground. A second option is the utilization of a “pump and treat” process, cycling polluted soils through a washing plant leading to the concentration of the pollutants in the fine fraction. Only a subsequent, high-energy consuming pyrolysis process guarantees the total destruction of all fluorinated organic contaminants. Both approaches are cost-intensive and not intended for the direct decomposition of all PFAS contaminants. Hence, there is a great demand for innovative developments and chemical treatment technologies, dealing with new strategies of tackling the PFAS problem. Previously, mechanochemical treatment of polychlorinated organic compounds in soils showed an efficient dechlorination. Thus, we investigated mechanochemical treatment of PFAS contaminated soils with various additives in a ball mill and analyzed the PFAS defluorination with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), respectively, as well es the fluoride mineralization by ion chromatography (IC) and fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy.
Specific co-fertilization of nutrients can enhance their plant-availability and thus the yield of plants. To investigate this effect, we performed a pot experiment with three different P-fertilizers and ammonium nitrate sulfate as a co-fertilizer, without and with a nitrification inhibitor (NI), and analyzed the form of nitrogen (N) in the soil via novel X-ray spectroscopic method. The application of NI with the N fertilizer led to a higher dry matter yield of maize. Novel N K-edge micro-X-ray absorption near-edge structure (micro-XANES) spectroscopy identified that the application of a NI promotes the temporary formation of a non-exchangeable N in detectable hot-spots in the soil. The subsequent slow release and prolonged availability of N during plant growth leads to higher yield. It can be concluded that NIs lead to a temporary fixation of ammonium-N in a pool that can be accessed by plant roots. Those types of available nutrient pools meet the idea of so-called “next generation fertilizers” as plants have access to nutrients according to their current demand.
A wide range of analytical methods are used to estimate the plant-availability of soil phosphorus (P). Previous investigations showed that analytical methods based on the Diffusive Gradients in Thin films (DGT) technique provide a very good correlations to the amount of bioavailable nutrients and pollutants in environmental samples (Davison 2016, Vogel et al. 2017). However, the DGT results do not identify which P compound of the soil has the high bioavailability. But there are various spectroscopic techniques (infrared, Raman, P K-edge and L-edge XANES and P NMR spectroscopy) available to characterize P species in soils. Therefore, spectroscopic investigation of DGT binding layers after deployment allow us to determine the specific compounds. Nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen are often, together with other elements, present as molecules in the environment. These ions are detectable and distinguishable by infrared, P K- and L-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and NMR spectroscopy, respectively. Additionally, microspectroscopic techniques make it also possible to analyze P compounds on the DGT binding layer with a lateral resolution down to 1 μm2. Therefore, species of elements and compounds of e.g. a spatial soil segment (e.g. rhizosphere) can be mapped and analyzed, providing valuable insight to understand the dynamics of nutrients in the environment.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used extensively in the past because of their inert chemical character and resistance to degradation by environmental influences. Since the beginning of their commercial use, PFAS have been widely exposed to the environment by application of PFAS in consumer products or as foaming agent in firefighting foams, thus several cases of contaminated soils sites have been reported. Since the number of known PFAS already exceeds 4700, their characterization and direct analysis is challenging given the current available techniques. Here, we introduce the novel fluorine (F) K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy as a tool to analyze PFAS and inorganic fluorine compounds in contaminated soils and sewage sludges. While F K-edge bulk-XANES spectroscopy provide us information on the overall fluorine bonding in a sample micro X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in combination with F K-edge micro-XANES spectroscopy can also detect minor fluorine compounds and PFAS hotspots in investigated soils and sludges. Additionally, we used the combustion ion chromatography (CIC) to analyze the total amount of all PFAS as a sum parameter (extractable organic fluoride: EOF) in soils and sewage sludges. During combustion in the CIC, the PFAS in the sample get destroyed at temperatures of approx. 1000 °C and converted in inorganic fluorides that subsequently gets quantified by ion chromatography. Thus, for the first time we successfully combined F K-edge XANES spectroscopy and CIC as analytical tools to detect and quantify PFAS contaminants in soils and sewage sludges.
The aim of this study was to investigate the passive sampler method Diffusive Gradients in Thin-films (DGT) for ammonium and nitrate in amended soils. Therefore, we used soils from a pot experiment with maize where nitrogen (N) was supplied as ammonium sulfate nitrate (ASN), without and with a nitrification inhibitor (NI). The additional use of a NI can delay the nitrification in the soil and making the ammonium available for a longer period in the soil solution after its application. Homogenized soil samples were collected directly from each pot after one week of incubation before sowing and after harvesting the maize. Nitrate and ammonium in these soil samples were extracted using DGT devices equipped with a Putolite A520E (for nitrate) and Microlite PrCH (for ammonium) binding layer. Ammonium DGT which determined the mobile and labile ammonium forms based on diffusion and the resupplies from the solid soil phase, only showed a significantly higher amount of extractable ammonium with NI compared to that without NI for some samples. However, significantly lower values were found for nitrate of treatments with NI compared to without NI after harvest. Thus, the lower nitrate amounts for treatments with NI compared to the treatments without NI after harvest indicated the delay of the nitrification process by the NI. Furthermore, we compared also the ammonium and nitrate
DGT results to chemical extraction with KCl solutions. The results demonstrated that the trends of DGT results and chemical extraction were complimentary through all the treatments.
Phosphorus (P) fertilizers from secondary resources became increasingly important in the last years. However, these novel P-fertilizers can also contain toxic pollutants. Chromium in its hexavalent state (Cr(VI)) is regulated with low limit values for agricultural products due to its high toxicity, but the determination of Cr(VI) in these novel fertilizer matrices can be hampered by redox processes that lead to false results. Thus, we applied the passive sampler technique Diffusive Gradients in Thin-films (DGT) for the determination of Cr(VI) in fertilizers and compared the results with the standard wet chemical extraction method (German norm DIN EN 15192) and Cr K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy. We determined an overall good correlation between the wet chemical extraction and the DGT method. DGT was very sensitive and in most cases selective for the analysis of Cr(VI) in P-fertilizers. However, hardly soluble Cr(VI) compounds cannot be detected with the DGT method since only mobile Cr(VI) is analyzed. Furthermore, Cr K-edge XANES spectroscopy showed that the DGT binding layer also adsorbs small amounts of mobile Cr(III) compounds which leads to overestimated Cr(VI) values. The results of certain types of P-fertilizers containing mobile Cr(III) or partly immobile Cr(VI), showed that optimization of the DGT method is required to avoid over- or underestimation of Cr(VI).
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of more than 10,000 anionic, cationic, zwitterionic or neutral organofluorine surfactants. As a result of continuous and prolific use, mainly in aviation firefighting foams, thousands of industrial and military installations have been found to contain contaminated soil, groundwater and surface water. While liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is commonly used technique to characterize targeted PFAS in environmental samples, there are more than 10,000 different PFAS known, which have various headgroups and properties. Therefore, several analytical techniques are available to analyse various groups or pools of PFAS or “all” PFAS as a sum parameter. Current decontamination strategies of PFAS-burdened soils mainly consist of adsorption methods using adsorbents for fixation of PFAS in the ground. A second option is the utilization of a “pump and treat” process, cycling polluted soils through a washing plant leading to the concentration of the pollutants in the fine fraction. Both approaches are cost-intensive and not intended for the direct decomposition of all PFAS contaminants. Hence, there is a great demand for innovative developments and chemical treatment technologies, dealing with new strategies of tackling the PFAS problem. Previously, mechanochemical treatment of polychlorinated organic compounds in soils showed an efficient dechlorination. Thus, we investigated mechanochemical treatment of PFAS contaminated soils with various additives in a ball mill and analyzed the PFAS defluorination with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), respectively, as well es the fluoride mineralization by ion chromatography (IC) and fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy.
Over the past century, a range of synthetic compounds have been produced to improve humanity’s quality of life. These include pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other chemical compounds that possess properties making them potentially harmful when released to the environment (e.g., ecological and health impacts to humans and animals). Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of chemicals used in the formulations of thousands of consumer goods, including aqueous film-forming foams used to suppress aviation fires in training scenarios, non-stick cookware, fast-food wrappers, water-repellent fabrics, medical equipment, and plastic and leather products. Because of the recent regulations and restrictions on the use of long chain (≥C8) PFAS a significant shift in the industry towards short (C4-C7) and ultrashort (C1-C3) chain alternatives has been recognized the last years. Due to the high polarity and water solubility of ultrashort PFAS, the potential for bioaccumulation is low. However, the high persistence of ultrashort-chain PFAS will result in environmental accumulation, especially in aquatic environments, leading to potential risks for aquatic organisms and increased human external exposure through drinking water. Ultrashort PFAS like trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) are low to moderately toxic to a range of organisms. In addition, ultrashort PFAS can penetrate natural and anthropogenic barriers and eventually reach drinking water sources. Because common drinking water treatment techniques do not sufficiently remove them, they may reach human consumption. In the project we are focusing on detecting and removing PFAS, especially ultrashort-chain PFAS from contaminated groundwater. We are designing passive sampling devices, which can collect and monitor the temporal profile of PFAS species in groundwater. This will allow us to analyze PFAS contaminations in German and Israeli groundwater using state-of-the-art and novel analytical techniques and understand the extent of contamination. In addition to quantification, PFAS contaminated groundwater will be treated via a two-stage process to produce PFAS-free drinking water. As ultrashort-chain PFAS are difficult to analyze with the current target (LC-MS/MS) and sum parameter (AOF, EOF) analysis methods, we additionally using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Therefore, an analytical method based on GC-MS is in development to analyze the volatile ultrashort-chain PFAS (TFA, PFPrA, TFMS, PFEtS, PFPrS, trifluoroethanol, pentafluoropropanol and hexafluoro isopropanol) directly in contaminated groundwater samples with the headspace technique and in eluates of organic solvents from the developed passive sampler after direct injection. Moreover, a two-stages process is designed to increase the low concentrations found in groundwater using novel membranes processes such as closed-circuit reverse osmosis (CCRO) and mixed matrix composite nanofiltration membranes (MMCM). Next, the rejected streams containing higher concentrations of PFAS will be treated by coagulation, and the remaining PFAS adsorbed onto carbonaceous nanomaterials (CNMs). The DEFEAT-PFAS project will result in the development of novel tools to detect, quantify, and remove PFAS, especially ultrashort-chain PFAS from contaminated groundwater, and will acquire a new understanding of the extent of these contaminations.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of organofluorine surfactants used in the formulations of thousands of consumer goods. The continuous use of PFAS in household products and the discharge of PFAS from industrial plants into the sewer system have been resulted in contaminated effluents and sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) which became an important pathway for PFAS into the environment. Because sewage sludge is often used as fertilizer its application on agricultural soils has been observed as significant input path for PFAS into our food chain. To produce high-quality phosphorus fertilizers for a circular economy from sewage sludge, PFAS and other pollutants (e.g. pesticides and pharmaceuticals) must be separated from sewage sludge. Normally, PFAS are analyzed using PFAS protocols typically with time-consuming extraction steps and LC-MS/MS target quantification. However, for screening of PFAS contaminations in wastewater-based fertilizers also the DGT technique can be used for the PFAS extraction. Afterwards, combustion ion chromatography (CIC) can be applied to analyze the “total” amount of PFAS on the DGT binding layer. The DGT method was less sensitive and only comparable to the extractable organic fluorine (EOF) method values of the fertilizers in samples with >150 µg/kg, because of different diffusion properties for various PFAS, but also kinetic exchange limitations. However, the DGT approach has the advantage that almost no sample preparation is necessary. Moreover, the PFAS adsorption on the DGT binding layer was investigated via surface sensitive spectroscopical methods, such as Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy.
