Detection methods

Discussion Paper Mikroplastics Analytics Nov 2018.pdf

Analytics

Sampling

Soil

Raman microspectroscopy

Publikationstyp

Diskussionspapier Mikroplastik-Analytik

hannes.schritt@ecologic.eu — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 13:03:04 +0000

Discussion Paper: Microplastics Analytics hannes.schritt… Thu, 10/18/2018 - 15:03

Untertitel

Sampling, Preparation and Detection Methods

Titelbild

Beschreibung

The discussion paper was developed based on the state of the art and the discussions in the research focus "Plastics in the Environment – Sources • Sinks • Solutions" with the aim of collectiong the physicochemical investigation methods used in the research focus, in particular for the analysis of microplastics. In order to achieve this goal, methods and analytical apporaches were discussed across the joint research projects in order to achieve validated methods and comparable results in the various projects for each specific question. The discussion paper, which is now available for download, reflects the current state the debate within the research focus and is intended to contribute to a pool of methods that is as standardised as possible for the relevant application fields in science, industry and administration.

This first version was published in October 2018. The discussion paper will be updated annually in the course of the research focus.

Attachments

Year

2018

Type of Result

discussion papers & status papers

Tags

Analytics

Methods development

Download article (restricted access)

Publikationstyp

Instrumental Analysis of Microplastics - Benefits and Challenges

Stephan.Guertler — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 08:08:15 +0000

Instrumental Analysis of Microplastics - Benefits and Challenges Stephan.Guertler Mon, 07/09/2018 - 10:08

Titelbild

Beschreibung

There is a high demand for easy, cheap, comparable, and robust methods for microplastic (MP) analysis, due to the ever-increasing public and scientific interest in (micro-) plastic pollution in the environment. Today, a multitude of methodologies for sampling, sample preparation, and analysis of MPs are in use.

This feature article deals with the most prominent detection methods as well as with sampling strategies and sample preparation techniques. Special emphasis is on their benefits and challenges. Thus, spectroscopic methods, coupled with microscopy, require time-consuming sample preparation and extended measurement times, whereas thermo-analytical methods are faster but lack the ability to determine the size distribution in samples.

To that effect, most of the described methods are applicable depending on the defined analytical question.

Further Links

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-018-1210-8

ISSN

1618-2642

Magazine

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

Year

2018

Author

Sven Huppertsberg

Thomas Knepper

Publisher

Springer

Type of Result

(scientific) publications (peer-review, essays, book chapters, poster etc.)

Citation

Huppertsberg, Sven & Knepper, Thomas. Instrumental analysis of microplastics—benefits and challenges. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-018-1210-8

Tags

Publikationstyp

PLAWES

KALEH — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 09:29:04 +0000

PLAWES KALEH Wed, 12/20/2017 - 10:29

Microplastic Contamination in the Weser- Wadden Sea – National Park Model System: an Ecosystem-Wide Approach

In PLAWES, the modelling system of the German national park Weser-Wadden Sea was the first large European river basin that was investigated in detail regarding its microplastic pollution. PLAWES conducted a pioneering study of the microplastic contamination from the headwaters to the North Sea (northern Atlantic Ocean) that comprised an interdisciplinary and integrated ecosystem approach and accounted for various point sources (wastewater treatment plants, separation systems) and diffuse sources (drainage, atmosphere) of pollution. The results were integrated into a model for identifying primary transport mechanisms and accumulation zones. The research investigated the effects of microplastics on ecosystems in the Weser-Wadden Sea system by analysing the interaction of microplastic with pathogens in biofilm and aquatic invertebrates. Outcomes of this particularly ecologically relevant aspects were used to estimate the environmental risk of microplastics for the model system, and subsequently made it transferable to other systems. In addition, the results of the analysis became part of new teaching materials in order to provide a knowledge platform for teachers, students, and parents across Europe. PLAWES generated unique data about the effects of microplastics on a large European river basin and its environment. This is significant not only for policymakers and stakeholders but also as a fundament for science-based solutions to address the microplastics problem.

