Immobilized nanoparticles for oxidative and reductive water treatment

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Christian Zwiener
• Subject Area: Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Limnology, Urban Water Management, Water Chemistry, Integrated Water Resources Management
• Term: from 2013 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 245398957

The efficiency and applicability of nanoparticulate zero valent iron (NZVI) for contaminant degradation have not been fully exploited since it is affected by particle agglomeration and emission of the particles to the environment. One approach is the immobilization of NZVI on carbon-based membranes which increases the degradation efficiency of the materials and reduces problems involved with nanoparticle separation after application. A major aim of this project is therefore (1) to produce NZVI supported on carbon-based materials, and (2) to perform fundamental studies of oxidative and/or reductive contaminant degradation in aqueous solutions under conditions relevant for drinking water and environmental water samples, and assess them by consideration of the degradation of the original compounds and the occurrence of transformation products. Parameters for the optimization of the efficiency are the support materials, methods of the production and immobilization of nanoparticles, and the possibility to apply further electrochemical processes. A further important aspect of using robust support materials is the possibility of regeneration or reuse of the materials to achieve the maximum benefit for future applications of the materials for contaminant degradation.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants