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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent a class of synthetic organofluorine chemicals extensively utilized in the manufacturing of various materials such as firefighting foams, adhesives, and stain- and oil-resistant coatings. In recent years, PFAS have been considered as emerging environmental contaminants, with particular focus on perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), the most prevalent type among PFAS. PFCAs are characterized by a fully fluorinated carbon backbone and a charged carboxylic acid headgroup. Notably, they have been designated as Substances of Very High Concern and added to the REACH Candidate List due to their persistence in the environment, non-biodegradability and toxicological effects.
Conventional techniques for the analysis of PFCA, such as GC-MS, HRMS and HPLC-based methods, are laborious, not portable, costly and require skilled personnel. In contrast, fluorescence assays can be designed as easy-to-operate, portable and cost-effective methods with high sensitivity and fast response, especially when analyte binding leads to a specific increase of a probe’s emission. Integration of such probes with a carrier platform and a miniaturized optofluidic device affords a promising alternative for PFCA monitoring.
Here, a novel guanidine BODIPY fluorescent indicator monomer has been synthesized, characterized, and incorporated into a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) for the specific detection of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The MIP layer was formed on tris(bipyridine)ruthenium(II) chloride doped silica core particles for optical internal reference and calibration-free assays. Such system allows selective and reliable detection of PFCA from surface water samples, with minimum interference by competitors, matrix effects and other factors. Integration of the assay into an opto-microfluidic setup resulted in a miniaturized and easy-to-operate detection system allowing for micromolar detection of PFOA in less than 15 minutes from surface water sample.
A damaging action of HNO3-55% only occurs in combination with its decomposition into nitrous gases, which can be caused by UV radiation. In a laboratory test, transparent HDPE jerrycans have been exposed to both UV radiation and 55 wt-% nitric acid solution at (41 ± 2)°C, for up to 20 days. For comparison, UV radiant exposure (21 days) and nitric acid exposure (up to 6 weeks) were performed separately, at nearly equal temperatures. The respective damages are compared with FTIR spectroscopy in ATR and HT-gel permeation chromatography (GPC) on a molecular level and with hydraulic internal pressure testing as a component test. For the used jerrycans, relevant oxidation can only be found after the combined exposure. The gradual increase in oxidative damage shows the good reproducibility of the lab exposure. The decomposition of nitric acid into nitrous gases by UV radiation – as well as the jerrycan oxidation – is also observed at lower HNO3 concentration (28 wt- %). Similar results are obtained after outdoor tests. Again, the damage occurs only after combined exposure, in contrast to the exposures to UV only and to HNO3 only, which were conducted in parallel. Outdoor exposures are most readily accepted as they represent possible end-use conditions. However, the reproducibility of these exposures is poor due to the large temporal variations in weather. There are also several safety risks, which is why the number of replicates remains limited. Since the outdoor and lab exposure tests show the same qualitative results, it is appropriate to conduct systematic studies in the laboratory. After 6 days of lab exposure, the oxidation damage is rated as critical, which corresponds to about 1/10 year in Central Europe, according to the UV radiant exposure. It should be noted that this amount can also occur in two sunny weeks.
Next to primary functions, energy-related products have an increasing number of additional functions. This affects the overall environmental footprint, but the question is how? A number of European policy strategies, initiatives and measures, such as the Green Deal, the Circular Economy Action Plan,the Ecodesign Directive and the EU Energy Labelling, aim to ensure that the environmental impact of the overall product is better determined, communicated and finally reduced. A core element of these efforts is the DIN EN 4555x series of standards. However, there is currently no comprehensive and systematic classification of the additional product functions or an approach to assess the associated positive and negative environmental impacts.
Therefore, we present in this study an environmental assessment approach for additional product functions and illustrate its application in the case of fridge-freezers.
A key element of the life-cycle-oriented methodology is an assessment matrix to categorize and evaluate the direct, indirect and systemic impacts of products’ functions. Based on semiquantitative assessments of experts, the matrix provides an indication of how the additional function affects the overall environmental product impact as well as specific product aspects such as durability or reparability. Based on the results experts can discuss and better understand how specific functions can influence various stages of the product life cycle and how intended systemic changes or rebound effects could occur. As part of the approach, a representative survey was conducted to analyze consumers’ knowledge and information needs. Based on the results, recommendations for purchasing decisions and the consumer information were developed. This paper presents the results from the assessment of the additional functions of fridge-freezers.
Pioneering durability in electronics - The role of standardisation in policymaking and vice versa
(2024)
This paper highlights the role of standardisation in enabling greener electronics in the EU. It presents an analysis of the evolving landscape of material efficiency standardization, the majority of which has been undertaken in the framework of the European Ecodesign Directive, soon to be repealed by the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation. The impending policy shift will include a very broad extension of product scope, a strengthening of the way in which material efficiency aspects are addressed, and wider potential for product labelling. During the stakeholder consultation process, the European Commission announced that the durability of products would be one of the major topics in the new regulatory approach - hence the specific focus of this paper on durability scoring.
The paper first examines the policy and standardization context, and then provides an overview of material efficiency indexes and scoring systems currently in place or being developed. It highlights where standardization is following policymaking, and where standardization is paving the way for more circular products. Scoring systems and indexes could potentially be used for both (i) setting minimum requirements for products entering the EU market, and (ii) consumer labels on material efficiency aspects such as product durability that could trigger environmentally sustainable purchase decisions. Subsequently, a methodological framework for a comprehensive durability scoring system that could be developed in standards is proposed, and the potential for these to be used as a basis for product legislation is explored. Potential durability criteria are listed, divided into technical, servicerelated and further aspects. Technical aspects include external factors that influence the durability of products such as drop/shock resistance. Service-related aspects include, for example, pre-purchase information provision on battery replaceability or availability of software updates. Other aspects include for example pro.
Flexible anisotropic magnetoresistive sensors for novel magnetic flux leakage testing capabilities
(2024)
Rigid magnetic field sensors such as anisot Hall sensors have been used for years and have become industry standard for electromagnetic non-destructive testing (NDT). Recent technological developments in the field of flexible electronics allow for the fabrication of reshapeable magnetic field sensors on flexible substrates via thin-film deposition or printing. The magnetic properties of these sensors have comparable characteristics to industry-standard rigid magnetic field sensors, with the added ability of adapting to the surface of complex components and scanning in contact with the sample surface. This improves defect detectability and magnetic signal strength by minimizing the scanning lift-off (LO) distance. In this article flexible AMR sensors mounted on a rotative mechanical holder were used to scan a semi-circular ferromagnetic sample with 3 reference defects via magnetic flux leakage (MFL) testing, thus demonstrating the applicability of this type of sensors for the scanning of curved samples. In order to benchmark the performance of these sensors in comparison to industry standard rigid magnetic field sensors, a ferromagnetic sample with 10 reference defects of different depths was scanned employing flexible AMR and rigid GMR sensors. Defects with depths ranging from 110 μm up to 2240 μm were detected with an signal-tonoise ratio (SNR) of 2.7 up to 27.9 (for flexible AMR sensors) and 6.2 up to 72.3 (for rigid GMR sensors), respectively. A 2D magnetometer mapping of the sample with a spatial scanning step of 10 × 50 μm2 (flexible AMR) and 16 × 100 μm2 (rigid GMR) was obtained. The results show that this type of sensor can be used for high-resolution and high-detail mapping of defects on the surface of planar and non-planar ferromagnetic samples since the scanning lift-off distance is equal to the substrate thickness of 20 μm for in-contact scanning. The SNR comparison between flexible and rigid sensors shows that the performance of the flexible AMR sensors employed is not very far behind the performance of the rigid GMR sensors used.
The research project focuses on tackling the detection, measurement, and elimination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from polluted groundwater, with a particular emphasis on addressing short (C4-C7) and ultrashort (C1-C3) chain PFAS. Given the widespread use of PFAS in various products, they are commonly found in groundwater near industrial and military sites in Germany and Israel. Moreover, recent regulations limiting the use of long chain PFAS have led industries to shift towards shorter chain alternatives. Hence, our efforts are geared towards refining detection, quantification, and removal methods for short and ultrashort chain PFAS. In terms of detection, ww are developing passive sampling devices capable of collecting and tracking the temporal distribution of PFAS species in groundwater. This will enable us to analyze contaminations in German and Israeli groundwater using cutting-edge analytical techniques. Additionally, contaminated groundwater will undergo a two-stage treatment process aimed at concentrating the relatively low PFAS concentrations using innovative membrane technologies such as closed-circuit reverse osmosis and mixed matrix composite nanofiltration membrane adsorbers. Subsequently, the streams containing higher PFAS concentrations will be treated through coagulation, with the remaining PFAS being adsorbed onto carbonaceous nanomaterials. The outcome of this research will include the creation of advanced tools for detecting, measuring, and eliminating PFAS from polluted groundwater, while also enhancing our understanding of the scope of these contaminations.
Ultrashort PFAS (≤ 3 carbon atoms) were overlooked for a long time in analytical monitoring. Beside through the use of these substances, they contribute to the PFAS background in the environment through (environmental/ bio-) degradation and incomplete destruction3 of PFAS with longer carbon chains or other fluorinated compounds. As part of the German-Israeli Cooperation in Water Technology Research project „Detection, quantification, and treatment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in groundwater“ (DEFEAT-PFAS), we are developing an as simple as possible direct headspace (HS-)GC-MS method to detect trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and perfluoropropanioc acid (PFPrA), as well as trifluoroethanol (TFEtOH), pentafluoropropanol(PFPrOH) and hexafluoroiospropanol (HFIP) in water samples. Here we present the results of the PFAS mentioned in spiked ultrapure water solutions.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been extensively utilized in various industrial processes, resulting in elevated concentrations in landfills and drinking water reservoirs. Despite recognizing that shortchained
PFAS are harmful, they are often overlooked. Short-chain PFAS are more challenging to remove via adsorption and membrane separation processes, and their detection is complex, thus creating a critical gap in understanding their environmental impact. To improve their environmental monitoring, we aim to improve short-chain PFAS adsorption and electro-sorption on novel carbon-based adsorbers such as pristine and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and assess their adsorption mechanisms. Based on the obtained result, we aim to develop a PFAS passive sampling device.
Detection, Quantification and Treatment of Per and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Groundwater
(2024)
The research project focuses on tackling the detection, measurement, and elimination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from polluted groundwater, with a particular emphasis on addressing short (C4-C7) and ultrashort (C1-C3) chain PFAS. Given the widespread use of PFAS in various products, they are commonly found in groundwater near industrial and military sites in Germany and Israel. Moreover, recent regulations limiting the use of long chain PFAS have led industries to shift towards shorter chain alternatives. Hence, our efforts are geared towards refining detection, quantification, and removal methods for short and ultrashort chain PFAS. In terms of detection, ww are developing passive sampling devices capable of collecting and tracking the temporal distribution of PFAS species in groundwater. This will enable us to analyze contaminations in German and Israeli groundwater using cutting-edge analytical techniques. Additionally, contaminated groundwater will undergo a two-stage treatment process aimed at concentrating the relatively low PFAS concentrations using innovative membrane technologies such as closed-circuit reverse osmosis and mixed matrix composite nanofiltration membrane adsorbers. Subsequently, the streams containing higher PFAS concentrations will be treated through coagulation, with the remaining PFAS being adsorbed onto carbonaceous nanomaterials. The outcome of this research will include the creation of advanced tools for detecting, measuring, and eliminating PFAS from polluted groundwater, while also enhancing our understanding of the scope of these contaminations.
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.