Main areas of work

Microplastics in the Weser-Wadden Sea
Model-based balancing of diffuse and point sources of microplastic entries
Interaction of microplastics with pathogens and biota
Training measures to raise awareness of plastic waste

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 0 Management, communication and dissemination

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Christian Laforsch, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, e-mail: christian.laforsch@uni-bayreuth.de

Project partner
AWI

Short description
WP 0 ensured the targeted and efficient support of the consortium with regard to project management, communication and dissemination. WP 0 coordinated both the public relations work and the exploitation of the results achieved. WP 0 continued to coordinate the cooperation of all project partners and was therefore in close contact with all project partners. WP 0 coordinated the harmonisation with the joint research project MicroCatch_Balt with regard to sampling and processing, modelling, public relations, and data storage as well as communication with the other projects.

WP 1 Microplastics in the Weser-Wadden Sea model system

Contact person
Dr. Gunnar Gerdts, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade, 27498 Helgoland, e-mail: gunnar.gerdts@awi.de

Project partner
UBT, UOld

Short description
The aim of WP 1 was to investigate the entire Weser river system into coastal waters with regard to microplastic pollution. The final determination of the exact sampling points was carried out taking into account the real data required for RAUMISmGROWA- MePhos and "Tidal Model" (WP 3). The entire Weser including the Lower Weser and the Wadden Sea was investigated with regard to exposure to microplastic. Two campaigns were carried out at different seasons with different water conditions on the Weser.

WP 2 Entry points – point sources and diffuse entry

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Andreas Held, University of Bayreuth, BayCEER; second affiliation: Technical University of Berlin, Department of Environmental Chemistry and Air Pollution Control, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, e-mail: held@tu-berlin.de

Project partner
AWI

Short description
The aim of WP 2 was an exemplary consideration of the input paths for microplastics by investigation of important point sources such as wastewater treatment plants and separation water sewer systems as well as the diffuse input from drains and atmosphere. For this purpose, selected sampling points in the Weser river basin were characterised taking into account different landscape areas and land use types. The focus lay on quantifying the entry points of microplastics. Sampling was synchronised with the campaigns at the Weser.

WP 3 Model-based accounting of diffuse and point-shaped MP entries

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Frank Wendland, Jülich Research Centre IBG-3, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52428 Jülich, e-mail: f.wendland@fz-juelich.de

Project partner
TI, NLWKN

Short description
The aim was a spatially resolved quantification of the microplastic emissions from diffuse and point sources and the identification of spatial load centres and accumulation zones within the river basin and estuary. The microplastic entries were modelled from different types of diffuse entry points and point sources. The work was based on the models mGROWA, MEPhos, RAUMIS, as well as a transport modelling considering the estuarine hydro- and sediment dynamics. Within the framework of the project, the model chain was improved in a targeted manner according to microplastic entry modelling in the inland and the further distribution of the microplastics in the lower reaches, estuary and apron.

WP 4 Interaction of microplastic with pathogens and biota

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Jörg Oehlmann, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, e-mail: oehlmann@bio.uni-frankfurt.de

Project partner
AWI, UBT, UOld

Short description
In WP 4, the ecosystem effects of microplastic on the Weser-Wadden Sea model system were described on the basis of the two ecologically relevant aspects "Interaction with pathogens and antimicrobial resistance" and "Interaction with aquatic invertebrates".

Interaction with pathogens and antimicrobial resistance: Since biofilms are sites of increased genetic exchange and increased antimicrobial resistance occurs below wastewater treatment plants, plastics could not only contribute to the dispersion of pathogenic organisms, but also of resistance genes. The consequences of such a transfer were previously unknown. AWI therefore used molecular microbial source tracking techniques (DNA/RNA arrays for the detection of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, protozoa and virulence/resistance genes) to investigate plastic samples from the Weser region. Interaction with aquatic invertebrates: In order to generate exposure data, different mollusk species were applied in situ in the Weser, the tidal area and the Wadden Sea. Absorbed microplastic was examined in the digestive tract and in tissue samples and confirmed in parallel by pyrolysis-GC-MS and spectroscopic methods. Historical mussel samples (since 1986) from the Federal Environmental Specimen Bank (UBA) were examined using pyrolysis-GC-MS. The chronic toxicity of microplastic is characterised in laboratory experiments with mussels and worms. Different polymers were conditioned in situ and toxicologically characterised in chronic exposure experiments.