Current decontamination strategies of PFAS-burdened soils mainly consist of adsorption methods using adsorbents for fixation of PFAS in the ground. A second option is the utilization of a “pump and treat” process, cycling polluted soils through a washing plant leading to the concentration of the pollutants in the fine fraction. Only a subsequent, high-energy consuming pyrolysis process guarantees the total destruction of all fluorinated organic contaminants. These approaches are cost-intensive and not intended for the direct decomposition of all PFAS contaminants. Hence, there is a great demand for innovative developments and chemical treatment technologies, dealing with new strategies of tackling the PFAS problem. Thus, we investigated mechanochemical treatment of PFAS contaminated soils with various additives in a ball mill and analyzed the PFAS defluorination with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), respectively, as well as the fluoride mineralization by ion chromatography (IC) and fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy.
The amount of plant-available phosphorus (P) in soil strongly influences the yield of plants in agriculture. Therefore, various simple chemical extraction methods have been developed to estimate the plant-available P pools in soil. More recently, several experiments with the DGT technique have shown that it has a much better correlation to plant-available P in soils than standard chemical extraction methods (e.g. calcium-acetate-lactate (CAL), Colwell, Olsen, water) when soils with different characteristics are considered. However, the DGT technique cannot give information on the plant-available P species in the soil. Therefore, we combined DGT with solution 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. This was achieved by using a modified DGT device in which the diffusive layer had a larger pore size, the binding layer incorporated an adsorption material with a higher capacity, and the device had a larger exposure area. The spectroscopic investigation was undertaken after elution of the deployed DGT binding layer in a NaOH solution. Adsorption tests using solutions of known organic P compounds showed that a sufficient amount of these compounds could be adsorbed on the binding layer in order for them to be analyzed by solution 31P NMR spectroscopy. Furthermore, various intermediates of the hydrolysis of trimetaphosphate in soil could be also analyzed over time.
Phosphorus (P) resource availability is declining and the efficiency of applied nutrients in agricultural soils is becoming increasingly important. This is especially true for P-fertilizers from recycled materials which often have a lower plant-availability compared to commercial P-fertilizers but are expected to play an increasingly important role into the future (Kratz et al. 2019). One promising way to increase the plant-availability of the fertilizer P is a co-fertilization with specific nitrogen (N) forms which can enhance the P uptake and make P-fertilizers from recycled material more competitive to commercial phosphate rock-based P-fertilizers (Rahmatullah et al. 2006; Vogel et al. 2018). To investigate this effect, we performed a pot experiment with three different P-fertilizers (sewage sludge-based, phosphate rock and triple superphosphate) and ammonium nitrate sulfate as a co-fertilizer, without and with a nitrification inhibitor (NI), and analyzed the form of N and P in soil via a suite of chemical and novel X-ray spectroscopic methods. The application of NI with the P and N fertilizers led to a higher dry matter yield and a higher P uptake of maize. Novel N K-edge micro-X-ray absorption near-edge structure (micro-XANES) spectroscopy identified that the application of a NI promotes the temporary formation of a non-exchangeable N in detectable hot-spots in the soil. The subsequent slow release and prolonged availability of N during plant growth leads to higher yield and nutrient uptake. It can be concluded that NIs lead to a temporary fixation of ammonium-N in a pool that can be accessed by plant roots. Those types of available nutrient pools meet the idea of so-called “next generation fertilizers” as plants have access to nutrients according to their current demand.
Phosphorus (P) fertilizers from secondary resources became increasingly important in the last years. However, these novel P-fertilizer can also contain toxic pollutants e.g. chromium (Cr) in the hexavalent state (Cr(VI)), which is regulated with low limit values in agricultural products (German fertilizer ordinance limit: 2 mg/kg Cr(VI)). The determination of Cr(VI) in these novel fertilizer matrices can be hampered by redox processes that lead to false results with the standard wet chemical extraction method (German norm DIN EN 15192). Therefore, we analyzed Cr(VI) in various P-fertilizers with the DGT technique. DGT devices equipped with a APA (polyacrylamide) diffusion layer and Cr(VI) selective N-methyl-D-glucamine (NMDG) binding layer were used for the study. After a 24 h conditioning period of the fertilizer at 60% of the water holding capacity (WHC), the fertilizers were brought to 100% WHC, transferred onto the DGT devices and deployed for 24 h at 25°C. The extraction of Cr from the DGT binding layer was carried out with 1 M HNO3 for 24 h. The Cr-concentrations of the extract were determined by means of ICP-MS. We found a good correlation between the standard wet chemical extraction and the DGT method for the whole range of P-fertilizers. However, partly soluble Cr(VI) compounds cannot be detected in full extent by the DGT method that is best suited for mobile Cr(VI). Furthermore, Cr K-edge XANES spectroscopy showed that the Cr(VI)-selective DGT binding layer also adsorbs mobile Cr(III) compounds from acid treatment of phosphates which can therefore cause an overestimation of Cr(VI). The DGT method was very sensitive and in most cases selective for the analysis of Cr(VI) in P-fertilizers made from recycled materials. However, the results of certain types of P-fertilizers containing mobile Cr(III) or partly immobile Cr(VI) show that still some optimization of the method is required to avoid over- or underestimation of Cr(VI).
Bottom ash (BA) from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) contains harmful substances such as heavy metals, chloride and sulfate which are mobilized in contact with water. Standardized leaching tests are used to measure the extent of mobilization. It is known that fresh bottom ash displays elevated concentrations of various heavy metals such as lead or zinc due to the formation of hydroxo complexes as a result of high pH values of 12 and above. Storage of BA is accompanied by ageing processes, mainly the reaction of CaO and Ca(OH)2 with CO2 leading to lower pH values in contact with water around 11. Usually heavy metals concentrations are minimum at these conditions. Knowledge of the long-term leaching behavior of potentially harmful substances is crucial for the assessment of the environmental compatibility of reusing municipal solid-waste incineration bottom ash (MSWI BA) in construction, i.e., as a road base layer. BA fractions obtained from wet-processing aiming at the improvement of environmental quality were used to investigate the mobility of relevant substances. Eluates from laboratory-scaled leaching procedures (column percolation and lysimeters) were analyzed to learn about the long-term release of substances. Unsaturated conditions and artificial rainwater were used in the lysimeter tests to simulate field conditions. In addition, batch test eluates were generated at usual liquid-to-solid ratios (L/S) for compliance testing purposes. A variety of cations and anions was measured in the eluates. The wet treatment reduces the leaching of chloride and particularly sulfate by more than 60%. The release of typical contaminants for the treated MSWI BA such as the heavy metals Cu and Cr was well below 1% in the conducted leaching tests. An increase in the Sb concentration was observed in the lysimeter experiments starting at L/S 0.75 L/kg and in the column experiment at L/S 4 L/kg is assumed to be related to decreasing concentrations of Ca and thus to the dissolution of sparingly soluble calcium antimonate. The same leaching mechanism applies with V, but the concentration levels observed are less critical regarding relevant limit values. However, on the long term the behavior of Sb could be problematic for the application of MSWI BA as secondary building material.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of anionic, cationic and zwitterionic synthetic products, in which the hydrogen atoms on the carbon skeleton of at least one carbon atom have been completely replaced by fluorine atoms and which include more than 4730 compounds, depending on the definition. As a result of continuous and prolific use, mainly in aviation firefighting foams, thousands of industrial and military installations have been found to contain contaminated soil, groundwater and surface water. As a result of the perpetual use of PFAS containing products, effluents and sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been observed to be an important pathway for PFAS into the environment. In Germany, phosphorus and other nutrients from sewage sludge and wastewater should be recycled in WWTPs of cities with a large population. However, it is not clear if PFAS contamination from wastewater and sewage sludge end up in novel wastewater-based fertilizers. Normally, PFAS are analyzed using PFAS protocols typically with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) quantification. To get a better overview of the amount of “total PFAS,” we applied sum parameter methods based on combustion ion chromatography (CIC) to screen the PFAS contaminations in various sewage sludge and wastewater-based fertilizers. Furthermore, current decontamination strategies of PFAS-burdened soils mainly consist of adsorption methods using adsorbents for fixation of PFAS in the ground. A second option is the utilization of a “pump and treat” process, cycling polluted soils through a washing plant leading to the concentration of the pollutants in the fine fraction. Only a subsequent, high-energy consuming pyrolysis process guarantees the total destruction of all fluorinated organic contaminants. Both approaches are cost-intensive and not intended for the direct decomposition of all PFAS contaminants. Hence, there is a great demand for innovative developments and chemical treatment technologies, dealing with new strategies of tackling the PFAS problem.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of anionic, cationic and zwitterionic synthetic products, in which the hydrogen atoms on the carbon skeleton of at least one carbon atom have been completely replaced by fluorine atoms and which include more than 4730 compounds, depending on the definition. As a result of continuous and prolific use, mainly in aviation firefighting foams, thousands of industrial and military installations have been found to contain contaminated soil, groundwater and surface water. Furthermore, current decontamination strategies of PFAS-burdened soils mainly consist of adsorption methods using adsorbents for fixation of PFAS in the ground. Hence, there is a great demand for innovative developments and chemical treatment technologies, dealing with new strategies of tackling the PFAS problem. Thus, we investigated mechanochemical treatment of PFAS contaminated soils with various additives in a ball mill and analyzed the PFAS defluorination. In this presentation the advantages of fluorine K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy for various environment samples are shown.
