Compared with macroplastics, micro/nano plastic particles in the environment have several unique properties, such as a higher surface to volume ratio leading to increased surface reactivities and stable colloid characteristics. Thus, their unique properties probably make their transport behavior in porous media different from other colloids, such as graphene and TiO_2.

Organic substances, like low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) and humic acid, is quite common in groundwater and soil solution. LMWOAs can be adsorbed by colloids resulting in changes in surface properties of colloids. Thus, it is reasonable to draw the conclusion that these organic substances will affect the transport of micro/nano plastic particles in porous media. But we do not know the results and extent. Column experiment is a good way to investigate and understand the effects of organic acids on the transport of micro/nano plastics. We can do it together in the future.

In our lab, we have High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Fluorescence Spectrophotometer and Column experiment equipment, which will do you a great favor in sample measurement. Besides, we also cooperate with other departments to do Zeta potential measurement, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). It is an excellent opportunity to develop yourself.

This project is funded by SFB project---CRC 1357 Micro plastic

If you are interested in this research, or you have some questions, don't hesitate to tell me. Email: taotao.lu@uni-bayreuth.de