WP 5 Training measures to raise awareness of plastic waste

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Franz X. Bogner, University of Bayreuth, Didactics of Biology, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, e-mail: franz.bogner@uni-bayreuth.de

Project partner
AWI, UOld

Short description
In addition to the ethical assessment skills of students, WP 5 incorporated existing individual environmental knowledge. Innovative teaching materials with a sound reference to everyday life were evaluated for a holistic understanding regarding the burden of plastics in the model system and disseminated via an Internet teaching/learning portal. Within the work package, UBT provided a handbook for teachers and "public relations workers".

Coordinator

Prof. Dr. Christian Laforsch
University of Bayreuth
Chair of Animal Ecology I / UBT
Universitätsstraße 30
95447 Bayreuth
Phone: +49 921 / 55-2651
e-mail: christian.laforsch@uni-bayreuth.de

Dr. Gunnar Gerdts
Alfred Wegener Institute
Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI)
Kurpromenade
27498 Helgoland
Phone: +49 4725 / 819-3245
e-mail: gunnar.gerdts@awi.de

Website

http://www.bayceer.uni-bayreuth.de/PLAWES/en/

Partner Institutions

Coast Research Centre at the Lower Saxony State Enterprise for Water Management, Coastal Protection and Nature Conservation / NLWKN

Jülich Research Centre / FZJ

Goethe University Frankfurt / GU

Johann Heinrich von Thünen Institute - Federal Research Institute for Rural Areas, Forestry and Fisheries / TI-LR

Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Institute of Chemistry and Biology of the Sea / UOld

Duration Period

September 2017

April 2021

Tags

Information and teaching materials

Infrared

Infraref spectroscopy

Sewage treatment plant

Sewage sludge

Municipality

Communication strategy

Combined sewar overflows

Prevention of plastics

Polyamide (PA)

Polyester

Polyethylene (PE)

High density polyethylene PE-HD

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

sampling

Sample purification

Pyrolysis GC

Raman microspectroscopy

Environmental sustainability

Scanning electron microscopy

Plasticiser

Project sheet

18_Projektblatt_PLAWES_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

http://www.emistop.de/page8.html

EmiStop

KALEH — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 16:41:32 +0000

EmiStop KALEH Tue, 12/19/2017 - 17:41

Identification of Industrial Plastic Emissions by Means of Innovative Detection Methods and Technology Development to Prevent the Input into the Environment via the Wastewater Pathway

This project systematically detected emissions of plastics into wastewater from relevant industries. Emissions levels were analysed along all points of the value chain (production, transport, processing, and cleaning of synthetic materials).

The goal was to select wastewater treatment technologies that optimise the reduction of emissions of plastics for the respective value chain. The project evaluated existing technologies for separating particles, investigated deposition rates, and developed approaches for technical optimisation. Optimisation also includes technological developments such as flocculants. Researchers conducted tests in both laboratory and pilot project settings – selected large scale technical wastewater treatment plants were investigated at industrial facilities.

Due to the existing analytical uncertainties, the following detection methods were used to evaluate the existing and developed technologies:

Dynamic differential calometry for qualification and quantification (concentrations)
Raman spectroscopy for qualification and quantification (particle numbers)
Correlations of the plastic concentrations to routine water chemical analyses (for a retrospective estimation of the plastic loads)
Tracer test with magnetic plastic particles (simple and reliable quantification in large dilutions) for balancing in laboratory and pilot tests

Apart from the technical aspects, the focus of this project was also on socio-economic aspects. Thus, measures to prevent economic losses and retain value were reviewed together with the associated industrial enterprises and evaluated with partners from the scientific community and other interest groups.