A wide range of methods are used to estimate the plant-availability of soil phosphorus (P). Published research has shown that the diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique has a superior correlation to plant-available P in soils compared to standard chemical extraction tests. In order to identify the plant-available soil P species, we combined DGT with infrared and P K- and L-edge X-ray adsorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy. This was achieved by spectroscopically investigating the dried binding layer of DGT devices after soil deployment. All three spectroscopic methods were able to distinguish between different kinds of phosphates (poly-, trimeta-, pyro- and orthophosphate) on the DGT binding layer. However, infrared spectroscopy was most sensitive to distinguish between different types of adsorbed inorganic and organic phosphates. Additionally, also intermediates of the time-resolved hydrolysis of trimetaphosphate in soil could be analyzed. Furthermore, infrared and XANES microspectroscopy make it also possible to analyze P compounds on the binding layer with a lateral resolution down to 1 µm2. Therefore, P species of a spatial soil segment (e.g. rhizosphere) can be mapped and analyzed.
Phosphorus (P) plays an essential role in the global food security. However, the global P reservoirs have a statistic lifetime of about 385 years only. Due to the scarcity of P and the increasing world population an efficient and sustainable recycling management is required. A few biogenic waste materials are high in P contents such as sewage sludge and meat and bone meal. Thus, they are suitable for P recycling and fertilizer production. But besides the high P content sewage sludge is often highly contaminated with organic pollutants and toxic heavy metals which have to be eliminated before agricultural field application. In this presentation we show the potential of sewage sludge as secondary resource for fertilizers. This includes our developments in thermochemical processes for the production of novel P-fertilizers from recycled materials. Furthermore, for these novel P-fertilizers common extraction tests to determine the plant-available P are often unusable. Therefore, we successfully applied the Diffusive gradients in thin-films (DGT) techniques to analyse the plant-availability of P-fertilizers from recycled materials.
Previous research shows that analytical methods based on Diffusive Gradients in Thin films (DGT) provide very good correlations to the amount of bioavailable nutrients and pollutants in the environmental samples. However, these DGT results do not identify which compound of the specific element has the high bioavailability. Using various spectroscopic techniques (infrared, XANES and NMR spectroscopy) to analyze the dried DGT binding layers after deployment could allow us to determine the specific elements or compounds. Nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen are often, together with other elements, present as molecules in the environment. These ions are detectable and distinguishable by infrared and NMR spectroscopy, respectively. In addition, XANES spectroscopy allows for the specification of nutrients and pollutants (e.g. chromium) on the DGT binding layer. Furthermore, microspectroscopic techniques make it also possible to analyze compounds on the DGT binding layer with a lateral resolution down to 5 µm2. Therefore, species of elements and compounds of e.g. a spatial soil segment can be mapped and analyzed, providing valuable insight to understand the dynamics of nutrients and pollutants in the environment. Here we will present the advantages and limitations of this novel combination of techniques.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals which were developed to improve humanity’s quality of life. Due to their high chemical stability and resistance to degradation by heat or acids, PFAS were used in a variety of consumer products. The continuous use of PFAS in household products and the discharge of PFAS from industrial plants into the sewer system resulted in the contamination of effluents and sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) (Roesch et al. 2022). Since sewage sludge is often used as fertilizer, its application on agricultural soils has been observed as a significant entry path for PFAS into the environment, specifically in our food chain. In Germany the sewage sludge/biosolid application on agricultural land was banned with the amendment of the German Sewage Sludge Ordinance and by 2029 sewage sludge application will be totally prohibited. However, phosphorus (P) from sewage sludge should still be recycled in WWTPs of cities with a population larger than 50,000 residents. To produce high-quality P-fertilizers for a circular economy, PFAS and other pollutants (e.g. pesticides and pharmaceuticals) must be separated from sewage sludge. Due to the strong diversity of industrial PFAS usage it is not clear if a safe application of novel recycled P-fertilizers from WWTPs can be guaranteed. Therefore, we analyzed various sewage sludges and wastewater-based fertilizers. Sewage sludge (SL) samples from various WWTPs in Germany and Switzerland, six sewage sludge ashes (SSA) from Germany, six thermally treated SL and SSA samples with different additives (temperatures: 700-1050 °C), two pyrolyzed SL samples (temperature: 400 °C) and two struvite samples from Germany and Canada were analyzed. The goal was to quantify PFAS in sewage sludges and wastewater-based P-fertilizers with the sum parameter extractable organic fluorine (EOF) by combustion ion chromatography (CIC). The results were compared with data from classical LC-MS/MS target analysis as well as selected samples by HR-MS suspect screening. The EOF values of the SLs mainly range between 154 and 538 µg/kg except for one SL which showed an elevated EOF value of 7209 µg/kg due to high organofluorine contamination. For the SSA samples the EOF values were lower and values between LOQ (approx. 60 µg/kg) and 121 µg/kg could be detected. For the pyrolyzed SLs no EOF values above the LOQ were detected. Moreover, the two wastewater-based struvite fertilizers contain 96 and 112 µg/kg EOF, respectively. In contrast to the EOF values, the sum of PFAS target values were relatively low for all SLs. Additional applied PFAS HR-MS suspect screening aimed to tentatively identify PFAS that could contribute to the hitherto unknown part of the EOF value. The majority of the detected fluorinated compounds are legacy PFAS such as short- and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCA), perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSA), polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs) and perfluorophosphonic acids (PFPA). Moreover, fluorinated pesticides, pharmaceutical as well as aromatic compounds were also identified, which are all included in the EOF parameter. Our research revealed that the current PFAS limit of 100 µg/kg for the sum of PFOS + PFOA in the German Fertilizer Ordinance is no longer up to date. Since the number of known PFAS already exceeds 10,000, the ordinance limit should be updated accordingly. Recent regulations and restrictions on using long-chain PFAS (≥C8) have resulted in a significant shift in the industry towards (ultra-)short-chain alternatives, and other, partly unknown, emerging PFAS. Ultimately, also fluorinated pesticides and pharmaceuticals, which end up as ultrashort PFAS in the WWTPs, have to be considered as possible pollutants in fertilizers from wastewater, too.
Halomonas elongata is a halophilic γ-proteobacterium that synthesizes and accumulates the compatible solute ectoine to cope with osmotic stress in saline environments. Ectoine possesses protecting properties and stabilizes proteins as well as whole cells against stresses like ionizing radiation and cytotoxins. These properties make ectoine a highly demanded ingredient in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. To date H. elongata is the industrial Producer strain of ectoine, but several metabolic factors for optimum ectoine production remain to be explored.
In this work, we used up to date Metabolic engineering approaches following the ‘Push, Pull, Block – strategy’ to examine targets that contribute to ectoine synthesis. Firstly, the basics of glucose catabolism were inspected to PUSH and enhance carbon flow towards ectoine synthesis. Secondly, lysine biosynthesis was targeted to BLOCK a pathway that is competing for precursors with ectoine synthesis. Thirdly, the mechanosensitive (MS) channels of H. elongata have been examined as possible excretion routes for ectoine. An overexpression of the ectoine excretion channels potentially could PULL out product at the end of ectoine synthesis and increase overall ectoine flux. For the interrogation of central metabolic pathways, we established the new molecular tool CRISPR-mediated interference (CRISPRi) for targeted modulation of gene expression.
PUSH Glucose catabolism through the Entner-Doudoroff (ED) and Emden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP) pathway was targeted with CRISPRi and examined on gene expression level for ist response to changing salinity and different carbon sources. Changing salinity did not influence gene expression levels of glucose catabolism but the carbon source glucose triggered glycolysis through the (ED) pathway. When gene expression of the ED pathway was downregulated with CRISPRi, the growth rates remained constant. The observations indicate a metabolic overflow mechanism for glycolysis, in which fluxes are constantly high - even at lower salinity when no resources are demanded for ectoine synthesis. The further analysis of glucose to product conversion rates will advise optimum conditions for future industrial cultivation processes.
BLOCK Lysine biosynthesis was downregulated with CRISPRi, which led to a significant increase in ectoine production. Hence, the blockage of lysine biosynthesis would be a valuable strategy for the optimization of the industrial producer strain in future studies.
PULL MS channels and ectoine regulation are inevitably connected in osmoadaptation. Therefore, ectoine excretion, growth performance and gene expression levels of the MS channels were monitored in steady state conditions and in response to osmotic shock in the wildtype strain and in a MS channel deletion mutant. We observed that the MS channels were essential for the survival of osmotic shock but surprisingly their presence reduced cell growth under high salinity. The MS channels were only partially responsible for ectoine excretion.
Thus, alternative ectoine excretion channels must exist and remain to be explored.
The halophilic bacterium Halomonas elongata can tolerate salt concentrations above 10% NaCl and uses the accumulation of the compatible solute ectoine as a major osmoregulatory mechanism. Ectoine can be accumalted inside the cell through import from the medium or de novo synthesis and establishes an osmotic equilibrium with the surrounding1. Ectoine also protects proteins from the effects of freezing, drying and high temperatures4 and DNA from ionizing radiation2. These features make ectoine a valuable compound for cosmetics and medical devices.
H. elongata was originally isolated from a solar salt facility, where it thrives under high salt concentrations. It was found that marine prokaryotes, which are exposed to high oxidative stress in their environment, vary glycolytic strategies5. A variation in the use of the glucose metabolic pathways is also assumed for H. elongata.
The halophilic bacterium Halomonas elongata can tolerate salt concentrations above 10% NaCl and uses the accumulation of the compatible solute ectoine as a major osmoregulatory mechanism. Ectoine can be accumalted inside the cell through import from the medium or de novo synthesis and establishes an osmotic equilibrium with the surrounding1. Ectoine also protects proteins from the effects of freezing, drying and high temperatures4 and DNA from ionizing radiation2. These features make ectoine a valuable compound for cosmetics and medical devices.
H. elongata was originally isolated from a solar salt facility, where it thrives under high salt concentrations. It was found that marine prokaryotes, which are exposed to high oxidative stress in their environment, vary glycolytic strategies5. A variation in the use of the glucose metabolic pathways is also assumed for H. elongata.
Wood treated with nano metal fluorides is found to resist fungal decay. Sol−gel synthesis was used to synthesize MgF2 and CaF2 nanoparticles. Electron microscopy images confirmed the localization of MgF2 and CaF2 nanoparticles in wood. Efficacy of nano metal fluoride-treated wood was tested against brown-rot fungi Coniophora puteana and Rhodonia placenta. Untreated wood specimens had higher
mass losses (∼30%) compared to treated specimens, which had average mass loss of 2% against C. puteana and 14% against R. placenta, respectively. Nano metal fluorides provide a viable alternative to current wood preservatives.
