Current or recently expired projects and funding
Current:
Recently expired:
Current personal grants:
* Ph.D. - Student Barbara Krupinska: grant from the FWO
* Dr. Anna De Maeyer-Worobiec: postdoc position (2007-2010) from the FWO
Current:
"Educational Linkage Approach in Cultural Heritage (ELAICH)"
The general objective of ELAICH is to strenghten and consolidate mutual understanding and dialogue between cultures by promotion of Mediterranean cultural heritage and public awareness-raising. The specific objective of ELAICH is to contribute to awareness-raising in the Mediterranean partner countries in particular to the importance of cultural heritage and its diversity and to encourage the accessibility to and the knowledge of cultural heritage.
Period
2009 - 2012
"Atmospheric deposition fluxes of ship emissions to the Belgian North Sea (SHIPFLUX)"
The
objectives of the SHIPFLUX project is to quantify the effects of ship emission
in terms of the gaseous air pollutants and aerosols (e.g. elemental and
water-soluble fraction of size-segregated aerosols, and some persistent organic
pollutants) over the coastal waters of the Southern North Sea and at a coastal
spot at De Haan (Belgium) both in wet and dry deposition from atmospheric
samples (gaseous, aerosol and precipitation); to compare and contrast temporal
and seasonal differences in pollutant fluxes atmospherically deposited over
North Sea waters. The sampling will be performed during cruises onboard research
vessels, particularly along and crossing the international shipping routes. The
analyses and statistical evaluation will make a precise pollution inventory of
ship emission over the Southern Bight of the North Sea possible. These emission
inventories can be used for the calculation of the overall daily, seasonal and
annual ship emissions by taking into account the frequency of traffic for the
region concerned. Also, within the frame of this project, the Flemish
Technological Research Institute (VITO) is a
cooperating partner, whose task is to model the ship emission over the coastal
waters of the Southern North Sea. The final goal is to make a comparison of
model and experimental results of ship emission and related pollutant deposition
over the coastal North Sea waters.
Period
2009 - 2011
"Assessment of atmospheric environmental risks related to artworks in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage complex of Alhambra (Granada, Spain) with the emphasis on the analysis of a unique collection of authentic pigment samples"
The present research aims to characterize the materials and gaseous and particulate atmospheric pollutants at the Alhambra monumental complex in order to assess their contribution to the weathering processes on its artworks. A combination of micro-analytical techniques will be applied for in-depth characterisation of materials and pollutants. A plan for preventive conservation of the monument will be proposed based on the achieved results.
Period
2008 - 2013
"Technologies and tools to prioritize assessment and diagnosis of air pollution impact on immovable and movable cultural heritage (TeACH)"
Most
buildings of cultural/historical interest are located in urban environments.
They undergo a number of different external forcings, which need to be addressed
separately. It is important to consider local-scale variations of the urban
environment, such as changes in pollutants, temperature field, relative humidity
cycles, wind field, urban beat island effect etc. The most important challenge
at the present time is to understand the different types of damage to cultural
heritage that environmental changes will cause. In fact, the available scenarios
of multi-pollutants trends in Europe and the world indicate that the effects of
industrial, civil and transport emissions on corrosion and soiling will
constitute a serious threat to cultural heritage. Such effects require improved
methods of quantification to arrive at a more accurate damage assessment,
diagnosis and monitoring of the movable and immovable cultural heritage.
The high costs of preventive conservation and maintenance of the built cultural
environment urgently impose the prioritization of air pollution monitoring in
order to ensure a sustainable protection. For the purpose of attaining these
goals, ad hoc devices and tools are necessary to identify and monitor the
changing damage processes affecting immovable and movable cultural heritage.
This will be reached with TeACH developing its objectives. Among these, the main
ones are: identify the multi-pollutants and prioritize the principal ones;
identify ways of improving the more reliable and efficient among existing
technologies and tools, particularly a new compact and economical kit of
instruments; deliver guidelines for the future prioritization of air pollution
and disseminate the results.
Period
2008 - 2011
"Modelling the geochemical CO2 fluxes from carbonaceous soils"
Specific objectives of the project are:
1.
Coupling of a biological and a geochemical model.
2. Collecting the missing model parameters and apply the newly produced
biogeochemical model at two study sites in contrasting climates.
3. Validate the model outputs with the measured CO2 fluxes and their 13C/12C
ratios.
4. Interpreting the primary biological and geological fluxes in relation to
their dominant drivers.
5. One of the two study sites is located on top of the Altamira cave, world
famous for its Palaeolithic cave paintings. Using the biogeochemical model, we
will determine the risk for damage of the paintings under conditions of climate
change or alternative cave management.