Introduction: Effective disinfection is crucial to maintain hygiene and to prevent the spread of infections. Phenotypic heterogeneity in disinfection survival (i.e. tolerance) may result in failure of disinfection, which in turn may foster the evolution of resistance to both disinfectants and antibiotics. However, the consequences of phenotypic heterogeneity for disinfection outcome and resistance evolution are not well understood. Goal: This study investigates the impact of phenotypic heterogeneity on the survival and evolution of Escherichia coli during disinfection with six commonly used substances. Furthermore, the consequences of evolved disinfectant tolerance for antibiotic resistance evolution are studied. Materials & Methods: The extent of population heterogeneity during disinfection is derived by determining time-kill kinetics and analysis with mathematical modelling. The link between population heterogeneity and evolvability of disinfectant tolerance was assessed by laboratory evolution experiments under periodic disinfection. The ability of disinfectant tolerant strains to evolve antibiotic resistance is assessed by serial transfer experiments with increasing concentrations of different antibiotics and by whole genome sequencing. Results: Multi-modal time-kill kinetics in three of the six disinfectants suggest the presence of disinfectant-tolerant subpopulations (i.e. persister cells). Importantly, the ability and extent to evolve population-wide tolerance under periodic disinfection is related with the presence of persister cells and the level of phenotypic heterogeneity during disinfection. Interestingly, the probability of high-level resistance evolution to certain antibiotics is attenuated in disinfectant tolerant strains as compared to the sensitive ancestor. Whole-genome sequencing reveals epistatic interactions between disinfectant tolerance and antibiotic resistance mutations, preventing access to canonical evolutionary paths to resistance. Summary: Our findings suggest that phenotypic heterogeneity can facilitate disinfection survival and the evolution of population wide tolerance, which can impact future antibiotic resistance evolution.
Any surface in the environment acts as hotspot for microbial attachment and activity. These biofilms represent the interface between humans and the environment.
While in the past biofilms were often seen as disturbance, we now start to understand the enormous potential of beneficial biofilms. They can be used in a broad range of applications and are sources for new microorganisms and traits. After all, biofilms represent a great example for a collaborative lifestyle.
This presentation provides an introduction and intermediate results of the Horizon-Europe STAR4BBS project.It focuses on how to maximize the potential of Sustainability Certification Schemes (SCS) and labels to support a successful transition to a sustainable bio-based economy by assessing their effectiveness, robustness, and credibility.
The Microplastic Microbiome
(2024)
Microplastics represent man-made and newly emerging surfaces in our ecosystems, where they interact with microorganisms. The ecosystem in focus of this presentation will be the aquatic environment. It will be portrayed, which microorganisms use microplastics as a habitat, how environmental factors shape this colonization, and why the biodegradation of plastics in the ocean is an overall unlikely process. We will also discuss whether potentially pathogenic microorganisms use microplastics as a raft. Finally, possible adaptation mechanisms of plastic-colonizing microorganisms will be presented, such as the production of photoreactive molecules. The microplastic microbiome has a large potential to harbor so far unknown species with curious traits, representing an exciting research topic for the future.
We introduce a passive smart dust concept as a novel solution for environmental monitoring. Utilizing chemical reagents like colorimetric indicators and other chemosensors, these particles detect varying environmental conditions. We developed paper-based sensors that are both cost-effective and eco-friendly. In practical tests, these sensors, dispersed over a designated area, successfully identified hazardous substances by changing their color when exposed to acids or bases. This color change was remotely detectable using a drone-mounted color camera. The data thus obtained was processed through specialized software, accurately pinpointing areas of contamination. This method proves the efficacy and scalability of passive smart dust technology for real-time, environmentally sustainable remote sensing of hazardous materials
Use/distribution of cost-effective and biocompatible pieces of cellulose paper as passive optical chemosensors and readout by the camera system.
Modification of the paper surface using various chemically sensitive dyes (indicators) provides an optically detectable reaction and conclusions about the target substances and precise location.
Revolutionizing our polymer industry for adaption to a sustainable carbon circular economy has become one of today’s most demanding challenges. Exploiting renewable resources to replace fossil-fuel—based plastics with biopolymers such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is inevitable while using waste streams as a raw material resource at least is promising. When it comes to using PLA as technical polymer, its high flammability must be addressed by flame retardants compatible with the thermoplastic processing of PLA and its compostability. This study proposes microalgae enriched with phosphorus from wastewater (P-Algae) as an elegant way towards a kind of sustainable organophosphorus flame retardant. The concept is demonstrated by investigating the processing, pyrolysis, flammability, and fire behavior of PLA/P-Algae, while varying the P-Algae content and comparing P-Algae with four alternative bio-fillers (phosphorylated lignin, biochar, thermally treated sewage sludge, and metal phytate) with different P-contents as meaningful benchmarks.
This paper outlines significant advancements in our previously developed aerial gas tomography system, now optimized to reconstruct 2D tomographic slices of gas plumes with enhanced precision in outdoor environments. The core of our system is an aerial robot equipped with a custom-built 3-axis aerial gimbal, a Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) sensor for CH4 measurements, a laser rangefinder, and a wide-angle camera, combined with a state-of-the-art gas tomography algorithm. In real-world experiments, we sent the aerial robot along gate-shaped flight patterns over a semi-controlled environment with a static-like gas plume, providing a welldefined ground truth for system evaluation. The reconstructed cross-sectional 2D images closely matched the known ground truth concentration, confirming the system’s high accuracy and reliability. The demonstrated system’s capabilities open doors for potential applications in environmental monitoring and industrial safety, though further testing is planned to ascertain the system’s operational boundaries fully.
Gas Distribution Mapping (GDM) is essential in monitoring hazardous environments, where uneven sampling and spatial sparsity of data present significant challenges. Traditional methods for GDM often fall short in accuracy and expressiveness. Modern learning-based approaches employing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) require regular-sized input data, limiting their adaptability to irregular and sparse datasets typically encountered in GDM. This study addresses these shortcomings by showcasing Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) for learningbased GDM on irregular and spatially sparse sensor data. Our Radius-Based, Bi-Directionally connected GNN (RABI-GNN) was trained on a synthetic gas distribution dataset on which it outperforms our previous CNN-based model while overcoming its constraints. We demonstrate the flexibility of RABI-GNN by applying it to real-world data obtained in an industrial steel factory, highlighting promising opportunities for more accurate GDM models.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were classified as a group of highly concerning chemicals over the last decades. Because of the high persistence of PFAS, their previous use led to contamination of the environment and human population. Due to ongoing use and incomplete remediation or destruction methods, the PFAS background in the environment is growing continuously.
The presence of ultrashort PFAS (with ≤3 carbon atoms) in the environment is often overlooked despite their contributions to PFAS levels. These compounds may directly contaminate the environment and arise from degradation of polyfluorinated compounds as well as incomplete PFAS destruction in certain industrial processes. Nonetheless, few approaches for targeted analysis of ultrashort PFASs have been developed, except for trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). Beside liquid (LC-MS/MS), supercritical fluid (SFC-MS/MS), and ion chromatography (IC-MS)-based systems, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a promising method for detection and quantification of ultrashort PFAS.
The goal of this study was to develop a simple headspace GC-MS method for the quantification of ultrashort perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) and polyfluorinated alcohols (PFOHs) in water samples. In contrast to PFOHs, functionalization of PFCAs was required for quantification. This was done by esterification with methanol at 80 °C, which can be carried out directly in the headspace GC-MS system.
Moreover, several parameters were optimized to achieve a low limit of quantification (LOQ) for the analytes used: i) The ratio of the aqueous solution, methanol, and available gas phase within the analysis vessel, ii) the concentration of additional acid in esterification mixtures of PFCAs, iii) shaking frequency and iv) shaking time before analysis. After optimizing the procedure, we were able to quantify ultrashort PFCAs and PFOHs. Thus, our developed headspace GC-MS method has the potential to be used as an alternative target analysis for ultrashort-chain PFCAs and PFOHs in various water samples (groundwater, wastewater).
Monitoring of microplastics in food matrices is crucial to determinate the human exposure. By direct ingestion microplastics could be released in the food during the production, through packaging and by consumer’s use. The absence of standard methods to quantify and detect different size range and type of microplastics has led to difficult and time consuming procedural steps, poor accuracy and lack of comparability. In this work, matrix characterization and laboratory experiments were used to investigate the efficiency of sample preparation in milk powder. This information is crucial to compile a standard procedure for sample preparation and digestion of common milk powder to detect different particle sizes and types of polymers. Charaterisation is done by TGA and TOC measurements.
Following the recommendation of the European Chemicals Agency, on 25 September 2023 the European Commission passed a comprehensive new regulation to reduce emissions of microplastics (MP) into the environment, which includes the sale and use of intentionally added MP.1,2 This also applies to the application of synthetic rubber granulate infill in artificial turf systems and will ultimately have an impact on recreational sports. In Germany, rubber granulate made of ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer rubber (EPDM) is currently predominantly used. So far, there is no sufficient database for estimating MP emissions from artificial turf pitches into the environment and thus their relevance as a source of MP pollution.3 This topic is controversially discussed due to the complexity of sampling and analytics. To close this research gap, this project has the goal to determine mass balances for the emissions of MP from artificial turf pitches to allow an estimation of the amount of MP released per artificial turf pitch and year.
Within this study, MP emissions of three artificial turf scenarios at different time states (unaged, artificially aged and real-time aged) are compared: the past (old turf: fossil based, synthetic infill), present (most commonly installed in Europe: fossil based, EPDM infill), and the future (turf with recycled gras fibres, no synthetic infill). To simulate the outdoor weathering during the lifespan of an artificial turf of approx. 15 years, brand-new artificial turf and EPDM rubber granulate were accelerated aged by means of UV weathering and mechanical stress. Potential MP emissions into surface and groundwater are simulated by lysimeter and shake experiments. MP mass contents are subsequently determined by Thermal Extraction Desorption Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. Using special microfilter crucibles allows the estimation of the particle sizes of the emitted MP, which is a fundamental requirement for an assessment of potential health hazards for humans.
This study explores the acceleration of material design in the concrete industry, focusing on improving carbonation resistance, a key factor in the durability of concrete structures. Traditional tests for carbonation resistance are lengthy, but with the construction industry aiming for sustainable production, finding a balance between carbonation resistance and CO2 footprint is crucial. Our research employs two innovative methods: 1. Applying the Sequential Learning App for Materials Discovery (SLAMD), an AI materials design framework, to an extensive dataset of real-world concrete compositions to selectively test materials that meet market demands: maximum durability, optimal eco-durability, and the best cost-durability trade-off. 2. Investigating 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) relaxometry as a quick alternative for characterizing carbonation behavior, as it saves time compared to traditional tests and assesses the complete material's pore space. Specific NMR features are then integrated into the material design model, with the model's performance compared against traditional approaches. The results of our study are compelling, demonstrating that materials can be precisely tailored to meet specific requirements with minimal data points. This marks a significant stride in the concrete industry, indicating that NMR-based, low-fidelity surrogate characterizations, combined with a focused, data-driven design approach, can substantially accelerate the development of durable, sustainable concrete mixtures.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by furniture and building materials can cause health issues. For an improvement of indoor air quality low emitting materials should be used. Quality assurance and –control (QA/QC) measures require an emission reference material (ERM) with a predictable emission rate of VOCs. The idea is to use porous materials as ERM, which store the VOCs inside their pores and emit them constantly.
Interlaboratory studies are common tools for collecting comparable data to implement standards for new materials or testing technologies. In the case of construction materials, these studies form the basis for recommendations and design codes. Depending on the study, the amount of data collected can be enormous, making manual handling and evaluation difficult. On the other hand, the importance of the FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable) principles for scientific data management, published by Wilkinson et al. in 2016, is constantly growing and changing the view on data usage.
The benefits of using data management tools such as data stores/repositories or electronic laboratory notebooks are many. Data is stored in a structured and accessible way (at least within a group) and data loss due to staff turnover is reduced. Tools usually support data publishing and analysis interfaces. In this way, data can be reused years later to generate new knowledge with future insights. On the other hand, there are many challenges in setting up a data repository, such as selecting suitable software tools, defining the data structure, enabling data access, and understanding by others and
ensuring maintenance, among others.