Fluorides are well-known as wood preservatives. One of the limitations of fluoride-based wood preservatives is their high leachability. Alternative to current fluoride salts such as NaF used in wood protection are low water-soluble fluorides. However, impregnation of low water-soluble fluorides into wood poses a challenge. To address this challenge, low water-soluble fluorides like calcium fluoride (CaF2) and magnesium fluoride (MgF2) were synthesized as nanoparticles via the fluorolytic sol−gel synthesis and then impregnated into wood specimens. In this study, the toxicity of nano metal fluorides was assessed by termite mortality, mass loss and visual analysis of treated specimens after eight weeks of exposure to termites, Coptotermes formosanus. Nano metal fluorides with sol concentrations of 0.5 M and higher were found to be effective against termites resulting in 100% termite mortality and significantly inhibited termite feeding. Among the formulations tested, the least damage was found for specimens treated with combinations of CaF2 and MgF2 with an average mass loss less than 1% and visual rating of “1”. These results demonstrate the efficacy of low water-soluble nano metal fluorides to protect wood from termite attack.
In this study, nanoscopic particles of magnesium Fluoride (MgF2) and calcium fluoride (CaF2) also known as nano metal fluorides (NMFs), were evaluated for their potential to improve wood durability. Even though these fluorides are sparingly soluble, their synthesis in the form of nano-sized particles turns them into promising candidates for wood preservation. Their distinct property of low-water solubility is proposed to maintain long-lasting protection of treated wood by reducing the leaching of fluoride. Analytical methods were used to characterize the synthesized NMFs and their distribution in treated wood specimens. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that these fluoride particles are smaller than 10 nm. In nano metal fluoride (NMF) treated specimens, aggregates of these particles are uniformly distributed in the wood matrix as confirmed with scanning electron microscopy images and their corresponding energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy maps. The fluoride aggregates form a protective layer around the tracheid walls and block the bordered pits, thus reducing the possible flow path for water absorption into wood. This is reflected in the reduced swelling and increased hydrophobicity of wood treated with NMFs. The biocidal efficacy of NMFs was tested against brown-rot fungi (Coniophora puteanaand Rhodonia placenta), white-rot fungus (Trametes versicolor), and termites (Coptotermes formosanus). The fungal and termite tests were performed in accordance with the EN 113 (1996) and EN 117 (2012) standards, respectively. Prior to fungal tests, the NMF treated wood specimens were leached according to the EN 84 (1997)standard. Compared to untreated specimens, the NMF treated wood specimens have a higher resistance to decay caused by brown-rot fungi, white-rot fungus, and termites. Although all NMF treatments in wood reduce the mass loss caused by fungal decay, only the combined treatment of MgF2 and CaF2 has efficacy against both brown-rot fungi and white-rot fungus. Similarly, wood treated with the combined NMF formulation is the least susceptible to attack by C. formosanus.It is proposed that combining MgF2 and CaF2changes their overall solubility to promote the release of fluoride ions at the optimal concentration needed for biocidal efficacy against fungi and termites. In this thesis, it was proven that even after leaching, sufficient fluoride was present to protect NMF treated wood from fungal decay. This shows that NMFs are robust enough for above ground contact outdoor applications of wood, where permanent wetness cannot be avoided according to Use Class 3.2, as per the EN 335 (2013) standard. Also, they pose a low risk to human health and the environment because they are sparingly soluble. Since NMFs significantly reduce the decay of wood, the CO2 fixed in it will be retained for longer than in unpreserved wood. Overall, the novel results of this study show the potential of NMFs to increase the service life of building materials made from non-durable wood.
Lightweighting as a cross-cutting technology contributes significantly to achieve the European Green Deal goals. Based on, but not limited to, advanced materials and production technologies, the demand for natural resources and CO2 emmissions are reduced by lightweighting during production, as well as use phase. Therefore, lightweighting is a crucial transformation technology assisting in decoupling economic growth from resource consumption. In this manner, lightweighting contributes significantly as a key technology of relevance for many industrial sectors such as energy, mobility, and infrastructure, towards resource efficiency, climate action and economic strength, as well as a resilient Europe. To strengthen international partnerships, addressing global issues of today at the edge of science with high performance lightweight material based on carbon fibers, an overview about the BAM expertise in carbon fiber reinforced materials is given.
Advanced light weight applications like aircrafts and wind turbine blades are made of fibre reinforced plastics (FRP) with continuous fibre reinforcement and must withstand a high thermo-mechanical cyclic loading. The quality of the fibre matrix interface has a high impact on the fatigue life and was continuously improved over the years since the 50th. The fatigue life of glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP) used in aircraft industry is 10 to 100 times higher compared to glass fibre non crimp fabrics used for wind turbine blades.
To assure a constant and reliable high quality and strength of reinforcement fibres, synthetic fibre production is state of the art (CF, GF). There is a need for recycling GFRP and CFRP waste due to the upcoming use. Pyrolysis and solvolysis are more expensive than the mechanical route however enable a more sustainable recycling. Natural fibres and recycled synthetic fibres have a high scatter in quality and strength. Hence it is a challenge to optimize the production / recycling processes to get a reliable quality for any demanding (second life) application.
Chemical routes for using renewables resources and recycling, is going to be a good approach especially for polymer-matrix systems to get 100% quality (back) compared to the state of the art.
Finally, a proper design, life-time extension and repair is preferable to recycling to keep the carbon footprint as low as possible.
19th and 20th centuries glass paint layers consist of a colour body and a colourless lead silicate flux, in which borax or boric acid was added as further component to improve the paint ability and to reduce the firing temperature for multiple layers of paint. Model glasses were used in laboratory tests to investigate the stability of glass paints with additions of boron oxide. To determine boron in paint layers, a LIBS-system with pulsed NdYAG-laser was used.
Medieval stained-glass windows are protected by an outside gazing system in many churches.The interspace between the original and the protective glass is ventilated with air from the indoor or exterior environment, where dust and particles can move.Cascade impactor measurements and SEM/EDX analyses of sampled dust were carried to determine the dust composition. The effect of particles on model glass samples was investigated in climate chambers under accelerated weathering conditions. The results from in situ measurements and laboratory tests were combined to evaluate the potential effect of particulate matter on historic stained-glass Windows.
The church of Koszewko (Poland) is a brick building edified in the 15th century built on cobblestone foundations. There are five windows in the sanctuary. Three of them enclose heraldic panels from the Küssow’s family from the 15th century which are surrounded with Goethe glass from the 18th century to complete the windows. The colored heraldic panels are strongly damaged and corroded with massive paint layer losses, glass- and leadbreakages. Those medieval glass fragments have been shortly discovered and are of particular interest for Poland since only few medieval glazing have been conserved.
The damages as well as the glass compositions have been investigated with ESEM/EDX. Two categories of medieval glass compositions have been identified. The blue glass is particularly sensible to corrosion because of his high content in K2O. The colorless and the red glass samples belong to a stable glass type. Due to the thickness of the gel layer, it is easy to see that the degradation is strongly proceeded. The protection of those medieval stained-glass panels is absolute necessary.
The medieval panels have been restored and surrounded from a copper frame. Then they have been fixed on the wood frame in the church. The exterior glazing has been closed with a panel of Goethe glass. The gap between the Goethe- and the medieval glass is about 3 cm. The Goethe glass panel has been stabilized with a film based on polyester to protect the medieval glasses against any damages. In this way, a low cost protective glazing has been installed for a long-term conservation of each medieval stained-glass panels. The climate measurements over the period of one year on the restored windows are in process. The temperature and the relative humidity are recorded in the church interior, in the gap between the original and the Goethe glass and outdoors.
Tantalum and niobium are essential for the development of electronics towards a more and more compact design, but without reducing their performance today. Especially in smart phones and tablets, tantalum and niobium capacitors with high charge densities have already become almost indispensable. However, tantalum as a critical raw material is still a problem for the sustainable production of electronics. Due to this fact, the existence of efficient recycling processes especially in Europe is becoming even more important nowadays.
The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is currently working on the optimisation of an existing pyrometallurgical tantalum recycling process. Optimisation of this industrial process is carried out in a small-scale electric arc furnace (480 kVA, capacity approx. 150 kg/h) at BAM using a new and innovative equipment for on-line analysis of high temperature processes.
The aim of this project is to identify the best timing for an optimum slag tapping, when the slag is lower than minimum targeted tantalum concentration. Hence, LIBS (Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy) is used to identify the chemical composition of the slag layer and during slag tapping. The on-line-LIBS prototype of BAM enables an in-situ measurement of the element distribution in the melt after calibration on the slag system.
First results of this joint research project will be presented including LIBS-measurements and thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of the process.
An existing pyrometallurgical process for tantalum and niobium recovery, mainly from low grade pyrometallurgical residues, was investigated. Series of melting experiments were carried out in a pilot-scale electric arc furnace to study how the amount, the grain size and the way of feeding affect the activity of carbon as a reducing agent. During the pyrometallurgical treatment refractory metals such as tantalum and niobium are reduced to their carbide form and enriched in the molten iron-based metal phase. The cooled down slag and metal phase were analysed to investigate thermodynamic and kinetic conditions of the carbide formation. FACT Sage simulations were also used to investigate the material system in state of thermodynamic equilibrium. Results show that mass transfer and kinetics may play an important role if compared to equilibrium analyses using FACT Sage.
Tantalum and niobium are essential for the development of electronics towards a more and more compact design, but without reducing their performance today. Especially in smart phones and tablets, tantalum and niobium capacitors with high charge densities have already become almost indispensable. However, tantalum as a critical raw material is still a problem for the sustainable production of electronics. Due to this fact, the existence of efficient recycling processes especially in Europe is becoming even more important nowadays.
The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is currently working on the optimisation of an existing pyrometallurgical tantalum recycling process. Optimisation of this industrial process is carried out in a small-scale electric arc furnace (480 kVA, capacity approx. 150 kg/h) at BAM using a new and innovative equipment for on-line analysis of high temperature processes.
The aim of this project is to identify the best timing for an optimum slag tapping, when the slag is lower than minimum targeted tantalum concentration. Hence, LIBS (Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy) is used to identify the chemical composition of the slag layer and during slag tapping. The on-line-LIBS prototype of BAM enables an in-situ measurement of the element distribution in the melt after calibration on the slag system.
First results of this joint research project will be presented including on-line-LIBS-measurements and thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of the process.