Period
2008 - 2011
"Optimization of measurement conditions of combined micro analytical techniques, in particular EPMA and MRS, for the research regarding the preventive conservation methods for cultural heritage"
In the framework of a Ph.D.-research (Ms. Barbara Krupińska), we ’ll try to optimize the existing micro- and trace analytical techniques as electron probe X-ray micro analysis (EPMA), micro-Raman spectrometry (MRS) and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF), to obtain the most relevant information for the determination of the weathering of art objects, the optimization of conservation techniques and the so-called ”preventive protection” of the cultural patrimony. This analytical combination could yield the most relevant information. This concerns not only the surface- and material research, to determine the already caused effects of air pollution and the weathering of art objects, but also to determine the current atmospherical conditions (out- and indoor air) and to identify the potential dangerous components, and to reduce them preventively if necessary. The application of EPMA and MRS has of course a long history in the research of the art patrimony. Separately they are highly optimized. These analytical techniques are up to now applied as separate and independent measuring methods and the results were for the time being separately interpreted. Therefore this research includes a number of separate fundamental aspects, to perform measurements with EPMA and MRS simultaneously in a combined instrument, and to combine the data of these analytical methods.
Period
2008 - 2010
"The properties and environmental risks of atmospheric aerosol particles presently emanating from the Chernobyl power plant"
At present, the direct radiation exposure to the environment from the Chernobyl IV plant, which exploded in 1986, has been reduced significantly due to radioactive decay. Also, much of the alpha-emitting radionuclides in the local soil and ground water have probably leached out or decayed. However, the molten fuel material within the concrete shelter, the so-called “Sarcophagus”, is continuously releasing atmospheric aerosols, mostly due to the crystallisation of the amorphous lava-like materials, fastened by its local radioactivity and the repelling of these micro-crystals due to electric charging of the surface layer of the lava because of the alpha-radioactivity. It is estimated that some 50 kg of these radioactive aerosols escape from the Sarcophagus which cannot be airtight due to the helium gas production from alpha radioactivity. These aerosols might at present constitute the major hazard from Chernobyl, not only locally but also over distances of many hundreds of km. All this depends on the physical and chemical properties of the emanating aerosols, and nearly nothing is known about this at the moment.
Period
2007 - 2010
"Chemical interactions between cultural artifacts and indoor environment [(Enviart), Cost Action D42]"
The
conservation of cultural heritage is the duty of all nations for ethical
reasons. Decision makers have now started to understand that the caring about
cultural heritage and especially about museum, library and archival collections
is also a valuable long-term investment for their economy and in the interest of
their citizens. The quality of the indoor environment is decisive for the
preservation of a collection. Sensitive materials displayed in an aggressive
environment may suffer from chemical attack by pollutants, leading to
irreversible damage within only a few weeks of inappropriate exposure.
Environmental monitoring campaigns in storage rooms, galleries, show-cases and
libraries are undertaken wherever skilled staff and sufficient resources are
available.
However,
in order to establish the concept of risk assessment for the more sensitive
categories of objects, there is a profound need to improve the knowledge of the
effects of the indoor environment on the ageing of cultural artifacts. The
interpretation of the results of the impact of pollutants on the degradation of
artifacts (in combination with other environmental parameters, such as humidity
and temperature) and consequently any appropriate measure to prevent damage,
requires a close collaboration between multidisciplinary key players: chemists
concerned with environment effects and materials degradation, conservators,
conservation scientists, art historian curators, environmental engineers,
show-case manufacturers, and even politicians and decision makers concerned with
international standards.
This
action will explore chemical interactions between cultural artifacts and typical
indoor environmental conditions through field studies and laboratory experiments
and translate the results into preventive conservation practice. The action
focuses on the chemical impacts of pollutants on materials, thus also
considering physical and environmental aspects, material technology, chemical
analytics, emission and standardization.
Period
2007 - 2010
"Combined "Thin Window" EPMA and µ-Raman techniques for the chemical and structural characterisation of environmental particles: optimalisation of the measuring strategy and data interpretation; correlation with data of XANES and XRD"
The ultimate goal of the post-doc research will be the further optimisation of the measurements strategy with the "thin window" Electron Probe X-ray Microanalysis (EPMA) and micro-Raman Spectrometry (MRS), tested in the previous years. The instruments will be used both independently and in the interfaced mode. This innovative application will be studied oriented with respect to both chemical composition and physical and structural characterisation of natural and anthropogenic environmental particles. The attention will also be paid to interpretation of the data from both techniques.
Period
2007 - 2010
"Center of Excellence ECO (Methusalem Project)"
Of the 216 research groups of the University of Antwerp, 10 were chosen as Centers of Excellence, to form 4 clusters (ECO, NANO, NEURO and SOCIO). The main theme of the Center of Excellence ECO is the study of the effects of changes in the abiotic (i.e. non-living) environment on ecological systems, on the condition and health of plants and animals, including humans, and on the cultural heritage. With regard to the ecological systems hierarchical levels ranging from the cell and organism, over ecosystems to the landscape and region, are considered. Essentially we examine both causes (abiotic changes, disturbance of the living environment, various stress situations) and their consequences (ecophysiological and chemical response processes at different levels of organisation). The research has a basic fundamental nature, but has also a methodological aspect. In a number of cases the research will also result in or lead to relevant practical applications.