Main areas of work

Standardisation of sampling and sample preparation for industrial wastewater (in alignment with Plastik-Net and other joint research projects)
Quantitative and qualitative measurement of plastic concentrations in industrial wastewater using Raman spectroscopy and dynamic differential calorimetry
Extended data collection at the sampled industrial waste water treatment plants for the derivation of the plastic loads and testing of a correlation between the measurement results and routine water chemical analyses
Development of magnetic plastic particles in the micrometre range with the physical properties of relevant types of plastic
Development of a tracer test with magnetic plastic particles
Assessment of technologies for particle separation with regard to the retention of (micro-) plastic particles
Optimisation of particle separation technologies
Development of flocculants for the targeted improvement of the retention of individual types of plastics and their mixtures
Delphi surveys of industry and sector associations as well as of politics and science to identify perceived risks and obstacles as well as opportunities and the willingness to participate
Multi-criteria analysis for the development of weighted, ecological and socio-economic criteria for the sustainability assessment of the project results

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 1 Development of analytical methods for plastic particles

Contact persons
Prof. Dr. Jutta Kerpen, RheinMain University, Institute for Environmental and Process Engineering, Department of Wastewater Treatment, Am Brückweg 26, 65428 Rüsselsheim, e-mail: jutta.kerpen@hs-rm.de

Prof. Dr. Susanne Lackner, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: s.lackner@iwar.tu-darmstadt.de

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Markus Engelhart, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Technology, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: m.engelhart@iwar.tudarmstadt.de

Project partner
EnviroChemie

Short description
A routinely applicable sampling and sample preparation procedure were developed in order to create a uniform and comparable database for industrial wastewater. For the subsequent qualification and quantification of microplastics in (industrial) wastewater samples, the methods of dynamic differential calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy were adapted to industrial wastewater. The respective analysis results were compared with standardised routine measurements and operational self-analysis to determine correlations.

WP 2 Tracer test

Contact persons
Prof. Dr. Susanne Lackner, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: s.lackner@iwar.tu-darmstadt.de

Dr. Kyriakos Eslahian, BS-Partikel GmbH, Nestléstr. 41, 55120 Mainz, e-mail: eslahian@bs-partikel.de

Short description
In order to balance individual process technologies for plastic particle retention in real water matrices, a method for the quantification of magnetic plastic particles by means of magnetic susceptibility scales was established. For this purpose, particles in the size range from 1 μm to 300 μm were synthesised with the greatest possible magnetic susceptibility, which imitate the morphologies and chemical properties of environmental plastic particles.

Furthermore, a continuous method for the production of these particles was established in order to ensure the best possible reproducibility and scalability for subsequent applications.

WP 3 Identification of industrial entry points

Prof. Dr. Susanne Lackner, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: s.lackner@iwar.tu-darmstadt.de

Project partner
EnviroChemie, inter 3

Short description
The entry points of microplastics from industrial wastewater into surface waters were determined by uniform characterisation and quantification of the plastic emissions of individual industrial plants. The evaluation of plastic emissions on the basis of mass flows, variations and production information with key figure system and balance tools, hotspots and temporal variations of the particle input were identified.

WP 4 Balancing of technical systems

Contact persons

Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Project partner

TU-AW, inter3, HSRM

Short description
In laboratory and pilot tests, various process techniques (filtration in various filter units such as membrane plants, double-layer filters, cloth filters; flocculation in combination with filtration, flotation or sedimentation) were evaluated with regard to plastic particle removal. For this purpose, the tracer particles developed in WP 2 were used, which enable the use of synthetic and real industrial waste water. Furthermore, the existing industrial process technology was evaluated at different industrial sites and optimised with regard to the separation of plastic particles.

WP 5 Optimisation of plastic retention

Contact persons
Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Project partner
TU-AW

Short description
Based on the results of WP 4, the pilot plants were adapted by specific design changes (e.g. flow control, sludge removal, conveyor technology) and the success of these optimisations was evaluated in further balancing experiments. For the industries considered, in addition to constructive optimisation of process engineering, production-integrated measures to reduce plastic emissions were derived. The production information collected in WP 3 served as the basis for this.