An existing pyrometallurgical process for tantalum and niobium recovery, mainly from low grade pyrometallurgical residues, was investigated. Series of melting experiments were carried out in a pilot-scale electric arc furnace to study how the amount, the grain size and the way of feeding affect the activity of carbon as a reducing agent. During the pyrometallurgical treatment refractory metals such as tantalum and niobium are reduced to their carbide form and enriched in the molten iron-based metal phase. The cooled down slag and metal phase were analysed to investigate thermodynamic and kinetic conditions of the carbide formation. FACT Sage simulations were also used to investigate the material system in state of thermodynamic equilibrium. Results show that mass transfer and kinetics may play an important role if compared to equilibrium analyses using FACT Sage.
Previous studies have shown that desktop 3D printers (Fused Filament Fabrication) emit high numbers of particulate matter, mainly as ultrafine particles (UFP, particle diameter less than 100 nm). However, the chemical composition of emitted particles has been less extensively investigated. In this study, we therefore focused on the chemical composition of particles emitted from 3D printing. The measurements were conducted in a 1 m³ emission test chamber. Emitted particles were sampled by a 13-stage low-pressure cascade impactor onto aluminum foils and then analyzed by TD-GC/MS to identify their organic compounds. Nine commercial filaments made from basic polymers such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA), Polycarbonate (PC), Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), Nylon, High Performance Polystyrene (HIPS) and a copper-filled Polylactide (PLA) were investigated. The results show that the organic components of the particles are primarily plastic additives such as plasticizer, antioxidant agents, lubricants, UV-absorbers and UV-stabilizers from the filaments.
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) on desktop 3D printers is a material extrusion-based technique often used by educational institutions, small enterprises and private households. Polymeric filaments are melted and extruded through a heated nozzle to form a 3D object in layers. The extrusion temperature is therefore a key parameter for a successful print job, but also one of the main driving factors for the emission of harmful air pollutants, namely ultrafine particles and volatile organic gases, which are formed by thermal stress on the polymeric feedstock. The awareness of potential health risks has increased the number of emission studies in the past years. However, the multiplicity of study designs makes an objective comparison of emission data challenging because printer hardware factors such as the actual extruder temperature (TE) and also feedstockspecific emissions are not considered. We assume that across the market of commercial low- and mid-price FFF printers substantial deviations between actual and set extruder temperatures exist, which have a strong effect on the emissions and hence may bias the findings of exposure studies. In our last publication, we presented a standardized feedstock-specific emission test method and showed that for each investigated feedstock an increase in actual extruder temperature was accompanied by an increase in particle emissions (Tang and Seeger, 2022). Therefore, any systematic discrepancy between set and actual extruder temperature matters. In this study, we used a thermocouple and an infrared camera to measure the actual extruder temperatures at different heights. We found significant under- and overestimation of the actual extruder temperatures by the respective set temperatures in three commercial printers. This caused a broad variation of the measured total numbers of emitted particles (TP), even when the same feedstock was operated. For the determination of TP, we followed the DE-UZ 219 test guideline. In a second round we repeated the tests with all printers adjusted to exactly the same extruder temperatures, i.e., to TE=230°C for ABS and TE=210°C for PLA. All measurements were conducted in a 1 m³ emission test chamber. Particle emissions in the size range between 4 nm and 20 μm were detected. Printing on three different printer models without temperature adjustment resulted for each of the investigated feedstocks in a variation in TP of around two orders of magnitude. After temperature adjustment, this was substantially reduced to approx. one order of magnitude and hence minimizes the bias of printer hardware on the emissions. Our findings suggest that adjustment of the extruder temperature should be mandatory in emission testing standards. It also poses a more accurate benchmark and provides more reliable emission data for evaluation of indoor air quality or for health risk assessments. In addition, a proper temperature setting is in the interest of the user. Some commercial FFF printers may have a higher actual extruder temperature than displayed and unintended overheating may not only impair the print quality but may cause unnecessarily increased exposure to particle emissions.
The diversity of fused filament fabrication (FFF) filaments continues to grow rapidly as the popularity of FFF-3D desktop printers for the use as home fabrication devices has been greatly increased in the past decade. Potential harmful emissions and associated health risks when operating indoors have induced many emission studies. However, the lack of standardization of measurements impeded an objectifiable comparison of research findings. Therefore, we designed a chamber-based standard method, i.e., the strand printing method (SPM), which provides a standardized printing procedure and quantifies systematically the particle emission released from individual FFF-3D filaments under controlled conditions. Forty-four marketable filament products were tested. The total number of emitted particles (TP) varied by approximately four orders of magnitude (1E9 ≤ TP ≤ 1E13), indicating that origin of polymers, manufacturer-specific additives, and undeclared impurities have a strong influence. Our results suggest that TP characterizes an individual filament product and particle emissions cannot be categorized by the polymer type (e.g., PLA or ABS) alone. The user's choice of a filament product is therefore decisive for the exposure to released particles during operation. Thus, choosing a filament product awarded for low emissions seems to be an easily achievable preemptive measure to prevent health hazards.
Previous studies have shown that desktop 3D printers (Fused Filament Fabrication) emit high numbers of particulate matter, mainly as ultrafine particles (UFP, particle diameter less than 100 nm). However, the chemical composition of emitted particles has been less extensively investigated. In this study, we therefore focused on the chemical composition of particles emitted from 3D printing. The measurements were conducted in a 1 m³ emission test chamber. Emitted particles were sampled by a 13-stage low-pressure cascade impactor onto aluminum foils and then analyzed by TD-GC/MS to identify their organic compounds. Nine commercial filaments made from basic polymers such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA), Polycarbonate (PC), Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), Nylon, High Performance Polystyrene (HIPS) and a copper-filled Polylactide (PLA) were investigated. The results show that the organic components of the particles are primarily plastic additives such as plasticizer, antioxidant agents, lubricants, UV-absorbers and UV-stabilizers from the filaments.
An understanding of the interactions of 2D nanomaterials with pathogens is of vital importance to developing and controlling their antimicrobial properties. In this work, the interaction of functionalized graphene with tunable hydrophobicity and bacteria is investigated. Poly-(ethylene glycol)-block-(poly-N-isopropylacrylamide) copolymer (PEG-b-PNIPAM) with the triazine joint point was attached to the graphene Surface by a nitrene [2 + 1] cycloaddition reaction. By thermally switching between hydrophobic and hydrophilic states, functionalized graphene sheets were able to bind to bacteria. Bacteria were eventually disrupted when the functionality was switched to the hydrophobic state. On the basis of measuring the different microscopy methods and a live/dead viability assay, it was found that Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are more susceptible to hydrophobic interactions than B. cereus bacteria, under the same conditions. Our investigations confirm that hydrophobic interaction is one of the main driving forces at the presented graphene/bacteria interfaces and promotes the antibacterial activity of graphene derivatives significantly.
Waste-to-energy (WtE) is one of the leading technologies for municipal solid waste (MSW) treatment in Europe. According to Eurostat data, in 2015, 27 % of MSW was utilized in WtE plants, which represents more than 80 million tons per year. Therefore, the European annual production of incineration bottom ash (IBA) is about 20 million tons, as it is about 25 wt% of input MSW. In the European List of Waste, IBA is listed as mirror entry (i.e. waste materials which should be classified as either non-hazardous or hazardous, depending on its hazardous properties and/or content of hazardous substances) under codes 19 01 11 and 19 01 12.
Recent trends indicate that WtE allows, apart from utilization of the energy content of waste, also the recovery of various valuable components. Hence, WtE can be included in the key technologies that can put the circular economy concept into practice. Secondary raw materials in the case of WtE are solid residues, especially IBA, as it is a secondary source, particularly of ferrous metals (Fe) and non-ferrous metals (NF) and glass. Moreover, the residual mineral fraction can be used for various applications in the construction industry, i.e. as aggregates substitute for bound or unbound applications, in cement manufacturing or, as indicated by recent research, also in more sophisticated applications, e.g. for ceramics production. Recovery of these metals can also cause huge greenhouse gas savings. Alone in Europe, metal recovery from IBA reduces greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 3.2 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
Nowadays, people spend most of their time indoors. Thus, a good indoor air quality is important. Emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from furniture and building materials can cause health complaints1. Quantitative VOC-emission testing is carried out under standardized conditions in emission test chambers. In the presented project an emission reference material (ERM) is developed that emits a defined mixture of VOCs which is required for quality assurance and -control (QA/QC) measures. Porous materials (e.g zeolites, activated carbons, MOFs or aerogels) are used as reservoir materials and impregnated with VOC. The porous materials are selected, among others, by their pore size, pore size distribution, polarity and availability. Due to their regular pore structure zeolites are tested at first. For a prediction of the emission profile, the ERM is supposed to exhibit a constant emission rate over time. The aim is a stability of ≤ 10 % change in the emission rate over a minimum of 14 days.
Method
For impregnation, the material is placed into an autoclave inside a rotatable basket. The VOC is added and the autoclave is closed. Afterwards, CO2 is inserted. The closed system is then heated to the supercritical point of CO2 (31 °C, 73.75 bar). In this state, the CO2 acts as solvent for the VOC. By rotating the basket, the distribution of the VOC is ensured. After a few minutes, the pressure is decreased slowly and the CO2 is released. For the determination of the emission profile, the impregnated sample is placed into an emission test chamber. These chambers can be operated either with dry or humid air (50 ± 5 % rel. humidity). Every second to third day, air samples are taken and analyzed by gas chromatography. For an ideal impregnation, several different pressures and temperatures as well as impregnation times are tested.
Results
Two zeolite materials tested in dry air conditions reach emission profiles with a decrease of less than 10 % over 14 days (heptane and toluene, respectively). Further it was discovered that smaller pellets of the same zeolite show better results than bigger particles. When the pore size of a zeolite is too small, e.g. 0.3 nm, the VOC cannot be absorbed sufficiently. The main disadvantage of zeolites is their hygroscopicity because it has a large impact on the release of VOC when they are used in emission test chambers under standardized test conditions (23 °C, 50 % rel. humidity). Activated carbons have emission profiles with a larger change over 14 days. However, the high hydrophobicity allows measurements in humid air conditions which was not possible with the before mentioned hygroscopic zeolites. It is possible to impregnate powdered materials as well, and thus powdered non-hygroscopic (n.h.) zeolites were impregnated. Their emission profiles are comparable to those of the activated carbons. The use of methylated hygroscopic zeolites with a decrease in hygroscopicity did not yield successful emission measurements. The change over 14 days is calculated only for the stable phase (~250–300 h).