This talk discusses the advantages and challenges of setting up and applying a data repository using the interlaboratory study on the mechanical properties of printed concrete structures carried out in RILEM TC 304-ADC as example. First, the definition of a suitable data structure including all information is discussed. The tool-dependent upload process is then described. Here, the data
management system openBIS (open source software developed by ETH Zurich) is used. Since in most cases an open compute platform allowing access from different organisations is not possible or available due to data protection and maintenance issues, tool-independent export options are discussed and compared. Finally, the different query and analysis possibilities are demonstrated.
Homochirality is an obvious feature of life on Earth. On the other hand, extraterrestrial samples contain largely racemic compounds. The same is true for any common organic synthesis. Therefore, it has been a perplexing puzzle for decades how these racemates could have formed enantiomerically enriched fractions as a basis for the origin of homochiral life forms. Numerous hypotheses have been put forward as to how preferentially homochiral molecules could have formed and accumulated on Earth. In this article, it is shown that homochirality of the abiotic organic pool at the time of formation of the first self-replicating molecules is not necessary and not even probable. It is proposed to abandon the notion of a molecular ensemble and to focus on the level of individual molecules. Although the formation of the first self-replicating, most likely homochiral molecule is a seemingly improbable event, on a closer look, it is almost inevitable that homochiral molecules have formed simply on a statistical basis. In this case, the non-selective leap to homochirality would be one of the first steps in chemical evolution directly out of a racemic “ocean”. Moreover, most studies focus on the chirality of the primordial monomers with respect to an asymmetric carbon atom. However, any polymer with a minimal size that allows folding to a secondary structure, would spontaneously lead to asymmetric higher structures (conformations). Most of the functions of these polymers would be influenced by this inherently asymmetric folding. To summarize, simple and universal mechanisms may have led to homochiral self-replicating systems in the context of chemical evolution. A homochiral monomer pool is deemed unnecessary and probably never existed on primordial Earth.
Organotin compounds (OTCs) have been widely used in anti-fouling paints, pesticide formulations, and as stabilizers in polyvinyl chloride over the past century. In marine ecosystems, OTCs can cause severe damage to biodiversity, leading up to the extinction of vulnerable species. Due to the extensive use of tributyltin (TBT) as a biocide on ship hulls, it has been considered one of the most hazardous substances intentionally introduced into the aquatic environment. This resulted in a global ban on TBT-containing products in the 2000s. However, recent studies indicate the emerging presence of organotin pollutants.
OTCs are known to persist and accumulate in marine sediments, posing a long-term threat to the environment. These harmful substances can be set free and dispersed even after several decades. Therefore, analyzing sediment probes is imperative for a thorough monitoring of pollution. However, species-specific analysis of OTCs at required concentration levels in complex environmental matrices remains challenging. Chromatographic systems are commonly used for their analysis, but the required sample preparation is time-consuming and prone to contamination and analyte loss. The coupling of electrothermal vaporization and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ETV/ICP-MS) demonstrates high potential as a rapid, convenient, and chemical-saving scanning tool for environmental samples.
This method enables the direct on-line fractionation of organic compounds from an inorganic fraction and provides element-specific detection at ultra-trace levels without complex sample preparation. Since OTCs are generally more toxic than ionic or elemental tin, analyzing them as a sum parameter is advantageous. Additionally, the determination of both organic and inorganic tin, rather than just organic tin, reveals valuable information about the fate of OTCs. The main challenge in obtaining accurate quantitative data using direct solid sampling techniques like as ETV/ICP-MS is applying a suitable calibration strategy. Our isotope dilution approach overcomes matrix effects in ETV/ICP-MS analysis and is compatible with commercial systems.
PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a widespread and emerging environmental problem due to their longevity and ubiquitous spread. The common structural motif of this compound class is the fluorine – carbon bond on an alkyl backbone, which are known for their chemical inertness and combination of hydrophobicity and oleophobicity. The downside of those properties is the general lack of usable molecular interactions for adsorption to extract them from the environment. The notable exception to that inertness are fluorine – fluorine interactions, which are stronger, the longer the perfluorinated chain length is. Therefore, in this project we investigated the effect of fluorination, length and presence of a charge on the alkyl chain on an adsorber. Towards that goal, in total 16 different adsorber materials were synthesized (fluorinated/non-fluorinated; C4/ C6/ C8/ C10 ; positive charge/no charge) and tested in regard to their potential to adsorb PFOA and perfluoralkylic acids of differing chain lengths. The PFAS concentration was tested via LC-MS/MS to determine the adsorption rate on the various materials. Further work includes the transition from a target analytics to sum parameter analysis for future evaluation of adsorber materials in PFAS environmental samples like river samples. Therefore a quarterly sampling and extraction of spree surface water samples was planned.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have received global public attention because of their wide distribution in aquatic environments and potential adverse effects to humans and wildlife. Due to the lack of analytical standards and the enormous numbers of these compounds, current target-based methods (e.g., LC-MS/MS) are not suitable for the analysis of new/unknown PFAS and transformation products. Therefore, PFAS sum parameter analysis is becoming increasingly important. For PFAS determination of surface waters, solid phase extraction (SPE) is commonly implemented for clean-up and pre-concentration of samples.
Thus, within this work, single-layer SPE methods (based on Strata™-X, Strata™-X-AW, Strata™-NH2 and Oasis-HLB) were investigated for maximum PFAS coverage utilizing extractable organically bound fluorine (EOF) analysis. Thereby, the optimization procedure relied on the analysis of 3 surface water samples in Berlin, Germany, which were affected by the effluent discharge of wastewater treatment plants. To analyse the SPE elution profiles for EOF and inorganic fluorine, high resolution-continuum source-graphite furnace molecular absorption spectroscopy (HR-CS-GFMAS) and ion chromatography (IC) were used, respectively.
Highest EOF concentrations were achieved by using Strata-X/Strata-XAW as SPE sorbents and methanol as eluent. Furthermore, combinations of the most promising SPE sorbents were selected (X/XAW, XAW/X, HLB/X and WAX/GCB) to extract a wider range of PFASs. By comparing multi-layer SPE methods, lower EOF concentrations were obtained for all investigated combination phases compared to the analysed single phases. For the commercially available combination phase Strata-PFAS (WAX/GCB) for all three river water samples, lower EOF concentrations (1.5 times lower) were determined compared to Strata-X.
The results have shown that single-layer SPE systems are currently superior compared to combination phases for PFAS sum parameter analysis. The multi-layer SPE methods need further optimization regarding appropriate sorbent combinations, loading volumes and elution conditions. The developed single-layer SPE methods can help to elucidate pollutions hotspots and discharge routes.
Advances in ultrafast laser manufacturing: nanostructures, thin films, and scaling perspectives
(2024)
Advanced ultrafast laser technology is a rapidly growing field that currently enables many new industrial and scientific applications. During the last decades, this has been significantly driven by the availability of high-repetition-rate laser sources and novel beam delivery concepts. At the laser side, Moore’s law equally manifests for ultrafast laser technologies, since the average output power of such lasers doubles approximately every two years. This development is mainly driven by the increase of the pulse repetition rates of energetic laser pulses, currently enforcing the development of smart beam control and novel scanning strategies for preventing heat-accumulation and plasma-shielding effects during laser-based materials processing. This keynote presentation addresses the advantages, recent developments, and perspectives of laser processing with ultrashort laser pulses. A special focus is laid on the tailored structuring of thin films as well as the manufacturing and probing of sub-diffraction surface nanostructures – an ongoing race to extreme scales. Current limitations are identified and an outlook to future scaling perspectives will be provided.
Since 2016 ISO Technical Committee (TC) 265 is working on standardization the whole CCS-process chain. Around 30 countries are working together to provide international guidelines. As ISO 27913 was the first standard finished within these activities it is already in the stage of first revision.
The objective of ISO 27913 is “to provide specific requirements and recommendations on certain aspects of safe and reliable design, construction and operation of pipelines intended for the large-scale transportation of CO2 that are not already covered in existing pipeline standards such as ISO 13623, ASME B31.8, EN 1594, AS 2885 or other standards. Existing pipeline standards cover many of the issues related to the design and construction of CO2 pipelines; however, there are some CO2 specific issues that are not adequately covered in these standards. The purpose of this document is to cover these issues consistently. Hence, this document is not a standalone standard, but is written to be a supplement to other existing pipeline standards for natural gas or liquids for both onshore and offshore pipelines.”
This contribution shall provide information on the content, the current stage of the revision process, encourage to contribute to this standard and make listeners aware to consider the influence of ISO standard on documents currently in draft.
Sunlight is an almost unavoidable environmental cue and plays a fundamental role in the biology of pro- and eukaryotic organisms. To cope with sunlight-associated stresses e.g., high temperatures, UV radiation with associated DNA damage, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), desiccation and osmotic stresses, it is important for organisms to accurately sense and respond to changes in light. The benefits of light are obvious for green organisms such as cyanobacteria, algae and plants which use light as an energy source (photosynthesis). Less apparent are other light-dependent processes such as light-driven DNA repair by photolyases (photoreactivation) or ion pumping by microbial opsins. Fungi that can share light-flooded habitats with phototrophs may profit from their excess photosynthetic products. Rock-inhabiting Dothideomycetes and Eurotiomycetes including Knufia petricola possess many proteins for absorbing UV/blue, green, red and far-red light, produce the black 1,8 dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN) melanin and orange-red carotenoids, and may live in multispecies biofilms. Here, we are addressing the question to which extent constitutive pigment formation (melanin and carotenoids) and responses mediated by the stress-activated mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase contribute to the observed light (UV-B) tolerance of K. petricola.
AbstractMicroplastics (MP) can be detected in all environmental systems. Marine and terrestrial aquatic systems, especially the transported suspended solids, have often been the focus of scientific investigations in the past. Sediments of aquatic river systems, on the other hand, were often ignored due to the time‐consuming sample preparation and analysis procedures. Spectroscopic measurement methods counting particle numbers are hardly suitable as detection methods, because there are plenty of natural particles next to a small number of MP particles. Integral methods, such as thermoanalytical methods are determining the particle mass independently of the inorganic components.In this study, a workflow for sample preparation via density separation and subsequent analysis by thermal extraction desorption‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry is presented, which leads to representative and homogeneous samples and allows fast and robust MP mass content measurements suitable for routine analysis. Polymers were identified and quantified in all samples. Polyethylene and styrene‐butadiene rubber are the dominant polymers, besides polypropylene and polystyrene. Overall, total polymer masses between 1.18 and 337.0 µg/g could be determined. Highest MP concentrations in riverbed sediment are found in sites characterized by low flow velocities in harbors and reservoirs, while MP concentrations in sandy/gravelly bed sediments with higher flow velocities are small.
Emission testing of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from materials and products is commonly based on emission test chamber measurements. To ensure the comparability of results from different testing laboratories their measurement performance must be verified. For this purpose, Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) organizes an international proficiency test every two years using well-characterised test materials (one sealant, one furniture board and four times a lacquer) with defined VOC emissions. The materials fulfilled the requirements of homogeneity, reproducibility, and stability. Altogether, 41 VOCs were included of which 37 gave test chamber air concentrations between 10 and 98 µg/m³. This is the typical concentration range to be expected and to be quantified when performing chamber tests. Four compounds had higher concentrations between 250 and 1105 µg/m³. The relative standard deviations (RSD) of BAM proficiency tests since 2008 are compared and the improvement of the comparability of the emission chamber testing is shown by the decrease of the mean RSD down to 23% in 2021. In contrast, the first large European interlaboratory comparison in 1999 showed a mean RSD of 51%.