WP 6 Development of flocculants for plastics sorts

Contact persons
Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Project partner
TU-AT, TU-AW

Short description
In experiments with beakers, individual polymers for the targeted flocculation of particles of different types of plastic in the size range from 10 to 300 μm were tested. The results were then used to test specific blends of polymers to produce the most stable flakes of particles of individual plastic types. With these results, the tests and developments were extended to mixtures of different types of plastics.

The laboratory test results were then supplemented by pilot tests using tracer particles developed in WP 2.

WP 7 Risk and potential analysis

Contact person
Dipl.-Ing. Wolf Raber, inter 3 GmbH - Institute for Resource Management, Otto-Suhr-Allee 59, 10585 Berlin, e-mail: raber@inter3.de

Project partner
TU-AT, TU-AW, EnviroChemie, HSRM, BS-Partikel

Short description
To maximise the broad application of the EmiStop optimisation approaches and avoidance strategies, the risks and potentials were identified from the perspective of the key actors, evaluated and fed into the project at an early degree of technology maturity. Furthermore, an expert-supported set of sociopolitical, economic, and ecological evaluation criteria and a meaningful set of indicators were derived in order to analyse and evaluate the multicriterial optimisation approaches and avoidance strategies and in a next step measures for implementation and diffusion.

WP 8 Management and communication

Contact persons
Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com Dr. Anja Steglich, inter 3 GmbH - Institute for Resource Management, 10585 Berlin, e-mail: steglich@inter3.de

Project partner
TU-AT, TU-AW, HSRM, BS-Partikel

Short description
In order to disseminate and implement the project results, industrial companies were actively involved and dialogue is carried out with experts from relevant industry associations (e.g. PlasticsEurope e.V., IK Industrievereinigung Plastikverpackungen e.V., GKV Gesamtverband Plastikverarbeitende Industrie e.V.). The collaboration was commissioned to a) develop the results into a consensual overall perspective, b) prepare these into action-oriented and implementable guidelines and c) make them available via established channels and multipliers, e.g. the Responsible Care Initiative of the chemical industry.

Coordinator

Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter
EnviroChemie GmbH
In den Leppsteinswiesen 9
64380 Rossdorf
Phone: +49 6154-6998-57
e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Website

Partner Institutions

Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering

Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Technology

RheinMain University, Institute for Environmental and Process Engineering / HSRM

inter 3 GmbH-Institute for Resource Management

BS-Partikel GmbH

Duration Period

January 2018

December 2020

Tags

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Sewage treatment plant

Environmental accounting

Polymer analysis

Polypropylene (PP)

Polystyrene (PS)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Project sheet

15_Projektblatt_EmiStop_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

http://www.KuWert.hs-bremen.de

KuWert

KALEH — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 16:12:48 +0000

KuWert KALEH Tue, 12/19/2017 - 17:12

Ship-Based Treatment of Plastics for the Implementation of Value Chains in Less Developed Countries as well as for the Prevention of Plastic Inputs into the Environment and Especially in Marine Ecosystems

The aim of the project was to develop concepts and preliminary planning for the implementation of an infrastructure for the collection, ship-based treatment, and marketing of plastic waste in order to reduce the input of plastic waste into the environment and marine ecosystems. The project's target regions were primarily less developed countries in the Global South. Using West Africa as an example, strategies for reducing the input of plastics (in this case macroplastics) into the environment were researched, because the input of macroplastics into the environment is particularly high when functioning waste collection and disposal systems are lacking. Stakeholder dialogues were conducted to assess whether a commodity chain based on plastic recyclates is possible on the West African coast. A prototype model ship was developed and used to determine costs.

Main areas of work

Data collection, analysis and evaluation (local conditions in less developed countries)
Preliminary planning of waste treatment plants
Design of a concept for suitable ship and plant technology
Development of strategies for the implementation of value chains in less developed countries
Analysis and evaluation of results (economic, ecological)

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 1 Basic evaluation – recording of plastic waste

Contact person
Dr. Martin Wittmaier, IEKrW, Neustadtswall 30, 28199 Bremen, e-mail: wittmaier-office@hs-bremen.de

Project partner
TECHNOLOG, Nehlsen, University of Mauritius, University of Sierra Leone

Short description
It was of utmost importance for the processing of the entire project to gain knowledge of the composition of the plastic waste that potentially was collected in less developed countries. To this end, data and information (types, qualities, quantities, framework conditions, logistics, etc.) were first collected, analysed and evaluated, including on site in the example countries Sierra Leone and Mauritius.