The desired stability of ≤ 10 % change of the emission rate over 14 days could already be reached under dry testing conditions. Further investigations under humid conditions show that zeolites with high Si/Al-ratios are non-hygroscopic and comparable to activated carbons (20–30 % change). The next step is to reduce the change in the emission rate of these materials to the aimed ≤ 10 % over 14 days.
Since nowadays people spend most of their time indoors, a healthy environment is essential. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from furniture and building materials are reported to cause health complaints. Therefore, the usage of low emitting materials will improve the indoor air quality. Quantitative VOC emission testing is usually conducted in emission test chambers under specified controlled conditions as described in DIN 16000-9 and DIN EN 16516.
For reasons of quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) and for a better comparability of test results from different laboratories, suitable emission reference materials (ERM) are needed. Here, it is important to have a homogenous material with known emission rates over a specific time. Different approaches can be found in literature, inter alia polymer films loaded with the target compound to be released again, or a lacquer material to which a VOC mixture is added. After curing of the lacquer, the material can be loaded into a test chamber. Drawback of those approaches are their relatively fast decreasing emission profiles. For QC/QA purposes according to the test standards, VOC sources with constant emission profiles are desirable.
The EU-funded research project MetrIAQ “Metrology for the determination of emissions of dangerous substances from building materials into indoor air” is working on a multi-component ERM with an envisaged instability of ≤ 10 % in the emission rate over at least 14 days.
Within a doctoral thesis porous materials are impregnated with VOCs. Supercritical CO2 is used as solvent. Thus, the impregnated material does not contain any solvent that may show a measurable amount of emission in the emission test chamber. Furthermore, CO2 has the benefits to have a good availability and low costs. For the selection of porous materials several properties like the pore size, the surface, and the interaction with the components in the atmosphere need to be considered. The impregnation method is optimised while the different porous materials are tested. For the selection of porous materials the pores need to be large enough for the VOC molecules, further influence of the pore size is tested.
We demonstrate a 2D platform based on high contrast wetting patterns suitable for miniaturized microbiological assays.
In principal, superhydrophilic spots are surrounded by a superhydrophobic surface area. The special structure of the superhydrophilic functional surface ensures that liquids, e.g. bacterial suspensions or biocide solutions, spread immediately and evenly on this surface without passing the wetting boundary. This feature allows a homogenous distribution of bacteria or chemical substances on well defined lateral dimensions. The superhydrophilic spots may also serve as substrate for bacterial biofilms. Due to the high wetting contrast and the fabrication process, it is possible to minimize the test areas as well as their distance to each other.
We demonstrate the fabrication process of the high wetting contrast platform and also present a microbiological assay as an application example. Advantages of this platform are the use of low volumes and its potential of automated analysis.
Development of a methodical approach for in-situ analysis of modern reverse paintings on glass
(2018)
The technique of painting on the reverse side of glass was rediscovered by artists in the early 20th century and gained great popularity, especially in Germany. In contrast to other paint techniques (e.g. panel and mural painting), the paint layers are applied in reverse succession starting with the foremost paint layer and ending with the primer (backmost layer). The paintings are viewed in reflected light, thus revealing an impressive gloss, luminosity and depth of colour.
Scientific investigation of the material provides important information for appropriate conservation concepts. Transport of the precious and fragile objects to the lab is often not feasible. Therefore, in-situ, non-invasive analysis is necessary to analyse colorants and binders. However, some analytical problems need to be considered: due to the reverse paint stratigraphy in reverse paintings on glass, the measured layer is always the backmost one. The analytical possibilities are extremely reduced, when the back is covered by a metal foil (or by paper, carton etc.). However, measurements through the glass (using Raman and VIS) can still yield information on the colourants of the front layer.
When the paint layer is accessible, we start our procedure using X-ray fluorescence (Tracer III-SD, Bruker AXS Microanalysis GmbH, 40 kV, 15 μA) and VIS reflectance spectroscopy (SPM 100, Gretag-Imaging AG). Both techniques provide first information on the inorganic colourants. Raman measurements (i-Raman®Plus, Bwtek inc., 785 nm, 50× objective, resolution 4 cm-1) are then carried out to clarify uncertain XRF measurements and to identify synthetic organic pigments (SOP). Diffuse Reflection-Infrared-Fourier-Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS; ExoScan, Agilent GmbH, 4000–650 cm-1, 500 scans, spectral resolution 4 cm-1) is used for the classification of the binders. Moreover, it may help to identify SOP, when fluorescence dominates the Raman signal. This analytical sequence yields the best results, when time is the limiting factor.
We present two in-situ studies of the paintings “Kreuzabnahme” (1914-15) by Carlo Mense and “Stadt am Morgen” (1921) by Walter Dexel. The painting “Kreuzabnahme” is an outstanding piece in Mense’s ɶuvre, because the glass plate was painted on both sides (Fig. 1). The results of the back-side show mainly inorganic pigments: basic lead white, talc, red and brown ochre, cinnabar, chrome yellow, viridian, ultramarine blue, Prussian blue and bone black. The classification of binding media using DRIFTS yields positive results for drying oil. Acrylic resin could be identified in two areas, resulting from a previous restauration treatment. For the front side painting, Mense used basic lead white, cinnabar, chrome yellow and umbra as pigments and oil as binder.
Measurements of the abstract painting “Stadt am Morgen” by Walter Dexel show zinc white, basic lead white, chalk, cinnabar, red lead, strontium yellow, cadmium yellow, cobalt blue, Prussian blue, ultramarine blue, brown ochre and bone black as pigments. Moreover, synthetic alizarin (PR83) was identified as dark red colorant. The results of DRIFTS classify oil as binding media.
We conclude that, the use of complementary spectroscopic methods yields the best results for in-situ analysis of reverse paintings on glass.
The technique of painting on the reverse side of glass was rediscovered by artists in the early 20th century. The artist group “Der Blaue Reiter” around Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc got in touch with this technique in 1908 and 1909. In the following years it gained great popularity, especially in Germany. Nevertheless, the technique has not received its due appreciation in art history. It was considered as stained glass. However, the paint layers are applied cold, hence this artistic technique doesn’t involve a firing step.
Our multidisciplinary project investigates the art historic backgrounds, the painting techniques and materials of modern reverse paintings on glass. More than 1000 paintings from ~100 artists were discovered in the framework of our project. A selection of 60 paintings could be analyzed using non-invasive, in-situ methods such as Raman and VIS spectroscopy, Diffuse Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). In this paper we want to point out the key role of Raman spectroscopy for our research. It offers the unique opportunity to measure paint layers from both sides. (front = through the glass; reverse = directly on the paint layer).
This thesis addresses the development of a methodological approach for the non-invasive identification of colourants and for the classification of binding media in reverse glass paintings from the early 20th century. For this purpose, mobile and miniaturized devices were used to measure the paintings in situ. The methodology includes X-ray fluorescence (XRF), VIS spectroscopy (VIS), Raman spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS). In a first step the capabilities of DRIFTS for binding media classification and pigment identification were tested.
DRIFTS enables, besides Raman spectroscopy, the collection of molecular information of a substance that can be used as characteristic fingerprint spectrum. However, the simultaneous collection of both specular (surface) and diffuse (volume) reflection leads to complicated mixed DRIFT spectra, that can vary strongly for one substance depending on the dominant fraction of reflected light. Specular reflection causes several spectral distortions like inverted bands, band shifts and derivative-like features whereas pure diffuse reflections leads to an intensity enhancement of combination bands and overtones. Both specular and diffuse reflection cannot be optically separated, and their proportion depends on material properties like the absorption coefficient and the refractive index as well as on Parameters like surface roughness, porosity, grain size and angle of incidence and detection. A direct comparison of DRIFT spectra with IR spectra of other methods (e.g. transmission, ATR) is not possible, hence the creation of DRIFTS databases was needed. The next step was the complimentary utilization of Raman spectroscopy and DRIFTS for the dentification of synthetic organic colourants. Such colourants are in the further chapters called synthetic organic pigments (SOP) even when it’s not always entirely clear if they are soluble dyes or pigments that are practically insoluble in the medium in which they are incorporated. Raman spectroscopy is generally the method of choice when dealing with SOP, but fluorescence can hamper the Raman spectrum severely, inhibiting the proper identification of the pigment.
DRIFTS was successfully applied and several SOP like synthetic alizarin (PR83), the yellow azo pigments (e.g. PY1) or the red and orange β-naphthol pigments (e.g. PR3) could be identified in the paintings solely by means of DRIFTS. The holistic methodological sequence was defined after the successful establishment of DRIFTS as serious analytical alternative. As the time is always the most limiting factor for in situ measurement campaigns in museums, the 9
sequence needs to be time saving but also efficient. The methodology starts with quick measurements by XRF and VIS to get a first idea of the pigment composition, followed by the validation of the results with the vibrational spectroscopies for selected points.
Measurements of reverse glass paintings by Carlo Mense and Wassily Kandinsky were conducted to test the entire procedure. A high number of pigments could be identified, including several rare ones like strontium white (SrSO4), PR60 and PB52. The binding media were classified using the previously recorded references. The results were set in the art historian context and were discussed in a multidisciplinary way. The influence of Asian art, especially of Chinese reverse glass paintings as source of inspiration for artists of the “Blauer Reiter” collective (e.g. Wassily Kandinsky, Gabriele Münter, Franz Marc und Heinrich Campendonk) is shown. Non-invasive measurements of two Chinese reverse glass paintings from the late 19th and early 20th century were conducted, enabling a comparison of the palettes of Chinese and European painters. The Chinese palette includes heavy use of red lead and orpiment, pigments that were hardly sed in Europe anymore. More modern pigments like zinc white, cadmium yellow, viridian, chromates, cobalt blues or SOP were not found at all in the Chinese paintings.
Scientific analysis based on spectroscopic methods provide essential information on the composition of colourants and binders in paintings. These results can be set in a historical context and help to confirm art historical interpretations. Proofs of certain pigments can be used for dating purposes and may reveal if the artist used not only local but also imported materials. A pilot study of two Chinese reverse glass paintings from the late 19th (Yingying and Hongniang) and early 20th centuries (The Archer) was performed using a multi-analytical approach including X-ray fluorescence (XRF), diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and Raman spectroscopy. This approach allowed the identification of the pigments and the classification of the binding media. The results reveal a combined use of traditional Chinese and imported European materials. Several pigments like cinnabar, lead white, orpiment, carbon black and copper-arsenic green (probably emerald green) were found in both paintings; red lead, artificial ultramarine blue, Prussian blue and ochre appear in at least one of the paintings. The proof of limewash (calcite and small amounts of portlandite) as a backing layer in “Yingying and Hongniang” indicates that clamshell white was also used for reverse glass paintings. Drying oil was classified as a binding media in most areas of both paintings. However, the orange background of The Archer yielded prominent bands of both proteinaceous and fatty binder.