Related work
Laboratory Study:
Combining Signal Features of Ground-Penetrating Radar to Classify Moisture Damage in Layered Building Floors
https://doi.org/10.3390/app11198820
On-Site Study:
TBA
Doctoral Thesis:
Non-destructive classification of moisture deterioration in layered building floors using ground penetrating radar
https://doi.org/10.14279/depositonce-19306
Measurement Parameters
The GPR measurements were carried out with the SIR 20 from GSSI and a 2 GHz antenna pair (bandwidth 1 GHz to 3 GHz) in common-offset configuration. Each B-Scan consists of N A-Scans, each including 512 samples of a 11 ns time window. Survey lines were recorded with 250 A-Scans/ meter, which equals a 4 mm spacing between each A-Scan No Gains were applied.
Folder Description:
Lab_dry, Lab_insulDamage, Lab_screedDamage
- each contain 168 Measurements (B-Scans) in .csv on 84 dry floors, floors with insulation damage and screed damage.
- each floor setup was measured twice on two orthogonal survey lines, indicated by _Line1_ and _Line2_ in the file name.
- the file names encode the building floor setup e.g. CT50XP100 describes a 50 mm cement screed with 100 mm extruded polystyrene below
- the material codes are
CT: cement screed, CA: anhydrite screed, EP: expanded polystyrene, XP: extruded polystyrene, GW: glass wool, PS: perlites
further information can be found in the publication https://doi.org/10.3390/app11198820
OnSite_
- 5 folders containing B-Scans on 5 different practical moisture damages
- the building floor setup is encoded according to the lab with an additional measurement point numbering at the start and a damage case annotation at the end of the file name with _dry, _insulationDamage and_screedDamage
File Description:
B-Scans, Measurement files - no header
- dimension: 512 x N data point with N beeing the number of A-Scans including 512 samples of a 11 ns time window.
- survey lines were recorded with 250 A-Scans/ meter, which equals a 4 mm spacing between each A-Scan
Moisture References
- Moist_Reference of On-Site Locations include the columns MeasPoint: Measurement point, wt%Screed: moisture content of screed layer in mass percent; wt%Insul: moisture content of insulation layer in mass percent. References were obtained by drilling cores with 68 mm diameter in the center of each survey line.
- Moist_Reference_Screed of Lab data include the columns Screed: Screed material and thickness in mm, wt%Screed moisture content of screed layer in mass percent
- Moist Reference_Insul of Lab data include the columns Insulation: Insulation material and thickness in mm, water addition in l: water added to the insulation layer in liters, V%Insulation: water added to the insulation layer in volume percent, RH%: resulting relative humidy in the insulation layer during measurement. These References are only avaible for Lab measurements on insulation damages.
By automatically recording as much information as possible in automated laboratory setups, reproducibility and traceability of experiments are vastly improved. This presentation shows what such an approach means for the quality of experiments in an X-ray scattering laboratory and an automated synthesis set-up.
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.
Nondestructive testing of gas turbine blades is essential for their maintenance and service process which is critical to ensure both safety and efficiency of these highly stressed parts. In this presentation, a novel ultrasonic testing method is explored in order to acquire part thickness information in the turbine blade’s airfoil. In established industry processes, the measurements are mainly carried out manually and only at a few specific positions of the inspected parts. The proposed method scans the part using a robot arm guiding an ultrasonic array sensor. For ultrasonic coupling to the complex-shaped surface geometry, the inspected part and sensor are immersed into water. A two-step TFM[1, 2] (Total Focusing Method) approach is used to reconstruct the outer and inner surfaces subsequently from the ultrasonic raw data, which are acquired using the FMC[3] (Full Matrix Capture) measurement principle. For each sensor position, the location and geometry of the outer surface is first identified and then used to create an image of an area inside the material. From that image, the inner surface is reconstructed. Finally, part thickness information is deducted from merging location data of inner and outer surface. The result is a high resolution, high precision mapping of the inspected part’s wall thickness.
Sunlight is an almost unavoidable environmental cue and plays a fundamental role in the biology of pro- and eukaryotic organisms. To cope with sunlight-associated stresses e.g., high temperatures, UV radiation, accumulation of reactive oxygen species, desiccation, and osmotic stress, it is important for organisms to accurately sense and respond to changes in light. The benefits of light are obvious for green organisms such as cyanobacteria, algae and plants which use light as an energy source (photosynthesis). Fungi that can share light-flooded habitats with phototrophs may profit from their excess photosynthetic products. Examples are the plant pathogen Botrytis cinerea, the gray mold fungus, and the rock inhabitant Knufia petricola, a microcolonial black fungus which forms multispecies biofilms with bacteria and algae.
Offshore wind energy plays an important role for the desired transition towards a carbon dioxide free industry within the next decades. However, the grounding of the offshore wind plants governs the overall installation process besides bureaucratic bottlenecks.
The application of lightweight principles in steel construction, e.g. the usage dissolved load-bearing structures, so called Jackets foundations, offer great potential in reducing the resource consumption, especially with respect to the needed amount of steel.
In this context this paper focuses on a fully digitalization of the welding manufacturing and as well as testing chain to enable a fully automated manufacturing as well as quality assessment of tubular nodes as key element of Jackets foundation structures. Furthermore, the relationship between the seam shape geometry and resulting fatigue strength is evaluated by numerical methods incorporating bionic principles. It is shown that tubular nodes can be welded fully automatically taking geometry tolerances into account. Moreover, the seam shape could be manufactured as requested by the numerical models which offers great potential for an extended lifetime. Subsequently, the improvements in resource efficiency and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions are evaluated by a life-cycle-assessment.
The European Commission adopted an EU
Energy Label for smartphones and tablets in June 2023. For the
first time, the EU Energy Label will depict, among energy
efficiency, also a reparability score, battery endurance, battery
lifetime, drop resistance and dust and water ingress protection.
However, does the multitude of parameters bear the risk to
confuse consumers instead of triggering environmentally
sustainable purchase decisions? In a survey in Germany,
consumers were asked to make a choice when the label does not
clearly identify the environmentally better product. Instead,
energy efficiency has to be valued against reparability,
reliability against energy efficiency, and reparability against
reliability. The sustainability lever of the different aspects is not
the same, as e.g. lifetime extension has a much more positive
environmental impact than energy efficiency in case of mobile
devices. Therefore, the question remains, whether consumers
intuitively make the right choice. Results of the survey indicate
that consumers interpret the complex label in the desired
manner and value those aspects higher, which indeed have a
more positive effect on the environment.
The overarching goal of this project is to develop a predictive model for efflux-mediated antimicrobial tolerance in bacterial multicellular assemblies. Our central hypostasis is that efflux pump activity causes emergent antibiotic tolerance of multicellular bacterial populations, through the interplay of efflux mediated spatial interactions and efflux-linked persistence. To test this hypothesis, we will use a combination of microscopy, microbial killing assays, computational modelling, and data analysis, integrating information from 3 types of multicellular assembly: colonies, cell-to-cell interactions in a monolayer microfluidic device, and 3D flow chamber biofilms. Building on our preliminary observations, we will experimentally characterize the link between colony structure and spatial patterns of efflux gene expression in strains that differ in their levels of efflux. We will develop a mathematical model to test whether local growth inhibition of neighbors due to effluxing cells, coupled with local environment-dependent regulation of efflux, can account qualitatively for these results. By including persister cell formation in our model we will predict, and measure, the emergent function of antimicrobial tolerance in our colonies. To fully understand how tolerance emerges from the interplay between efflux-mediated spatial interactions and efflux-linked persister cell formation, we need quantitative measurements at the single cell level. To this end, we will use a microfluidic setup with cells growing in a monolayer to qualify in detail the dependence of efflux expression and persister cell formation on nutrient conditions, the correlation between efflux and persister formation, and the spatial range of efflux-mediated neighbour growth inhibition. To predict and quantitatively understand the emergent multicellular function of tolerance, we will perform individual-based modelling of biofilm growth, using as input the parameters measured on the single-cell level with our microfluidics experiments. Our simulations will predict biofilm spatial structure development, patterns of efflux and persister formation and, ultimately, tolerance to antimicrobial challenge. These predictions will be directly tested in flow-cell biofilm experiments. We are currently generating acrAB-tolC knockout-strain, without efflux activity, and a strain with an inducible acrAB-tolC efflux pump. To distinguish the different strains under the microscope, they were labeled with genes encoding for different fluorescent proteins. All strains are currently characterized in terms of growth, minimum inhibitory concentration of different antimicrobial substances, colony morphology, and biofilm formation ability. On the theoretical side, we are currently working on modeling the system at various scales and degree of detail, ranging from coarse-grained continuum models to stochastic, individual-based models. Some exploratory work was doe to test existing software for individual-based modelling that may be adapted for our purpose. Furthermore, we are in the process of developing more coarse-grained models. This work involves some physiological modelling and literature search, focusing on working mechanisms of efflux pumps and kinetic models for import and export of antibiotics.
Consequences of tolerance to disinfectants on the evolution of antibiotic resistance in E. coli
(2023)
Biocides are used as disinfectants and preservatives; one important active substance in biocides is benzalkonium chloride (BAC). BAC-tolerant bacterial strains can survive short treatments with high concentrations of BAC. BAC tolerance and resistance have been linked to antibiotic resistance. Here, the selection dynamics between a BAC-tolerant Escherichia coli strain and a sensitive wild type were investigated under four conditions: in the absence of antibiotics and in the presence of three different sub-inhibitory concentrations of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin in liquid cultures. The wild type was selected over the BAC-tolerant strain in the absence of antibiotics, while the BAC-tolerant strain was selected over the wild type at all ciprofloxacin concentrations investigated, with a minimum selection concentration (MSC) of 1/10th of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the wild type. Furthermore, the evolvability of resistance of the two strains to inhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin was assessed by performing a serial dilution evolution experiment with gradually increasing ciprofloxacin concentrations. The wild type had a higher probability to develop resistance
to ciprofloxacin than the tolerant strain. By the end of the evolution experiment both strains evolved to grow at the highest ciprofloxacin concentration investigated, which was 2048 ×MIC of the wild type. The importance of these results is highlighted by the fact that concentrations of ciprofloxacin well above the calculated MSC can be found in environmental samples such as hospital wastewaters and livestock slurry. In turn, BAC is used as a disinfectant in the same settings. Thus, the selection of BAC-tolerant strains at sub-inhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin can contribute to the stabilization and spread of BAC-tolerance in natural populations. The prevalence of such strains can impair the effects of BAC disinfections.
The contamination of drinking water with pharmaceuticals represents a severe health risk. In order to monitor the drinking water quality continuously and enable quick countermeasures in case of contamination, novel sensors are required. Here, immunoanalytical methods based on the binding of the analyte to highly selective antibodies can be helpful. In this work, magnetic bead-based immunoassays (MBBAs) have been developed for the detection of two relevant contaminants of drinking water: diclofenac (DCF) and amoxicillin (AMX). In case of the latter, not only the parent drug is of interest in the risk assessment but also its hydrolysis products (HPs). In a comprehensive study, the influence of external factors and intrinsic properties of the water on the rate of hydrolysis was investigated. As the hydrolysis of AMX further impacts the recognition by the antibody, a strategy to analyze samples with unknown hydrolysis degree of AMX was established employing the enzyme β-lactamase in sample preparation. For both analytes, the MBBAs enable the fast quantification with results obtained in less than one hour which represents a major improvement over conventional immunoassays like the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Compared to the respective ELISAs with the same antibodies, the MBBAs further exhibit improved analytical parameters such as a broader measurement range and lower limits of detection. Due to the magnetic properties of the beads that serve as a platform for the assays, they are suitable for the mobile and automated detection at the point-of-care. An integrated diagnostic system was designed in which electrochemical detection with chronoamperometry on a microfluidic chip allows for further miniaturization of the system to enable monitoring of the drinking water quality online in water supply pipes at waterworks.