WP 2 Pre-design of a treatment and recovery plant

Contact person
Dr. Sven Rausch, Nehlsen GmbH & Co. KG, Wilhelm-Karmann-Str. 5, 28237 Bremen, e-mail: sven.rausch@nehlsen.com

Project partner
TECHNOLOG, IEKrW, University of Mauritius, University of Sierra Leone

Short description
In this WP, waste treatment plants were planned in various variants. For this purpose, national and international framework conditions connected with the construction and operation of the ship-based facilities to be developed were determined. Various known procedures were evaluated and tested for their suitability, as were requirements for operation, maintenance and repair. On this basis, the objectives for the treatment of plastic waste were defined, followed by the development of conceptual designs.

WP 3 Concept development (ship and plant engineering)

Contact person
Fridtjof Rohde, TECHNOLOG, Vorsetzen 50, 20459 Hamburg, e-mail: fridtjof.rohde@tlg-services.biz

Project partner
IEKrW, Nehlsen

Short description
Preliminary designs for up to three variants of carrier vessels/semi-submersibles for the treatment of plastic waste were developed with alternative shipbound logistics concepts. Rough planning included room planning and process-oriented arrangement of facilities, equipment for maritime technology, equipment for waste treatment plants, etc. The production costs and energy requirements were also determined and the variants were compared economically.

WP 4 Marketing potential of secondary raw materials

Contact person
Dr. Sven Rausch, Nehlsen GmbH & Co. KG, Wilhelm-Karmann-Straße 5, 28237 Bremen, e-mail: sven.rausch@nehlsen.com

Project partner
IEKrW, TECHNOLOG

Short description
The market for secondary raw materials was examined, since these are fundamentally valuable. Tradeable products from plastic waste were identified and the quality requirements to be met specified. Possible revenues were also estimated. The resulting technical requirements for processing technology and quality management were taken into account in the other WPs. Based on the results, strategies for the most economical processing and marketing of products made from plastic waste were developed.

WP 5 Profitability analysis and life cycle assessment

Contact person
Dr. Martin Wittmaier, IEKrW, Neustadtswall 30, 28199 Bremen, e-mail: wittmaier-office@hs-bremen.de

Project partner
TECHNOLOG, Nehlsen

Short description
The concepts and preliminary planning for the ship-based collection, processing and marketing of plastic waste from less developed countries developed in the project were evaluated under economic and ecological aspects. On the basis of the results, the ecological advantages (reduction of the input of plastics into the environment, protection of resources by recycling plastic waste) were determined. The evaluation of the economic efficiency was intended to assess the chances of realisation and provide a planning framework for potential investors, funding providers and operators of a ship-based collection and treatment plant for plastic waste.

WP 6 Project management, public relations, recycling concept

Contact person
Fridtjof Rohde, TECHNOLOG, Vorsetzen 50, 20459 Hamburg, e-mail: fridtjof.rohde@tlg-services.biz

Project partner
IEKrW, Nehlsen

Short description
Within the framework of WP 6, work was carried out on internal and external communication (project meetings, workshops, communication between national and international partners including maintaining contacts with interested shipping companies/shipowners, public relations, etc.) and project management (administrative and content-related reporting, work and progress control and coordination, etc.).

