Back to search

IS-MOBIL-Mobilitetsprogr.f.utl.Ph.D-stu

Remediation efficiency and ecotoxicological effects of zero-valent nanoparticles in polluted soils

Awarded: NOK 0.21 mill.

Project Number:

195689

Project Period:

2009 - 2010

Subject Fields:

Nanotechnology has a high potential for abating environmental problems through development of new materials for energy generation and storage, water purification and range of other environmentally benign applications. A new technology based on nanomateria ls that is emerging is the use of nanosized zero-valent iron (nZVI) that has been show to be highly efficient in e.g. dehalogenation of persistent chlorinated organic pollutants. Another promising application is remediation of Arsenic contaminated soil an d water using nZVI. In spite of these promising results, evidence of the efficiency of nZVI for remediation of a wider range of pollutants is lacking, as is information on possible secondary effects of large scale application of nZVI to soil. The present project will compare different nZVI formulations and application methods for remediation of three different persistent organic pollutants, and at the same time investigate whether direct nZVI application to polluted soils may have unexpected adverse effec ts on pollutant migration, toxic effects on selected non-target organisms, including plants and microorganisms that otherwise would mediate degradation of the targeted pollutants. By investigating both remediation efficiency and adverse side effects, this study may contribute more knowledge in the selection of nZVI formulations and application practices ensure an improved public acceptance of nanotechnology as a new remediation tool.

Funding scheme:

IS-MOBIL-Mobilitetsprogr.f.utl.Ph.D-stu