Half of the global material consumption is mineral material. The circularity is still low so that enhanced use of secondary building material is required to close loops. Three different secondary building materials are discussed based on exemplary research results: construction and demolition waste (C&D waste), soil-like material and incineration bottom ash (IBA). Focus was laid on the environmental compatibility of the materials examined mainly by standardized leaching tests. C&D waste was investigated after a wet treatment using a jigging machine, soil-like material and IBA were characterized with respect to their material composition. The environmental compatibility in particular was studied using standard leaching tests (batch tests and column tests). It was concluded that soil-like material can mostly be utilized even when the precautionary limit values set are exceeded by a factor of less than 2. For C&D waste the fine fraction below 2 mm and the content of brick material is problematic. IBA fulfills quality level HMVA-2 following German regulation. Higher quality levels of utilization might be achievable with better treatment technologies.
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.
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.
This seminar series comprises three lectures on drones and ground robots capable of sensing chemical substances and two accompanying hands-on workshops on nano drones equipped with chemical sensors. In the first lecture, Dr. Neumann will talk on a summary of aerial robot olfaction and his research. In the second and third lectures, more details of the nano drones equipped with chemical sensors will be provided, and the participants can get hands on experience of the nano
drones in the accompanying workshops. The lectures will be given in English. This seminar series is supported by FY2023 Researcher Exchanges Program in UEC.
This seminar series comprises three lectures on drones and ground robots capable of sensing chemical substances and two accompanying hands-on workshops on nano drones equipped with chemical sensors. In the first lecture, Dr. Neumann will talk on a summary of aerial robot olfaction and his research. In the second and third lectures, more details of the nano drones equipped with chemical sensors will be provided, and the participants can get hands on experience of the nano
drones in the accompanying workshops. The lectures will be given in English. This seminar series is supported by FY2023 Researcher Exchanges Program in UEC.
This seminar series comprises three lectures on drones and ground robots capable of sensing chemical substances and two accompanying hands-on workshops on nano drones equipped with chemical sensors. In the first lecture, Dr. Neumann will talk on a summary of aerial robot olfaction and his research. In the second and third lectures, more details of the nano drones equipped with chemical sensors will be provided, and the participants can get hands on experience of the nano drones in the accompanying workshops. The lectures will be given in English. This seminar series is supported by FY2023 Researcher Exchanges Program in UEC.
Gypsum (CaSO4∙2H2O), bassanite (CaSO4∙0.5H2O), and anhydrite (CaSO4) are essential evaporite minerals for the evolution of hyper-arid surface environments on Earth and Mars (Voigt et al. 2019; Vaniman et al. 2018). The formation mechanism of especially anhydrite has been a matter of scientific debate for more than a century (van’t Hoff et al. 1903). To date, there exists no model that can reliably predict anhydrite formation at earth’s surface conditions. While thermodynamics favor its formation, it is hardly achieved on laboratory time scales at conditions fitting either the Atacama Desert on Earth, or the surface of Mars (Wehmann et al. 2023). In light of most recent developments (e.g. Stawski et al. 2016), that advocate for a complex, non-classical nucleation mechanism for all calcium sulphates, we present an analysis of natural samples from the Atacama Desert to identify key features that promote the nucleation and growth of anhydrite under planetary surface conditions. Our analyses reveal at least three distinct anhydrite facies, with differing mineralogy and micro- to nano-structures. The facies are (1) aeolian deposits with sub-μm grain sizes, (2) (sub-)surface nodules that formed from aeolian deposits and (3) selenites with secondary anhydrite rims. Possible mechanisms of their formation will be discussed.
LIBS‐ConSort: Development of a sensor‐based sorting method for construction and demolition waste
(2023)
AbstractA joint project of partners from industry and research institutions approaches the challenge of construction and demolition waste (CDW) sorting by investigating and testing the combination of laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and visual imaging. Joint processing of information (data fusion) is expected to significantly improve the sorting quality of various materials like concrete, main masonry building materials, organic components, etc., and may enable the detection and separation of impurities such as SO3‐cotaining building materials (gypsum, aerated concrete, etc.)Focusing on Berlin as an example, the entire value chain will be analyzed to minimize economic / technological barriers and obstacles at the cluster level and to sustainably increase recovery and recycling rates.The objective of this paper is to present current progress and results of the test stand development combining LIBS with NIR spectroscopy and visual imaging. In the future, this laboratory prototype will serve as a fully automated measurement setup to allow real‐time classification of CDW on a conveyor belt.
Steelmaking slag is a by-product of steel production, of which 4.5 Mt were produced in 2020 in Germany alone. It is mainly used in road construction, earthwork and hydraulic engineering. A smaller part is returned to the metallurgical cycle, used as fertiliser or landfilled.
With this use, iron oxides still contained in steelmaking slag are lost. In addition, the possibility of producing higher-grade products from steelmaking slag is foregone. In recent decades, many researchers have investigated the production of Portland cement clinker and crude iron from basic oxygen furnace slags (BOFS) via a reductive treatment. Carbothermal treatment of liquid BOFS causes a reduction of iron oxides to metallic iron, which separates from the mineral phase due to its higher density. Simultaneously, the chemical composition of the reduced slag is adapted to that of Portland cement clinker.
In this study, German BOFS was reduced in a small-scale electric arc furnace using petrol coke as a reducing agent. The resulting low-iron mineral product has a similar chemical composition to Portland cement clinker and was rich in the tricalcium silicate solid solution alite (Ca3SiO5). Based on its chemical and mineralogical composition, similar to that of Portland cement clinker, the reduced BOFS has the potential to react comparably. In our study, the reduced BOFS produced less hydration heat than OPC, and its hydraulic reaction was delayed. However, adding gypsum has shown to accelerate the hydration rate of the reduced BOFS compared to that known from the calcium silicates of Portland cement clinker.
Further research to improve the hydraulic properties of the reduced slag is essential. If successful, producing a hydraulic binder and crude iron from BOFS has economic and ecological benefits for both the cement and steel industries.
Digital twin for hydrogen refueling stations: An analytical study for safe and efficient operations
(2023)
This analytical overview is the initial study in developing the digital sensors twin for the hydrogen refueling station. The research includes a comprehensive analysis of the current literature, refueling protocol, standards, mathematical model, simulation model, and trends in digital twins and H2 technologies. Furthermore, this study has explored the various HRS attributes, such as leakage, temperature, pressure, and hydrogen flow, and identified different use cases of the hydrogen fuel station to build a digital sensor twin. Various real gas equations, such as the Van der Waals and Able-Noble equation of state (EOS), are applied to analyze the key factors and parameters affecting hydrogen and the MATLAB simulation model to validate the key elements and parameters. This study also focuses on identifying and addressing research gaps in hydrogen technology, contributing to advancing hydrogen infrastructure, and supporting the global transition to cleaner energy solutions.
Heterogeneous construction and demolition waste can be used as raw material to produce lightweight aggregates (LWA) similar to expanded clays. In the joint research project “REALight”, LWA were produced from masonry rubble in a thermal expanding process using a pilot production plant with a rotary kiln. Our research focuses on the characterisation of the novel LWA and their use in different hydraulically bound applications.
Infra-lightweight concrete (ILC) was produced with the novel LWA, which accounts for two thirds of total aggregate volume, and Celitement, which is a hydraulic binder with a low carbon footprint. Its dry bulk density is ≤ 800 kg/m³. Strength and durability properties are comparable to ILC data from the literature.
Lime-based repair mortars (LRM) containing LWA are beneficial for sandstone conservation due to their similar properties regarding porosity, water absorption and strength. A two-layer repair mortar system, which consists of a filling mortar to fill large voids and a covering mortar to modulate the surface texture to the historic sandstone, was developed.
In our contribution, we present results of the LWA characterisation according to the European standard EN 13055:2016. Requirements and challenges of the use of the novel LWA in ILC and LRM are discussed.
Gypsum (CaSO4∙2H2O) and anhydrite (CaSO4) are among the dominant evaporite minerals in the Atacama Desert [1]. They are distributed ubiquitously, and play a key role in local landscape evolution.
The formation mechanism of especially anhydrite has been a matter of scientific debate for more than a century [2]. To date, there exists no model that can reliably predict anhydrite formation at earth’s surface conditions. While thermodynamics favor its formation [3], it is hardly achieved on laboratory time scales at conditions fitting the Atacama Desert. Long induction times for nucleation have recently been modeled by Ossorio et al. [4]. However, anhydrite can be readily found in the Atacama Desert. Recently, the mineral was synthesized in flow-through reactors as a byproduct of K-jarosite dissolution at high water activity (aw=0.98) and room temperature [5], even-though the thermodynamic stability field begins only under a value of ~0.8. Additionally, recent studies investigated the nano-structure of various calcium-sulfates, which advocate for highly non-classical crystallization behavior [6]. The specific roles of particulates, ionic or organic reagents working as catalysts for the non-classical crystallization pathway remain to be determined.
Here, we present recent results from flow-through experiments as well as analyses of anhydrite samples from the Atacama Desert. Flow-through experiments were performed to systematically explore the domains of flow rate, composition, ionic-strengths and starting materials. Neither primary, nor secondary anhydrite was produced in any of these experiments. Analyses on Atacama samples reveal the existence of at least three distinct anhydrite facies, with differing mineralogy and micro- to nano-structures. The facies are (1) aeolian deposits with sub-µm grain sizes, (2) (sub-)surface nodules that formed from aeolian deposits and (3) selenites with secondary anhydrite rims. Possible mechanisms of their formation will be discussed.
Algal biofilm façades are an alternative to traditional green façades which can help to improve biodiversity and air quality within cities. They present a low maintenance approach in which subaerial algae are grown directly on concrete substrates. The intrinsic bioreceptivity of the substrate is a critical factor in successful facade colonisation. Existing research has identified several environmental and material properties which influence concrete bioreceptivity, however a consensus has yet to be made on which properties are most influential and how the interaction between properties may promote algal biofilm growth under specific conditions.
Even after autoclaving for 2 weeks in the temperature range of 120 to 200 °C, CEM I paste with a water-to-cement ratio of 0.5 still contains some low-crystalline C-S-H. The conversion of low-crystalline C-S-H to crystalline is faster with increasing temperature. The observed low-crystalline and crystalline C-S-H phases (reinhardbraunsite, jaffeite) indicate that the sampleshave not reached equilibrium yet under these experimental conditions. However, there is a good agreement between experiment and thermodynamic modelling for the other solids indicating that the used datasets are suitable for this application.
High polarity analyte(s) in aqueous media: determination of L-PFOA and L-PFOS in ground water
(2022)
The CCQM-K156 comparison was coordinated by TUBITAK UME on behalf of the Organic Analysis Working Group (OAWG) of the Comité Consultatif pour la Quantité de Matière (CCQM) for National Measurement Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) which provide measurement services in organic analysis under the 'Comité International des Poids et Mesures' Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Perfluoro alkyl substances (PFAS) such as PFOS and PFOA have been used in numerous industrial applications and products. Because of their high stability and resistance to biodegradation, atmospheric photooxidation, direct photolysis and hydrolysis, they are extremely persistent in the environment. The European Union (EU) Water Framework Directive lists PFOS as a priority hazardous substance that poses a significant risk to the aquatic environment. The use of PFOS-containing Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFFs) has been banned since June 2011 in the EU. As relatively water-soluble, effectively non-degradable compounds, PFOS and PFOA migrate to ground water. They are not removed in the conventional drinking water treatment, and therefore cause health risks in polluted areas. The EU Drinking Water Directive and the European Commission has proposed a limit value of 100 ng/L for the sum of 20 PFAS, including PFOS and PFOA.
This study provides the means for assessing measurement capabilities for determination of high polarity measurands in a procedure that requires extraction, clean-up, analytical separation and detection. Successful participation in CCQM-K156 demonstrates measurement capabilities in determining mass fraction of organic compounds, with a molecular mass of 200 g/mol to 700 g/mol, having high polarity pKow -2, in a mass fraction range from 0.5 ng/kg to 500 ng/kg in aqueous media.