Coordinator

Fridtjof Rohde
TECHNOLOG Services GmbH
Vorsetzen 50
20459 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 7070768-20
e-mail: fridtjof.rohde@tlg-services.biz

Website

Partner Institutions

Hochschule Bremen – City University of Applied Sciences, Institute for Energy, Recycling and Environmental Protection / IEKrW

Nehlsen GmbH & Co. KG

Duration Period

August 2017

December 2019

Tags

Waste reduction

Waste management

High density polyethylene PE-HD

Environmental accounting

Optimization process

Plastic littering

Reduction of plastic use

Polyamide (PA)

Polyester

Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Resource conservation

Risk assessment

Secondary raw materials

Sorting

Stakeholder

Material flow managment

Project sheet

13_Projektblatt_KUWERT_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

https://www.wasser.tum.de/en/ submuetrack/startseite/

SubμTrack

KALEH — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 15:21:00 +0000

SubμTrack KALEH Tue, 12/19/2017 - 16:21

Tracking of (Sub)Microplastics of Different Identities - Innovative Analysis Tools for Toxicological and Process-engineering Evaluation

The methods currently available for the analysis of microplastics in environmental matrices were primarily designed for particles in the size range of 1 μm to 5 mm. Smaller particles below 1 μm were hardly detected. However in contrast to larger particles, these are able to enter cells and have a higher potential for adsorption of pollutants due to their relatively larger surface. SubμTrack focuses on plastic particles between 50 nm and 100 μm, because of their higher ecotoxicological relevance. For this purpose, the previously available detection range was extended and new methods for sampling, sample preparation, and analysis were developed. Another focus of the project were the possible effects of submicroplastic particles on the aquatic environment and on human health. The results of these studies were complemented by an assessment of the social, political and legal dimensions of plastic emission into the environment. By analysing the perception of the problem and possible strategies for action, foundations were laid for active processes of social change. The results were also examined regarding to their implementation in legislation, standardisation, and their relevance for voluntary actions.

Main areas of work

Characterisation of particles and comparison with reference materials
Impact on the aquatic environment and human health
Social, political and legal dimensions of plastic emission into the environment

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 0 Organisation, coordination and public relations

Contact persons
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg E. Drewes, Technical University of Munich, Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, e-mail: j.drewes@tum.de

Project partner
TUM-IWC, TUM-LTI, TUM-LAS, TUM-MCTS, IGOE, LfU, UBA, IUTA, Postnova Analytics GmbH, BS-Partikel GmbH

Short description
In addition to the coordination of results and products within the consortium, WP 0 also included the coordination of activities with partners outside the project. The goal was the sustainable implementation of the analytical techniques, the results and the instructions for action of harmonised strategies in close cooperation with national and international key institutions. The public relations work was mainly coordinated by TUM-SWW and effectively implemented by partners of different orientations.

WP 1 Selection and production of reference particles

Contact persons
Dr. Carmen Nickel, Dr. Jochen Türk, Institute of Energy and Environmental Technology e. V. (IUTA), Bliersheimer Str. 58- 60, 47229 Duisburg, e-mail: nickel@iuta.de; tuerk@iuta.de

Project partner
LfU, BS-Partikel GmbH

Short description
Together with the partners of BS-Partikel and the leaders of the experimental WPs 2 – 5 the required reference particles were identified. In particular, the size, material, marking and the availability of the particles played an important role. The reference particles were selected during the initial phase of the project in order to have enough time to fabricate or purchase the particles at the beginning of the experiments. The project partners BS-Partikel and IUTA then provided the corresponding particles.

WP 2 Comprehensive analysis of microplastic particles

Contact persons
Prof. Dr. Martin Elsner, Dr. Natalia P. Ivleva, Technical University of Munich, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Institute of Hydrochemistry, Marchionistrasse 17, 81377 Munich, e-mail: natalia.ivleva@ch.tum.de

Project partner
Postnova Analytics GmbH, BS-Partikel GmbH, TUMSWW, TUM-LTI, LfU, IUTA

Short description
Innovative and proven analytical detection methods (including sampling, preparation, identification and quantification) for microplastics (1 μm – 5 mm) were determined and tested with reference materials in the submicron range. The most successful techniques of the MiWa project running since 2016 serve as a starting point for this; standard methods from this project were integrated and compared. Direct contact to actors of the MiWa project was guaranteed by partners of the consortium (TUM-IWC and UBA).