This work addresses the identification of synthetic organic pigments (SOP) in ten modern reverse paintings on glass (1912-1946) by means of an in-situ multi-analytical approach. The combination of the complimentary properties of mobile Raman spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) enabled the detection of sixteen SOP even in complex mixtures with inorganic compounds and binders. For the β-naphthol pigments, both Raman and DRIFTS yield appropriate results. DRIFTS was the preferred method for the detection of synthetic alizarin (PR83). Its diagnostic band pattern even allows its detection in complex mixtures with mineral pigments, binders and fillers. Raman spectroscopy yielded distinctive spectra for the triaryl carbonium pigments (PG1, PV2, PR81) and the two-yellow azo SOP (PY3, PY12), whereas DRIFT spectra were affected by extensive band overlapping. This may also occur in Raman spectra, but in less problematic amounts. Fluorescence is the major problem with Raman and it significantly hampers the SOP spectra even with the 785 nm laser. On the one hand the big spot size of DRIFTS (10 mm) limits the technique to rather large sampling areas, whereas the use of a 50× objective for in-situ Raman measurements permits a focus on small spots and aggregated SOP flakes. Moreover, “environmental” factors like temperature changes, artificial light, limited space and vibrations when people pass by need to be considered for in-situ measurements in museums.
Finally, the results show the experimental use of SOP in modern reverse glass paintings. Among several rare SOP (e.g. PB52, PR81), two of them (PG1, PV2) have never been reported before in any artwork.
First insights into Chinese reverse glass paintings gained by non invasive spectroscopic analysis
(2019)
A non-invasive methodological approach (X-ray fluorescence (XRF), diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), Raman spectroscopy) has been carried out to identify the pigments and classify the binding media in two Chinese reverse glass paintings (The Archer, Yingying and Hongniang) from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The results reveal a combined use of traditional Chinese and imported European materials. Several pigments like cinnabar, lead white, orpiment, carbon black and copper-arsenic green (probably emerald green) were found in both paintings; red lead, artificial ultramarine blue, Prussian blue and ochre appear in at least one of the paintings.
The presence of portlandite (Ca(OH)2) along calcite (CaCO3) in the fine-grained, white backing layer of Yingying and Hongniang indicates the presence of limewash. In Chinese tradition, limewash was produced from clamshells, and was then sold as clamshell white. In contrast to the Japanese pigment, Chinese clamshell white was made of finely grounded shells, which were heated over a low fire. The residue (CaO) forms portlandite (Ca(OH)2) when water is continuously added. This water-rich mixture is applied on the painting. Portlandite reacts with atmospheric CO2 during drying and forms fine-grained calcite (CaCO3) [1,2].
The identification of emerald green (The Archer) suggests an earliest manufacturing date in the 1830s [3] and promotes the sinological dating of the painting. Drying oil was classified as a binding media in most areas of both paintings. However, the orange background of The Archer yielded prominent bands of both proteinaceous and fatty binder.
The technique of painting on the reverse side of a glass panel was rediscovered by German artists at the beginning of the 20th century. They appreciated the impressive gloss, luminosity, and depth of colours in this genre. Compared to stained glass, the distinctive properties of this technique are: (1) the paint is applied “cold”, hence, it doesn’t involve a firing step, (2) reverse paintings on glass are framed and always viewed in reflected light and (3) the reverse paint stratigraphy is different from canvas paintings, starting with the front most layer and ending with the backing layer. In 1908 several artists, including Gabriele Münter, Wassily Kandinsky, Heinrich Campendonk, August Macke and Franz Marc of the “Der Blaue Reiter” (the Blue Rider) collective took an interest in this technique and started to share their interest with other colleagues in Europe. Our pioneering project is tracing this transfer of knowledge by a multidisciplinary approach in terms of art history, paint technology and material science. More than 100 artists and >1000 reverse paintings on glass were identified during the project. This high number of objects clearly points out that this technique was by far more important for modern art than previously assumed. In-situ, non-invasive measurements (XRF, Raman, VIS, DRIFTS) on a well-considered selection of 67 paintings reveal the broad palette of colorants ranging from traditional to experimental. Special attention is paid to the impact of synthetic organic pigments (SOP) in artists palette. Demonstrative examples by W. Kandinsky, L. G. Buchheim and F. Jespers are used to discuss analytical challenges and highlights.
The technique of painting on the reverse side of a glass panel was rediscovered by German artists at the beginning of the 20th century. In contrast to other paint techniques (e.g. panel and mural painting), the paint layers are applied in reverse succession starting with the foremost paint layer and ending with the primer (backmost layer). The paintings are viewed in reflected light, thus revealing an impressive gloss, luminosity and depth of colour. The artist group “Der Blaue Reiter” (the Blue Rider) around W. Kandinsky and F. Marc got in touch with this technique in the summers of 1908 and 1909 and spread their knowledge in different regions. Our pioneering project is tracing this transfer of knowledge by a multidisciplinary approach in terms of art history, painting technology and material science. More than 100 artists and >1000 reverse paintings on glass (1905-1955) were identified during the project. This numbers clearly point out that this technique was by far more important for modern art than previously assumed. In-situ, non-invasive measurements (XRF, Raman, VIS, DRIFTS) on a well-considered selection of 67 paintings reveal the broad palette of colorants ranging from traditional to experimental materials. Special attention is paid on artists who are strongly connected to Berlin. Demonstrative examples by W. Dexel, G. Muche and L. Hildebrandt are used to discuss analytical challenges and highlights.
Calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO4ᐧ0.5H2O), also known as bassanite, has been used as a precursor to produce gypsum (dihydrate, CaSO4ᐧ2H2O) for various construction and decorative purposes since prehistoric times. The main route to obtain hemihydrate is a thermal treatment of gypsum at temperatures typically between 150 °C and 200 °C to remove some of the structural water.
In this contribution, we introduce (Fig. 1) a more efficient and sustainable method (T < 100 °C) that enables the direct, rapid, and reversibly conversion of gypsum to bassanite using reusable high salinity aqueous solutions (brines with c[NaCl] > 4 M). The optimum conditions for the efficientproduction of bassanite in a short time (< 5 min) involve the use of brines with c(NaCl) > 4 M and maintaining a temperature, T > 80 °C. When the solution containing bassanite crystals is cooled down to around room temperature, eventually gypsum is formed. When the temperature is raised again to T > 80 °C, bassanite is rapidly re-precipitated. This contrasts with the typical behaviour of the bassanite phase in low salt environments.
Traditionally, hemihydrate is obtained through a solid state thermal treatment because bassanite is considered to be metastable with respect to gypsum and anhydrite in aqueous solutions, and therefore gypsum-to-bassanite conversion should not occur in water. Its very occurrence actually contradicts numerical thermodynamic predictions regarding solubility of calcium sulfate phases. By following the evolution of crystalline phases with in situ and time-resolved X-ray diffraction/scattering and Raman spectroscopy, we demonstrated that the phase stability in brines at elevated temperatures is inaccurately represented in the thermodynamic databases. Most notably for c(NaCl) > 4 M, and T > 80 °C gypsum becomes readily more soluble than bassanite, which induces the direct precipitation of the latter from gypsum. The fact that these transformations are controlled by the solution provides extensive opportunities for precise manipulation of crystal formation. Our experiments confirmed that bassanite remained the sole crystalline structure for many hours before reverting into gypsum. This property is extremely advantageous for practical processing and efficient crystal extraction in industrial scenarios.
Jährlich entstehen in Brasilien ca. 2 bis 10 Millionen Tonnen Aschen aus der Verbrennung von Zuckerrohrbagasse. Die Aschen enthalten schwankende Zusammensetzungen an mineralischen Nährelementen und könnten daher zu Düngezwecken verwendet werden.
Allerdings ist (i) die Nährstoffverfügbarkeit gering, (ii), die entsprechende Nährstoffzusammensetzung nicht optimal für die Nutzung der Aschen als Düngemittel für die Hauptanbaukulturen in Brasilien und (iii) weisen die Aschen aufgrund häufig schlechter Verbrennungsqualitäten hohe organische Kohlenstoffgehalte auf. Im Rahmen des Forschungsprojekts ASHES („Rückführung von Nährstoffen aus Aschen von thermochemischen Prozessen mit Bagasse bzw. Zuckerrohrstroh“), arbeiten 7 deutsche und 4 brasilianische Partner an der Optimierung der thermochemischen Verwertung von Rückständen aus der Zuckerproduktion in Brasilien, inklusive der Formulierung von optimierten Düngemischungen auf Basis der generierten Aschen. In dieser Veröffentlichung wird die Verarbeitung dieser optimierten Mischungen zu Pellets und Granulaten unter Verwendung verfügbarer regionaler Reststoffe wie Filterkuchen (Vinasse-Presskuchen) sowie Hühnertrockenkot beschrieben. Zur Untersuchung der Handlingeigenschaften wurden die produzierten Pellets und Granulate hinsichtlich ihrer mechanischen Stabilität und des Wasseraufnahmevermögens untersucht. Dafür wurden geeignete Prüfverfahren angepasst und entsprechende Versuche durchgeführt.
The challenge of the project ASHES is focused on the recycling of nutrients from residues of thermochemical processing of by-products of sugar cane industry (bagasse/straw) in Brazil to increase the energy efficiency of thermal conversion and to enable the recycling of process ashes as fertilisers. Dry lignocellulosic biomass (straw, bagasse) are combusted, gasified and subsequently combined with post-thermochemical treatment in the AshDec process to increase the plant availability of phosphorus. Different fertilizer formulations are granulated/pelletized and tested regarding their storage/handling characteristics.
Hydrogen plasma treatment of iron ores or iron oxide containing wastes can be an efficient option to produce green iron e.g. for steel production. This way iron oxide is reduced to metallic iron in the liquid form by the highly reactive species that are formed in a hydrogen plasma. Hydrogen plasma can be used at the same time to remove undesired gangue elements. The presentation shows the experimental setup, shows first results of iron ore reduction by hydrogen plasma and gives an outlook for industrial application of the technology.