Nine NMIs and DIs participated in the CCQM-K156 key comparison. Seven institutes reported their results. SPE was applied in the sample pre-treatment and LC-MS was applied for detection. All participating laboratories applied isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) techniques for quantification. Participants established the metrological traceability of their results using certified reference materials (CRMs) from NMIs with stated traceability; where commercially available high purity materials were used the purity was determined in-house. The CCQM-K156 results for L-PFOA and L-PFOS range from 2.75 ng/kg to 5.50 ng/kg with a % RSD of 19.5 % for L-PFOA and from 2.04 ng/kg to 4.45 ng/kg with a % RSD of 21.3 % for L-PFOS. The KCRV was assigned using a Hierarchical Bayesian Random Effects Model (HB REM) estimator from the values reported by six of the participants. One participant result of L-PFOS and one result of L-PFOA were excluded from the KCRV for technical reasons. The KCRV was 4.9 ng/kg ± 0.4 ng/kg for L-PFOA and 3.8 ng/kg ± 0.4 ng/kg for L-PFOS. The six institutes that were included in the assignment of consensus KCRV all agreed within their standard uncertainties.
To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.
The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
In particular, the rapid development of lateral flow assays as indispensable tools for everyone to contain the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has fuelled the global demand for analytical tests that can be used outside dedicated laboratories. In addition to their use in medical diagnostics, rapid tests and assays have become increasingly important in various fields such as food safety, security, forensics, and environmental management. The advantage is obvious: taking the assay directly to the sample minimizes the time between suspicion and decision-making, allowing faster action. Especially today, when mobile communication devices with powerful computing capabilities and built-in cameras are ubiquitous, more people than ever before around the world have the basic skills to operate a powerful detector at their fingertips. This sets the stage for a much wider use of analytical measurements in terms of prognosis and prevention, enabling professional laypersons in particular.
However, current strip-based systems are primarily focused on single parameter analysis, whether it is SARS-CoV-2 biomarkers, blood glucose levels, or lead concentrations in water samples. Industrial applications of such methods also often still rely on single-parameter assays, requiring multiple runs even for a limited number of key parameters. Overcoming these limitations depends on developing low-number multiplexing strategies that ensure robustness, reliability, speed, ease of use, and sensitivity.
This lecture will give an overview of several generic approaches developed in recent years to address these challenges. It will highlight how the synergy of supramolecular (bio)chemistry, luminescence detection, hybrid (nano)materials and device miniaturization can result in powerful (bio)analytical assays that can be used at a point-of-need.1-5 Selected examples will introduce key aspects of such systems that include tailored signaling mechanisms and recognition elements, materials functionalization and device integration, including hybrid nanomaterials, gated indicator release systems, strip modification, and smartphone-based analysis.
Gas source localization (GSL) helps mitigate the impact of industrial accidents and natural disasters. While GSL may be dangerous and time-consuming when performed by humans, swarms of agile and inexpensive nano aerial robots may increase the safety and efficiency of gas source localizations. Since the small payloads of nano aerial robots limit the sensing and computing resources, strategies adapted from biological swarms, such as colonies of social insects, are used to coordinate robot
swarms. Most swarm GSL strategies are based on the assumption that the maxima of gas concentrations are sufficiently close to the gas sources. However, prior studies have indicated that the occurrence of “bouts”, a metric for the intermittency of gas distributions, may advantageously be used as a more accurate gas source proximity indicator. This paper presents a swarm GSL strategy employing bouts as source proximity indicators and a bio-inspired pheromone system for communication. Nano aerial robots, deployed in this study, act as agents and emit
pheromone markers in an artificial environment upon detecting bouts. Leveraging the concept of artificial potential fields, the agents switch between exploiting the knowledge of the swarm by following pheromone gradients and exploring the search space by targeting a random point. The agents are repelled by each other and by walls to avoid collisions. The swarm GSL strategy is implemented into three nano aerial robots and validated in a real-world experiment in an indoor environment with a single gas source. The results indicate that the the swarm GSL strategy
presented in this paper is capable of GSL in indoor environments and that the intermittency of gas distributions is a better source proximity indicator than the mean concentration.
In construction and demolition waste (CDW) recycling, the preference to date has been to apply simple but proven techniques to sort and process large quantities of construction rubble in a short time. This contrasts with the increasingly complex composite materials and structures in the mineral building materials industry. An automated, sensor-based sorting of these building materials could complement or replace the practice of manual sorting to improve processing speed, recycling rates, sorting quality, and prevailing health conditions for the executing staff.
A joint project of partners from industry and research institutions approaches this task by investigating and testing the combination of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and visual imaging. Joint processing of information (data fusion) is expected to significantly improve the sorting quality of CDW, and may enable the detection and separation of impurities such as SO3-cotaining building materials (gypsum, aerated concrete, etc.)
We present current advances and results about the methodological development combining LIBS with NIR spectroscopy and visual imaging. Here, applying data fusion proves itself beneficial to improve recognition rates. In the future, a laboratory prototype will serve as a fully automated measurement setup to allow real-time classification of CDW on a conveyor belt.
The increasing use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP), as lightweight materials essential for the transformation, demands for a safe treatment option of carbon fiber (CF) containing waste streams. Because of their low reactivity towards oxidation processes, CF can neither be treated in a conventional nor hazardous waste incineration plant. Even the extremely high temperature in a cement rotary kiln does not lead to full conversion. To increase the sustainability of CF, other processes need to be investigated. Opening other reaction pathways, using CF waste streams as secondary resource in pyrometallurgy to replace fossil carbon, can be a solution for a safe and sustainable treatment. To support the industrial application, experiments on different scales were conducted. Here, results of thermochemical investigations, reactivity studies, crucible experiments and pilot plat trials are reported.
The increasing use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP), as lightweight materials essential for the transformation, demands for a safe treatment option of carbon fiber (CF) containing waste streams. Because of their low reactivity towards oxidation processes, CF can neither be treated in a conventional nor hazardous waste incineration plant. Even the extremely high temperature in a cement rotary kiln does not lead to full conversion. To increase the sustainability of CF, other processes need to be investigated. Opening other reaction pathways, using CF waste streams as secondary resource in pyrometallurgy to replace fossil carbon, can be a solution for a safe and sustainable treatment. After first small scale experiments, CF containing waste streams were used as reductant in a semi-industrial scale electric arc furnace (EAF). First results and impressions are presented.
Woodworms, carpet beetles, clothes moths and termites are well known pests on artifacts of cultural importance. Lately also silverfish have gained importance. Protection of our cultural heritage for future generations is not a new task but the methods have changed. Conventional use of pesticides in the past has preserved precious objects up to the presence, which otherwise probably would have been lost over time due to the destruction by insects and microbes. However, several of the objects were contaminated with poisons in such a manner that they became unsafe to be handled and thus are useless for exhibitions or scientific studies.
Today, the concept of Integrated Museum Pest Management (IMPM) provides guidance for non-residue treatments of infested objects, followed by save storage or display under pest free (or maximum pest reduced) environments. Inert fumigants, physical and biological control measure, precise monitoring, threshold evaluations and detailed knowledge of the pest`s biology are key elements within IMPM.
Woodworms, clothes moths and termites, however, are not always considered as only pests. Some professionals have also used them to produce new pieces of art or for the installation of ephemeral displays. Under more or less controlled conditions, the insects´ destructive nature on wood or textiles has been turned around to a process of creation with aesthetic or philosophical messages.
Destructive or creative - it just depends on the point of view!
Heterogeneous construction and demolition waste can be used as raw material to produce lightweight aggregates (LWA) similar to expanded clays. In the joint research project “REALight”, LWA were produced from masonry rubble in a thermal expanding process using a pilot production plant with a rotary kiln. Our research focuses on the characterisation of the novel LWA and their use in different hydraulically bound applications.
Infra-lightweight concrete (ILC) was produced with the novel LWA, which accounts for two thirds of total aggregate volume, and Celitement, which is a hydraulic binder with a low carbon footprint. Its dry bulk density is ≤ 800 kg/m³. Strength and durability properties are comparable to ILC data from the literature.
Lime-based repair mortars (LRM) containing LWA are beneficial for sandstone conservation due to their similar properties regarding porosity, water absorption and strength. A two-layer repair mortar system, which consists of a filling mortar to fill large voids and a covering mortar to modulate the surface texture to the historic sandstone, was developed.
In our contribution, we present results of the LWA characterisation according to the European standard EN 13055:2016. Requirements and challenges of the use of the novel LWA in ILC and LRM are discussed.
Melanins are organic pigments produced by most fungi. These organisms either fix these pigments in their cell wall or secrete them into their extracellular environment to protect themselves against an array of physicochemical stresses (e.g., UV irradiation, desiccation, ...). Melanin can adsorb metals like Fe. How this affects fungal uptake of Fe and deterioration of Fe-containing minerals and metals is however less known. To study this, we use the model fungi Knufia petricola A95, a rock-inhabiting fungus known to deteriorate minerals and have melanised cell walls, and Amorphotheca resinae, able to contaminate fuel tanks, secrete melanin and corrode metals. In K. petricola, we have deleted genes involved in melanin production and Fe uptake using CRISPR/Cas. Through comparison of the geochemical signatures of these gene deletion mutants with those of the wild type (WT), we explore the specific mineral/metal deterioration mechanisms of melanised fungi.
Fe isotope signatures of the biomass of melanin- and Fe uptake-deficient mutants of K. petricola revealed that Fe adsorbed either directly onto melanin or after being reduced by Fe reductases. Importantly, once adsorbed to melanin, Fe could not be mobilised and taken up into the cell: both the WT and its melanin-deficient mutant, previously grown at Fe replete conditions, showed similar growth at Fe deficient conditions.
Olivine dissolution experiments revealed that Fe oxidation inhibits dissolution. K. petricola was able to enhance dissolution when this inhibition is strongest (at pH 6) and prevented dissolution when this inhibition is weakest (at pH 4). The fungus therefore dissolves olivine by interacting with the oxidised Fe at the olivine surface. However, Fe uptake did not seem to be involved: mutants deficient in various Fe uptake mechanism dissolved olivine at the same rate as the WT. This indicates that Fe adsorption onto melanin might play a key role. This is also shown by K. petricola’s ability to enhance olivine dissolution even further if secreting a melanin precursor and A. resinae’s corrosion of carbon steel whilst secreting melanin. Combined, our results imply that the Fe adsorbed to melanin cannot be taken up but enables fungi to deteriorate Fe-containing substrates at a higher rate.
Steelmaking slag is a by-product of steel production of which 4.5 Mt were produced in 2020 in Germany alone. It is mainly used in road construction, earthwork and hydraulic engineering. A smaller part is returned to the metallurgical circle, used as fertilizer or landfilled.
With this use, iron oxides still contained in steelmaking slag are lost. In addition, the possibility of producing higher-grade products from steelmaking slag is foregone. In recent decades, many researchers have investigated the production of Portland cement clinker and crude iron from basic oxygen furnace slags (BOFS) via a reductive treatment. Carbothermal treatment of liquid BOFS causes a reduction of iron oxides to metallic iron, which separates from the mineral phase due to its higher density. Simultaneously, the chemical composition of the reduced slag is adapted to that of the Portland cement clinker.
In this study, German BOFS was reduced in a small-scale electric arc furnace using petrol coke as a reducing agent. The resulting low-iron mineral product had a similar chemical composition to Portland cement clinker and was rich in the tricalcium silicate solid solution alite (Ca3SiO5). Based on its chemical and mineralogical composition, similar to that of Portland cement clinker, the reduced BOFS has the potential to react comparably. In our study, the reduced BOFS produced less heat of hydration compared to OPC and its hydraulic reaction was delayed. However, adding gypsum has been shown to accelerate the hydration rate of the reduced BOFS compared to that known from the calcium silicates of Portland cement clinker.