WP 3 Studies on aging, adsorption and desorption of organic trace substances on reference particles

Contact persons
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg E. Drewes, Technische Universität München, Lehrstuhl für Siedlungswasserwirtschaft, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, e-mail: j.drewes@tum.de

Project partner
LfU

Short description
The particles used in the method validation are subjected to systematic aging processes and biofilm growth. Furthermore, these particles and especially their (resulting) different surfaces were examined regarding their adsorption or desorption characteristics of organic molecules. For this analysis, adsorption and desorption kinetics, among other things, were investigated. This was done by applying TD-(Pyrolysis)-GC-MS and LC-MS/MS. Experiments with the aged particles were carried out in so-called batch approaches, but also in laboratory wastewater treatment plants operated at the LfU. All samples were also stored in the biological systems of WP 5 if required.

WP 4 Investigations on entry points and process-related evaluation

Contact person
Dr. Korbinian Freier, Bavarian State Office for the Environment, Demollstraße 31, 82407 Wielenbach, e-mail:korbinian.freier@lfu.bayern.de

Project partner
TUM-SWW, IUTA

Short description
Using the methods developed and validated in WP 2, real scenarios were first simulated with reference particles in laboratory wastewater treatment plants at the partner LfU to analyse the fate of the particles within the system. Parallel to this, investigations were carried out at various measuring points in real wastewater treatment plants. Water samples were certified by IUTA for micropollutants. The aim was to extend the existing sampling technologies to micropollutants. Finally, together with the other partners of the project and based on the expected results, a process-related evaluation was carried out.

WP 5 Impact on aquatic environment and human health

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Michael Pfaffl, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Chair of Animal Physiology and Immunology, Weihenstephaner Berg 3, 85354 Freising, e-mail: michael.pfaffl@wzw.tum.de

Project partner
TAM-LAS, IGOE

Short description
Potential negative effects of submicroparticles on different biological organisational levels were investigated and compared to obtain a comprehensive ecotoxicological evaluation. This includes the use of model systems in vivo to determine effects on microbial diversity, communities and trophic structures and functions as well as to identify stress reactions on a higher organismic level. In vitro models extended this approach for the determination of effects on the cellular and molecular level. Based on this a mechanistic understanding of particle-induced stress reactions was created and potential effects on human health were derived.

WP 6 Social, political and legal dimensions

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Ruth Müller, Technical University of Munich, Assistant Professorship of Science and Technology Policy, Augustenstraße 46, 80333 Munich, e-mail: ruth.mueller@tum.de

Project partner
UBA

Short description
At TUM-MCTS current problem perceptions and coping strategies in society and politics with regard to plastic particles in the environment were analysed by means of qualitative social scientific methods. The focus lay on the perception of the specific ecotoxicological relevance of submicroparticles. UBA carried out a screening of the relevant legal acts at national, European and intercontinental levels. The consideration goes beyond the pure media reference (water, soil and air) and the associated possible transport paths. In particular, the legally undefined range between nano- (limit: 100 nm) and microplastics (frequently stated limit: 1 μm) is of primary interest.

Coordinator

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg E. Drewes
Technical University of Munich,
Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering / TUM-SWW
Am Coulombwall 3
85748 Garching
Phone: +49 89 2891 3701 bzw. -3718
e-mail: jdrewes@tum.de

Website

Partner Institutions

Technical University of Munich

Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry / TUM-IWC

Chair of Animal Physiology and Immunology/ TUM-LTI

Chair of Aquatic Systems Biology / TUM-LAS

Assistant Professorship of Science and Technology Policy / TUM-MCTS

Helmholtz Centre Munich, Institute of Groundwater Ecology / IGOE

Bavarian State Office for the Environment / LfU

Federal Environmental Agency / UBA

Institute of Energy and Environmental Technology e. V. / IUTA

Postnova Analytics GmbH

BS-Partikel GmbH

Duration Period

September 2017

June 2021

Tags

Adsorption

Scanning electron microscopy

Infraref spectroscopy

Sewage treatment plant

in vitro test systems

Raman microspectroscopy

Nano plastics

Field flow fractionation

Project sheet

09_Projektblatt_SubµTrack_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label