NanoMobil

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Background

Nowadays industry uses a variety of nanoparticles with different characteristics. Due to their anti-bactericidal properties silver nanoparticles are widely used in various products including textiles and personal care products. The probability that these nanoparticles find their way into the environment increases with the number of products in which they are used. However, the risks associated with their mobility in the environment are still not well understood and further research is needed. In the previous project “Nanoflow” as well as other research projects the behavior of nanoparticles has been studied in simple test systems. Yet, the results obtained in those studies are only partially applicable when it comes to better understanding the fate and behavior of silver nanoparticles in the environment.

Aims

The objective of the joint project “Nanomobil” is to study the interactions between synthetic silver nanoparticles and the biosphere, pedosphere, and hydrosphere under realistic conditions and the risks those nanoparticles pose to the environment. One important aspect in this context is to improve our understanding of the exposure pathway soil à groundwater. The specific focus of the LIH is the different transport mechanisms of the silver nanoparticles in groundwater under realist hydrogeochemical conditions. The project also aims to improve our understanding regarding the long-term behavior of these nanoparticles in the environment as they undergo dissolution, accumulation and transformation processes through the interaction with the hydrosphere and biosphere.

Within the project, bachelor and master theses can be assigned to different topics.

Further Information