Further research to improve the hydraulic properties of the reduced slag is essential. If successful, producing a hydraulic binder and crude iron from BOFS could have economic and ecological benefits for both the cement and steel industry.
Biocides are used for a wide range of purposes, including disinfectants or preservatives. They play a major role in the prevention of microbial infections in healthcare and animal husbandry. The use of biocides often leads to the discharge of active biocidal substances into wastewater streams, causing the exposure of wastewater microbial communities to subinhibitory concentrations. In turn, it is known that wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are hotspots for antibiotic resistant bacteria. Since similar mechanisms confer resistance to biocides and antibiotics, exposure to biocides can result in co-selection of antibiotic resistant bacteria in WWTP Here, we want to investigate co-selection processes of antibiotic resistance in natural WWTP microbial communities upon biocide exposure. Microbial communities were sampled at the WWTP Ruhleben in Berlin and characterized regarding their susceptibility against different clinically relevant antibiotics. To investigate the link between biocide exposure and antibiotic resistance, changes in the susceptibility level after exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of the commonly used biocide didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) will be determined by enumerating resistant and non-resistant E. coli on selective plates with and without antibiotics and DDAC. In case of antibiotics, clinical breakpoint concentrations according to EUCAST will be used to discriminate between susceptible and resistant strains. In case of DDAC (and biocides in general), clinical breakpoints do not exist. Therefore, we determined a cut-off concentration at which the majority of naturally-occurring E. coli strains cannot grow anymore based on (I) the MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) distribution, and (II) by plating wastewater communities onto selective indicator agar plates loaded with increasing DDAC concentration. Additionally, antibiotic cross-resistance will be determined by spotting single colonies, isolated from DDAC-selective plates onto antibiotic plates. The results of our experiments will help to determine selective concentrations and to estimate the risk of antibiotic co-selection and cross-resistance in microbial WWTP communities upon biocide exposure.
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.
Surfaces of metallic copper and copper alloys effectively inactivate microorganisms and viruses. However, the exact inactivation mode is still under debate. Main factors are assumed to include direct contact with the metallic surface, influx of Cu(I)/Cu(II) ions and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are frequently reported to act antibacterial, mainly by prevention of bacterial adhesion due to a limited number of possible adhesion points or by increasing the overall surface of intrinsically antibacterial materials. In time-kill experiments with E. coli and S. aureus we analyzed the impact of LIPSS on the toxicity of metallic copper and brass. We also conducted ROS accumulation assays and conclude that the application of LIPSS is not generally straight forward to obtain or improve antibacterial surfaces. Thus, the antibacterial effects of LIPPS.
Generation of Cryomyces antarcticus mutants to explore the importance of DHN melanin for survival
(2023)
Cryomyces antarcticus, a cryptoendolithic melanized fungus endemic to Antarctica (phylum Ascomycota, class Dothideomycetes incertae sedis), has demonstrated high capability to survive extreme environmental conditions like those found in space (e.g., ionizing radiation, vacuum, microgravity), thus fueling fundamental astrobiological questions like “the search for life beyond Earth”. Its extraordinary resilience has been attributed to the presence of thick, highly melanized cell walls, which may contain both DHN and DOPA melanins. To better understand the contribution of DHN melanin to the overall resilience of C. antarcticus, we decided to generate melanin-deficient mutants by genetic engineering. For this, the melanin-PKS (polyketide synthase)- encoding ortholog was identified in the C. antarcticus CBS 116301 genome and used to design primers for re-sequencing of the capks1 locus in the strain CCFEE 515. Based on the genetic toolkit developed for the black fungus Knufia petricola, we designed a strategy for mutating capks1. Protoplasts of C. antarcticus CCFEE 515 were generated and co-transformed with a circular AMA-containing plasmid for expression and in-vivo assembly of Cas9 and two capks1-specific sgRNAs and a PCR-generated donor DNA i.e., a hygromycin resistance cassette flanked by ~75-bp-long sequences homologous to the capks1 locus. Transformation of C. antarcticus is challenging because of its very slow growth and uncertain gene copy number. It took six months from obtaining enough biomass for cell wall lysis to transferring the putatively resistant transformants for genotyping, but we eventually managed to generate three independent non-melanized (whitish) Δcapks1 mutants! We are now awaiting first complemented strains as ultimate genetic transformation control. They are considered to have a wild-type-like pigmentation due to the reintroduction of the wild-type capks1 into the Δcapks1 mutant.
Bacteria are ubiquitous and colonize all types of surfaces, including those in close proximity to humans, such as skin, food, and everyday objects. This raises the question of whether their presence represents a problem to be mitigated or a potential source of benefit to be harnessed, thereby stimulating scientific inquiry into the role of surface-associated bacteria in diverse domains ranging fromhuman health to industrial biotechnology. Aim: The objective of this project is to explore the impact of modifying surface topography on bacterial adhesion behavior. By manipulating the physical characteristics of the substrate, the attachment and detachment dynamics of bacteria can potentially be modified, leading to novel strategies for controlling bacterial colonization in various applications, such as medical devices. Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were tested on LIPSS-covered Fused Silica samples.
Human-made systems, also called “build environment” or “technosphere”, sustain human comfort as well as our industrial activities. These systems have become particularly widespread since the Industrial Revolution, i.e., since the 17th century. At the same time, these technical systems – buildings, monuments, energy production, transformation and transmission, water purification and supply systems - serve as new habitats for living organisms.
Life is ubiquitously present on our planet since a very long time: the Earth is 4.54 billion years old and microbial communities have played a key role on our planet for 3.7 billion years. Once human-made system appeared, microorganisms became an integral part of all types of technosphere infrastructure as well.
Here we will illustrate biosphere-technosphere interactions using a specific example of the black fungi and their impact on the efficiency of solar (photovoltaic) panels. This expanding renewable infrastructure for electricity generation is growing on all continents - and create a specific, arid habitat for stress-tolerant black fungi.
Black fungi were once discovered in hot and cold natural deserts – and now belong to the persistent colonisers of human-made deserts of solar parks. This new niche is evolving an impressive biodiversity. So far more than 60 isolates of black fungi belonging to Arthoniomycetes, Eurotiomycetes and Dothideomycetes were obtained from solar panels in Europe and Americas. Here we will present the analysis of this emerging anthropogenic biodiversity.
Opportunities for future research in the field include quantification of the microbial load on technosphere surfaces – along with characterisation of the corresponding microbial diversity. The strategy of precise measurement and characterisation will enable us to reliably determine the beneficial and harmful functions that living microorganisms play in the functioning of energy-generating systems – and technosphere in general.
This presentation was held in an OECD Webinar introducing the newly developed and published OECD TG 125 on particle size and size distribution. The presentation is explaining the structure if the TG 125 and addresses all included methods and methodologies in a short and understandable way for the broader public. The presentation includes sections about nano-particles and nano-fibres.
Each year, an immense amount of plastic debris enters marine ecosystems, much of which ends up in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP). The plastic fragments are home to a diverse community of microorganisms, and while researchers have gained a better understanding of these marine plastic biofilms, we lack insights into the physiology and genomic potential of the bacteria that colonize them. Examining the lifestyle of plastic colonizers from the GPGP is particularly intriguing, as the high concentration of plastics in this accumulation zone might allow for a microbial adaptation to this unique man-made habitat. A range of pigmentation was observed in 67 isolated strains obtained directly from plastic pieces sampled from the GPGP surface water. Sequence comparison between the cultivated bacterial strains and the 16S rRNA gene amplicon dataset confirmed that most of the cultivates could also be captured through DNA-only methods. Whole genome analysis of four taxonomically diverse representatives revealed multiple carotenoid pathways, including those to produce less common glycosylated carotenoids, like sarcinaxanthin glucoside. Further, we identified a potentially new Rhodobacteraceae species containing a photosynthetic gene cluster (PGC). Absorption analysis confirmed the actual production of the carotenoids and bacteriochlorophyll a. Floating plastics represent a habitat with strong UV-light exposure, making the protection with antioxidant carotenoids as well as the ability to use light as an energy source highly beneficial traits for plastic colonizers. Our findings indicate, that the production of pigments is a common adaption mechanism for plastic-associated bacteria, and that plastic biofilms present a so far overlooked source of rare carotenoids and light-harvesting mechanisms.
Glutaraldehyde (GTA) is commonly used to disinfect medical equipment, in animal husbandry and in hydraulic fracturing. Its wide use bears the risk that microorganisms in different environments are exposed to potentially non-lethal doses of glutaraldehyde. To date, little is known about the effects of glutaraldehyde on the susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotics and its role in the selection of tolerant phenotypes.
Objectives
• To determine the effect of glutaraldehyde exposure on the survival of E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa to antibiotics
• To find the mechanistic basis for antibiotic tolerance upon glutaraldehyde exposure
Materials & Methods
Four bacterial isolates were exposed to sub-inhibitory glutaraldehyde. Antibiotic tolerance was determined by time-kill assays. Regrowth dynamics (lag times) were determined with ScanLag. E. coli was further investigated, using RNAseq to identify genes and processes involved in antibiotic tolerance. Mutants of candidate genes were screened for their antibiotic tolerance and heterogeneous target gene expression under stressed and unstressed conditions.
Results
Short-term exposure to sub-inhibitory levels of glutaraldehyde induced tolerance to high doses of bactericidal antibiotics. Tolerance to antibiotics was associated with highly heterogeneous regrowth dynamics and global transcriptome remodeling. Differentially expressed genes represented diverse biological functions and cellular components, including antibiotic efflux, metabolic processes, and the cell envelope. The heterogeneous regrowth dynamics and the diversity of the differentially expressed genes are likely related to the unspecific mode-of-action of glutaraldehyde. Among the many differentially expressed genes, several genes were identified that were not previously associated with antibiotic tolerance or persistence, which, when overexpressed alone, increased antibiotic tolerance.
Conclusion
Our results highlight how the big advantage of a disinfectant, its unspecific mode-of-action, can induce transient tolerance to antibiotics in bacteria. These findings have implications for 1.) settings where disinfectants and antibiotics are used in proximity, such as hospitals and animal husbandry, and 2.) for the selection dynamics of tolerant bacteria in fluctuating environments because of the trade-off that arises from overcoming the lag phase as fast as possible and maintaining antibiotic tolerance.
Fungal biofilms on materials: describing and modelling growth of the black fungus Knufia petricola
(2023)
Fungi that grow as biofilms are associated with clinical settings as well as various cases of material fouling and material damage. Black fungi as biofilm formers have been rarely studied so far. Their conspicuous dark pigmentation, EPS production, adhesion capabilities and adaptations to stresses allow black fungi to develop biofilms on materials under harsh conditions. For example, rock-inhabiting black fungi withstand sun irradiation and dehydration and are therefore ubiquitous on arid surfaces like solar panels and marble monuments.
To understand and control their ability to colonise and deteriorate materials, one should assess and model black fungi’s growth patterns. But so far, no mathematical model has been developed to describe their growth. Knufia petricola A95, representing rock-inhabiting fungi from Chaetothyriales, is genetically amenable and can serve as a model for biofilm studies in black fungi. The primary objective of this project is to develop a growth model for K. petricola A95 which will enable to define and predict material colonisation of black fungi.
Dedicated experimental work with K. petricola will allow the quantitative assessment of the impact of environmental conditions (e.g. pH, nutrients, etc.) on the growth behaviour at the biofilm and single cells level. Data which will be used to validate and develop an individual-based model (based on the iDynoMICS modelling platform) that explains how fungal biofilms form, colonise materials, and cause deterioration.
Thus far, research has been conducted on the impact of different concentrations and sources of major elements (e.g. C, N, …), as well as trace elements (e.g. Cu, Mg, …), on the colony shape and biomass of Knufia petricola A95 biofilms. To study the behaviour of single cells, the length of the cell cycle in different growth media has been determined via the combined use of microfluidic devices and confocal microscopy.