SRB are environmentally and industrially important microorganisms. The disadvantage of their metabolic activity (e.g. sulfate reduction) results in the formation of toxic sulfide that leads to microbial influenced corrosion. SRB have been responsible for biocorrosion of ferrous metal. One of mitigation strategy is the use of biocides. However, it has been shown that various bacteria develop antimicrobial resistance due to excessive use of biocides. Thus, a deeper understanding of the evolution of biocide resistance of SRB is necessary. Three commonly used biocides, THPS, BAC, and GLUT were applied to investigate the susceptibility of Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20.The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration and the killing kinetics of the three biocides was determined. These results will be used to conduct evolution experiments to determine the evolution of resistance towards biocides of SRBs. The outcome of this work can be helpful to improve the management of MIC treatments.
Background. Disinfection is an important mitigation strategy to control and prevent the spread of infections. Incomplete or incorrect usage of disinfection may promote evolution of resistance against disinfectants and antibiotics. Ideally, disinfection reduces the number of surviving bacteria and the chance for resistance evolution. Resistance describes the ability to grow in previously inhibitory concentrations of an antimicrobial, whereas tolerance is associated with enhanced survival of lethal doses. Individual bacteria from the same population can display considerable heterogeneity in their ability to survive treatment (i.e. tolerance) with antimicrobials, which can result in unexpected treatment failure.
Objective. In this study, we investigated six active substances of disinfectants, preservatives, and antiseptics against a population of E. coli to identify the presence of a tolerant subpopulation.
Methods. We performed time-kill experiments and analyzed the data with a mathematical model to statistically infer whether the data is best explained by the presence of a tolerant subpopulation.
Results. The analysis identified bimodal kill kinetics for benzalkonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and isopropanol. In contrast, kill kinetics by chlorhexidine, glutaraldehyde, and hydrogen peroxide were best explained by unimodal kill kinetics. These findings have implications for the risk of disinfection failure. In addition, we are currently performing adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) experiments with the different disinfectants to investigate the potential consequences of tolerant sub-populations for the evolution of antimicrobial resistance and tolerance.
Background. Disinfection is an important mitigation strategy to control and prevent the spread of infections. Incomplete or incorrect usage of disinfection may promote evolution of resistance against disinfectants and antibiotics. Ideally, disinfection reduces the number of surviving bacteria and the chance for resistance evolution. Resistance describes the ability to grow in previously inhibitory concentrations of an antimicrobial, whereas tolerance is associated with enhanced survival of lethal doses. Individual bacteria from the same population can display considerable heterogeneity in their ability to survive treatment (i.e. tolerance) with antimicrobials, which can result in unexpected treatment failure.
Objective. In this study, we investigated six active substances of disinfectants, preservatives, and antiseptics against a population of E. coli to identify the presence of a tolerant subpopulation.
Methods. We performed time-kill experiments and analyzed the data with a mathematical model to statistically infer whether the data is best explained by the presence of a tolerant subpopulation.
Results. The analysis identified bimodal kill kinetics for benzalkonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and isopropanol. In contrast, kill kinetics by chlorhexidine, glutaraldehyde, and hydrogen peroxide were best explained by unimodal kill kinetics. These findings have implications for the risk of disinfection failure. In addition, we are currently performing adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) experiments with the different disinfectants to investigate the potential consequences of tolerant sub-populations for the evolution of antimicrobial resistance and tolerance.
One of the key elements in the transformation towards a circular economy (CE) is providing more sustainable practices for resources and waste management. Improvement actions focused on transformation towards a CE should be targeted at all groups of materials and waste. As water is essential for human survival and well-being and plays a significant role in sustainable development (SD), the actions related to the reuse of water and the recovery of raw materials from wastewater and other water-based waste should be taken. The paper presents a proposition for a new CE model framework in the water and wastewater sector, which includes the six following actions: reduction—prevent wastewater generation in the first place by the reduction of water usage and pollution reduction at source; reclamation (removal)—an application of effective Technologies for the removal of pollutants from water and wastewater; reuse—reuse of wastewater as an alternative source of water supply (non-potable usage), recycling—recovery of water from wastewater for potable usage; recovery—recovery of resources such as nutrients and energy from water-based waste, and rethink—rethinking how to use resources to create a sustainable economy, which is `free` of waste and emissions. The novelty of the proposed CE model framework is that it presents possible ways of implementing CE principles in the water and wastewater sector, with a strong emphasis not only technological but also organisational and societal changes. Application of the proposed model may help to further transform the European economy to the CE model. Moreover, the indicated model can be significant tool supporting an assessment of local or regional progress towards CE in the water and wastewater sector and further environmental management and planning.
In the transition to the Circular Economy (CE) model, where the added value of products is kept as long as possible and waste is eliminated, the sustainable management of raw materials plays a key role. In above CE model, especial attention is paid to CRMs which are economically and strategically important for the European economy, but have a high-risk associated with their supply.
One of the most important element which can not be replaced and is an essential element for human nutrition, yet limited resource is phosphorus (P). An importance of issues related to sustainable P management results from EU legislation, which indicated P as a Critical Raw Material (CRM).
The sustainable management of P-resources is especially important for the Baltic region. A consequence of waterborne loads passing into the sea, mainly as wastewater with a high P content is the eutrophication of the Baltic Sea environment. Due to the largest inputs of P (37%) into the Baltic Sea originate from Poland, the development of sustainable solutions aimed at more rational P management for this country is externally important.
Due to the vital importance of phosphorus (P) and its increasing scarcity as a natural resource, phosphorus recovery has recently gained significant scientific and technical interest. An interesting sources of phosphorus are sewage sludge (SS) and sewage sludge ash (SSA) due to the major part of the phosphate from P rich wastewater is transferred to the sludge (approx. 90%). Despite the fact that the raw materials base is large (PURE report indicates that in 2020 the amount of sewage sludge generated in Poland will reach 180% of the dry matter of sewage sludge produced in 2010), at present recycling of phosphorus is not a commonly used practice in Poland.
Due to its large mineral fraction, incineration bottom ash (IBA) from municipal solid waste incineration is an interesting raw material that can be used for road construction or to produce secondary building materials. However, leaching chloride, sulfate, and potentially harmful heavy metals may cause problems in using IBA in civil engineering. Investigating leaching behavior is crucial for the assessment of the environmental compatibility of IBA applications. Various test procedures are available for that purpose. In the present study, a long-term leaching test of a wet-mechanically treated IBA was performed in a lysimeter for almost six years.
While concentrations of chloride, sulfate and the majority of the heavy metals started to decrease rapidly with progressive liquid-to-solid ratio (L/S), antimony (Sb) and vanadium (V) behaved differently. At the beginning of the lysimeter test, the Sb and V concentrations were low, but after approximately one year of operation at an L/S ratio of around 0.8 L/kg, a steady increase was observed. It was shown that this increase is the result of low Ca concentrations due to the formation of CaCO3.
With the data, the solubility products from Ca-antimonate and Ca-vanadate were calculated. The unusual leaching behavior of Sb and V should be kept in mind when considering field scenarios and evaluating the impact on the environment.
The classification of incineration bottom ash (IBA) as hazardous or non-hazardous according to ecotoxic hazard property HP14 is still under debate. In this context, only the compounds of Zn and Cu with the hazard statement code H410 are of relevance. With an approach based on the grouping of substances, it was shown that such substances are either readily water-soluble or slightly and sparingly soluble. The concentrations of readily soluble Cu and Zn compounds in IBA are far below the cut-off value of 0.1%. Slightly and sparingly soluble Zn and Cu compounds could be quantified in the first fraction of a four-step sequential extraction procedure. With the results from the complete sequence, the dimensionless synthesis toxicity index (STI) was calculated and was in the range of 494 to 1218 for the four investigated IBA samples. It was concluded that IBA can usually be classified as non-hazardous.
The classification of incineration bottom ash (IBA) as hazardous or non-hazardous according to ecotoxic hazard property HP14 is still under debate. In this context, only the compounds of Zn and Cu with the hazard statement code H410 are of relevance. With an approach based on the grouping of substances, it was shown that such substances are either readily water-soluble or slightly and sparingly soluble. The concentrations of readily soluble Cu and Zn compounds in IBA are far below the cut-off value of 0.1%. Slightly and sparingly soluble Zn and Cu compounds could be quantified in the first fraction of a four-step sequential extraction procedure. With the results from the complete sequence, the dimensionless synthesis toxicity index (STI) was calculated and was in the range of 494 to 1218 for the four investigated IBA samples. It was concluded that IBA can usually be classified as non-hazardous.
Waste, Evaluation Methods
(2019)
It is difficult to decide which waste management system fulfills best predefined sustainability goals such as maximum materials and energy recovery, least environmental impact, and lowest societal cost. Such decisions are based on many parameters. However, several evaluation methods exist with different scope and output, and the application of one or more evaluation methods provides an objective comparison of alternatives.
Sustainability has become the conscientious and future-oriented principle of modern resource management and environmental protection because caring for the future is tantamount to providing manageable and healthy surroundings for ourselves. For the foreseeable future, geotechnical and environmental engineers must therefore be concerned with ensuring a healthy balance between extraction, processing, manufacturing, utilization, recycling, and disposal of materials and products.
Since it was realized that sites contaminated with metals and radionuclides needed treatment, various remediation methods have been and are being developed. Depending on the size of the contaminated site and urgency of intervention, conventional or recently introduced techniques have been used. Conventional techniques include excavation and removal for treatment of soil and contaminants, or the so-called “pump-and-treat” method, in which contaminated groundwater is removed from the ground by pumping and treated in a treatment plant on the surface. It has the advantage of using proven techniques and is easy to control, and the treated groundwater can be reinjected into the ground or discharged in rivers or lakes. Novel methods include permeable reactive barriers, biomineralization, and electrokinetic remediation.
Direct and indirect effects (DIERec) of the recovery of secondary resources are in the range of 500 million tons per year in Germany; energy savings are 1.4 million TJ. These savings are between 10 and 20% of the total. The effects of materials recovery exceed those of energy recovery by far except for secondary plastic material, where DIERec from energy recovery is higher by factor of 2.7. Untapped potential for the recovery of secondary resources exists in the fine fraction of bottom ash from municipal solid waste incineration, mainly Cu and precious metals, and in urban mining.
Wet-mechanical treatment: Processing of bituminous road construction waste in a jigging machine
(2023)
Jigging machines are used in processing technology in many areas. Examples are the processing of coal, ores, and primary and secondary raw and waste materials. Even small differences in density are offen sufficient for successful sorting. In the work presented here, milled material from road construction waste contaminated with bitumen is to be separated from uncontaminated material. In this way, scarce landfill space could be saved and mineral material be returned to the material cycle.