The exponential rise in the number of fungal genomes sequenced by next-generation sequencing techniques makes it necessary to increase efforts to correctly annotate and assign gene functions. There are two possibilities to explore a genome and its gene functions. The hypothesis-based method proves the function of already existing gene/allele candidates by targeted mutagenesis - so called reverse genetics. The basis of forward genetics approaches is the random mutagenesis of the genome, followed by screening of obtained mutants for the phenotype of interest, and identification of the mutated genes in the respective mutants. This strategy is hypothesis-generating, means it is necessary to verify the relationship between the detected mutations and the observed phenotype by targeted mutagenesis of the identified gene. We developed a toolbox for editing the genome of the rock inhabitant Knufia petricola [Eurotiomycetes, Chaetothyriales] that allows the study of the phenotypic characteristics of black fungi such as the regulation of pigment synthesis, general stress responses, oligotrophy, and the unusual modes of cell division by advanced reverse and forward genetics approaches. The toolbox includes the annotated genome sequence of strain A95, efficient strategies for CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing and live-cell imaging using genetically encoded fluorescent proteins, as well as protocols for -omics approaches and for simulation of mineral weathering. A forward genetics approach using transposon mutagenesis is currently developed for identifying essential genes. The established protocols and knowledge gained from K. petricola form a starting point for making other fungi from extreme environments accessible to genetic manipulation.
Dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN) melanin is produced by diverse Ascomycetes via slightly differing biosynthetic routes. The polyketide synthases (PKS) release the heptaketide YWA1, the hexaketide AT4HN or the pentaketide T4HN. The first two products are deacetylated by ‘yellowish-green’ hydrolases to T4HN, and T4HN is further converted by a core set of enzymes to DHN. Final polymerization steps are accomplished by multicopper oxidases. DHN melanogenesis is often regulated in a spatial and temporal fashion resulting e.g., in melanized reproduction and survival structures of the foliar plant pathogen Botrytis cinerea (Schumacher 2016, Mol Microbiol). In contrast, a polyphyletic group of Ascomycetes (microcolonial fungi/ black yeasts) dwelling in hostile habitats such as bare rock surfaces in hot and cold deserts, exhibits constitutive melanogenesis. Here, DHN melanin builds a protective layer around all vegetative cells thus contributing to the survival of diverse environmental stresses even without specialized reproduction structures. For studying the relevance of constitutive DHN melanogenesis for tolerance of abiotic and biotic stresses, adhesion to substrates and subsequent damage of colonized surfaces, the rock-inhabiting fungus Knufia petricola was chosen as gene functions in this fungus can be studied by CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing. The putative melanogenic genes were identified in the genome of K. petricola, deleted to confirm their involvement in DHN melanogenesis and co-expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae for reconstruction of the synthesis pathway. Phenotypes of DHN-deficient mutants are studied. Here, we will discuss the role of the DHN melanin layer on the outer cell wall in tolerating UV irradiation.
Dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN) melanin is produced by diverse Ascomycetes via slightly differing biosynthetic routes. The polyketide synthases (PKS) release the heptaketide YWA1, the hexaketide AT4HN or the pentaketide T4HN. The first two products are deacetylated by ‘yellowish-green’ hydrolases to T4HN, and T4HN is further converted by a core set of enzymes to DHN. Final polymerization steps are accomplished by multicopper oxidases. DHN melanogenesis is often regulated in a spatial and temporal fashion resulting e.g., in melanized reproduction and survival structures of the foliar plant pathogen Botrytis cinerea (Schumacher 2016, Mol Microbiol). In contrast, microcolonial black fungi exhibit constitutive melanogenesis. Here, DHN melanin builds a protective layer around all vegetative cells thus contributing to the survival of diverse environmental stresses even without specialized reproduction structures. For studying the regulation and relevance of DHN melanogenesis for tolerance of abiotic and biotic stresses, adhesion to substrates and subsequent damage of colonized surfaces, the rock-inhabiting fungus Knufia petricola was chosen as gene functions in this fungus can be studied by CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing. The putative melanogenic genes were identified in the genome of K. petricola, deleted to confirm their involvement in DHN melanogenesis and co-expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae for reconstruction of the synthesis pathway. Phenotypes of deletion mutants are studied for specifying the functions of DHN melanin in K. petricola.
Sustainable product policy is one pillar of the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan. The European Commission is to begin to address recycling, recycled content and repair under the Ecodesign Directive and very likely in the announced European Sustainable Products Regulation. In addition, initiatives on recyclability and other aspects of sustainable products can be observed in France under the Ecomodulation Approach for some electrical and electronic products. Neither the Commission's ambitions nor the Ecomodulation Approach have so far led to a crucially better ecodesign of products.
Therefore, at the EU level, indices for reparability (already developed for smartphones and tablets), recyclability and recycled content of products are being discussed within the Ecodesign legislative framework in an attempt to achieve better ecodesign through advanced consumer purchasing decisions. The product standards requested by the European Commission to assess the recyclability (EN4555) and recycled content (EN4557) of energy-related products have already been published, but are purely based on a mass-based approach. Material-specific aspects such as the environmental impact or the financial, technical and redesign efforts required by manufacturers to facilitate the recycling and use of recycled materials are not addressed. Materials that are easy to recycle and use and have a high recycled content, such as copper, are treated in the same way as plastics that are difficult to recycle and use in products as post-consumer recycled plastics. Including such aspects would be essential to trigger environmentally relevant and significant improvements in product design.
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 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.
The phylogeny of the Blattodea boasts a wide degree of sociality spanning from solitary cockroaches to advanced ecosystem-dominating higher termite societies. The emergence of sociality in the termites was associated with the acquisition of a diverse range of social structures and differential expression of specific gene network. Previous work has found evidence for a caste-specific social defence system in termites leading to an immune system that may favour group over individual defence. While preliminary work suggests a correlation between social transitions and a reduction of immune gene family diversity, the lack of available high-quality termite genomes hampers complete knowledge of the true diversity of immune gene evolution across termite phylogeny. Here, we report on the sequencing and assembly of 50 high-quality long-read-based genomes and 180 caste- and sex-specific brain transcriptomes across major termite and cockroach sister-branch lineage. We investigate the diversity and evolutionary history of immune genes across genomes, and the potential gene networks that have evolved with the emergence of termite sociality and some aspect of immune related behaviours.
Adipokinetic hormone (AKH) is a neuropeptide produced in the insect corpora cardiaca that plays an essential role in mobilizing carbohydrates and lipids from the fat body to the hemolymph. AKH acts by binding to a rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), the adipokinetic hormone receptor (AKHR). In this study, we tackle AKH ligand and receptor gene evolution as well as the evolutionary origins of AKH gene paralogues from the order Blattodea (termites and cockroaches). Phylogenetic analyses of AKH precursor sequences point to an ancient AKH gene duplication event in the common ancestor of Blaberoidea, yielding a new group of putative decapeptides. In total, 16 different AKH peptides from 90 species were obtained. Two octapeptides and seven putatively novel decapeptides are predicted for the first time. AKH receptor (AKHRs) sequences from 18 species, spanning solitary cockroaches and subsocial woodroaches as well as lower and higher termites, were subsequently acquired using classical molecular methods and in silico approaches employing transcriptomic data. Aligned AKHR open reading frames revealed 7 highly conserved transmembrane regions, a typical arrangement for GPCRs. Phylogenetic analyses based on AKHR sequences support accepted relationships among termite and cockroach lineages to a large extent, while putative post-translational modification sites do not greatly differ between solitary and subsocial roaches and social termites. This study provides important information not only for AKH and AKHR functional research but also for further analyses interested in their development as potential candidates for biorational pest control agents against invasive termites and cockroaches.
Insecta is one of the most diverse phyla in the animal kingdom, with species living in all types of habitats encountering an even greater diversity of pathogens and parasites. Defence strategies against such harmful threats led to a variety of molecular mechanisms, ecological shifts, and genetic innovations. Gene families underlying the molecular basis of the immune responses have evolved within the boundaries given by the species ecology. Here, we explore the evolution of some emblematic immune gene families throughout the Insecta phylum shedding light on remarkable genetic events such as gene duplication or gene loss. We followed a workflow based on the Hidden Markov model to search for immune genes in 55 high-quality genomes of insects. We highlight the emergence of group defence in social species as an ecological shift that released selection pressure on immune gene families notably in Blattodea. Further, we draw attention to certain gene families and the link between their diversity and the specificities of the species’ microbiota. Overall, we report data on immune gene diversity in insects.
Harnessing near-chromosome level quality genomes to explore the evolution of termite immunity
(2023)
The phylogeny of the Blattodea boasts a wide degree of sociality spanning from solitary cockroaches to advanced ecosystem-dominating higher termite societies. The emergence of sociality in termites was associated with the acquisition of a diverse range of social structures. Previous work has found evidence for a caste-specific social defence system in termites leading to an immune system that may favour group over individual defence. While preliminary work suggests a correlation between social transitions and a reduction of immune gene family diversity, the lack of available high-quality termite genomes hampers complete knowledge of the true diversity of immune gene evolution across termite phylogeny. Here, we report on the sequencing and near-chromosome level assembly of 48 high-quality long-read-based genomes across major termite and cockroach sister-branch lineages. We investigate the diversity and evolutionary history of immune genes across genomes, focusing particular attention on correlations between immune gene evolution and transitions in sociality over termite phylogeny.
The accelerating climate crisis results in a rising demand for ecologically driven concepts. Regarding construction, this does not only include environmentally friendly materials but also the establishment of greenery in urban regions.
This contribution presents the progress of two projects in which textured concrete slabs were designed to grow a stable biofilm of photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms. The greened panels represent an alternative to classic fa9ade greening with plants. Current literature suggests that the development of bioreceptive surface materials in the construction sector is difficult because there are no standardized methodological approaches for measuring said bioreceptivity. Therefore, the long-term. ahn is proposing a suitable measurement concept combining material Science and biology. Among other things, the intrinsic Substrate property pH value is expected to have a significant influence on biological colonization. In the current contribution the focus lies on the theoretical approach and design of experiment regarding this parameter.
Available experimental data will be presented.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large, ever-growing and widely used class of chemicals. Due to the strength of the C-F bond, they do not decompose but accumulate in the environment posing a risk for nature and humans alike. While the use of some PFAS, like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is already regulated in the EU, new ‘precursor’ substances are used to replace them. However, these precursors may be equally harmful to the environment.
In recent years, many ‘hot spot’ sites with high PFAS contaminations in soil have been distinguished, but no German-wide background values have been determined yet. Knowing these background values is crucial to understand the degree of PFAS contamination, underpinning future regulatory decisions.
Due to the complexity and variety of different PFAS compounds, one needs to apply a broad spectrum of different techniques to capture most of the PFAS content in one sample.
In the framework of this project, 600 soil samples are taken at different sites all over Germany. The concentration of 30 PFAS - 13 carboxylic acids (C4-C18), 5 sulfonic acids (C4-C10) and 12 precursor substances) - is determined in these soil samples using three different sample preparation approaches: 1) ultrasonic extraction of the soil samples with Methanol; 2) preparation of eluates to test the leaching behaviour of the PFAS and 3) TOP assays following the method published by Houtz & Sedlak.
Targeted LC-MS/MS is used to determine PFAS concentration after all three preparation steps.
For the TOP-assay, the concentration of all 30 PFAS is compared prior to and after the oxidation reaction.
Besides the ‘classic’ TOP-Assay, two other TOP-Assay approaches, the dTOP Assay and the photoTOP-Assay, are tested and the results of all three approaches are compared. First, all three TOP-Assay approaches will be tested on a reference soil spiked with a solution including all 30 PFAS measured in the project. Later, soil samples taken in the frame of the priorly described project will be tested.
This poster will focus on the results of the experiments comparing the three different TOP Assay approaches in spiked reference soil. Additionally, some of the results of the other sample preparation methods, extraction and eluate preparation will be presented.
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.