Researchers:
| Promotor: | Prof. Ceulemans Reinhart |
| Co-promotor: | Prof. Blust Ronny |
| Co-promotor: | Prof. Van Grieken René |
Research Team:
Plant and Vegetation Ecology
Period
2006 - 2014
Recently expired:
"Utilising combined Electron Probe Micro Analysis / micro Raman Spectrometry (MRS) to investigate the interrelationship between air quality and the degradation of building materials"
The project will use combined Electron Probe Micro Analysis and micro-Raman spectrometry (EPMA-MRS) determinations to elucidate the contribution of various atmospheric components on the degree and mechanism of degradation of selected building materials (more specifically those commonly used in Sub-Saharan Africa) in order to recommend improvements in their use and application. Parallel Electron probe micro analysis and micro Raman spectrometry techniques will be used to perform analyses of degradation products of both accelerated and real-time corroded samples (mortar, galvanized iron and aluminium). The project will enhance collaboration between Belgian and African researchers and a transfer of expertise from the postdoctoral candidate (Dr. Sanja Vermaak) to the Belgian research group at the University of Antwerp.
Period
2009
"Molecular characteristics of inhalable fraction of ambient particulate matter by means of micro-Raman spectrometry"
The main goal of this project would be the application of surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect for the molecular analysis of ambient inhalable PM. SERS effect is the enhancement of a Raman signal through an interaction between an examined sample and a substrate designed especially for the SERS purpose. The main difference between conventional substrates for aerosol sampling and SERS substrates is the layer of silver and gold and the surface roughness; these two conditions are essential to enhance the Raman signal from a substance deposited on the surface.
Period
2009
"Providing scientific assistance in the sediment fingerprinting of the Waterbouwkundig Laboratorium"
Sediment Fingerprinting is a tool that can be used to discriminate between individual sediment sources in rivers, which can be defined as spatial sources or source types. The technique is based on the idea that each sediment source can be characterized with a unique fingerprint. Using this fingerprint, the contribution of all sampled sources to the total suspended sediment load in the river can be quantified. Many parameters are needed for sediment fingerprinting in order to increase the probability to have a discriminative fingerprint. XRF analyses of suspended sediment and its sources are very attractive for this purpose, as it can provide the bulk concentration of a large amount of elements in the sediment. The first important step in this project will therefore be the development of a validated XRF method with a maximal elemental output. Another key task in this project involves the laboratory preparation and the XRF analysis of suspended sediment samples, as well as river bed, river bank and soil samples collected in the framework of this project. Additionally, the reproducibility and reliability of every step in the sample preparation and analysis process should be assessed and, if needed, optimized.
Period
2008 - 2009
"Preventive conservation/presentation in the museum Plantin-Moretus/Prentenkabinet, Antwerp"
Plantin-Moretus/Prentenkabinet is the exceptional museum with a rich collection of old books, manuscripts and a great variety of original typographical material. It contains also paintings, furniture and other precious objects which constitute the cultural history of the Plantin and Moretus’ family. All these pieces of art (partly originating from the XVIth century) can be significantly and harmfully influenced by inappropriate conditions of maintenance.
The aim of this project is to characterize gaseous and particulate atmospheric pollutants, to observe the change of their concentrations among different seasons of the year and to evaluate their effect on objects collected in the museum, mainly old books and manuscripts. The research is focused on the air quality inside showcases, widely used in the museum. The improvement of collection storage conditions in respect of preventive conservation will be considered.
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Period
2008 - 2009
"Structural and chemical characterisation of materials on the micro- and nanometer scale"
The study of surfaces, interfaces, microscopic
and even nanoscopic structures becomes more and more important in the
characterization of very diverse materials in metallurgy, microelectronics,
optoelectronics, photographic sciences etc.
This characterization is mostly carried out using so-called (micro)beam
techniques. By interaction of a "primary" beam (electrons, photons,
ions), "secondary" signals are generated at the material's surface
(electrons, photons, ions, neutrals), which contain information on the
composition and/or structure of the material's surface. The various techniques
differ in the kind of information, i.e. information depth, depth resolution,
possibility to measure depth profiles, lateral resolution, compatibility with
certain types of materials (electrical insulator vs. conductor, refractory vs.
labile material), destructive or non-destructive character and type of
information (elemental, isotopic, molecular). It is clear that one method cannot
answer all questions. Moreover, the required equipment is very expensive. It is
not possible for one research group to have in-house all infrastructure,
accessories, know-how, know-why, and experienced personnel. Cooperation is
therefore a must. The scientific research community aims at facilitating mutual
consultations, exchanges and access to complementary equipment for solving a
variety of problems, introduced by one or more of its members.
Period
1999 - 2009
"Indoor climate in the living environments of young children (day-care centres)"
Children are very vulnerable to many environmental factors as air pollution, chemicals, water pollution, soil pollution, radiation, … . Therefore the living environment in day-care centres is very important. A questionnaire has been formulated to evaluate the quality of the indoor environment in these centres. About 700 day-care centres were screened and the results were handled statistically by the Scientific Institute of Public Health. In a second phase of the project, 25 centres were selected to compare the answers of the questionnaires with analytical results.
Period
2007 - 2008
"The development and optimization of an efficient, user-friendly personal protection of schoolgoing children against air pollution in urban environments"
Official
spokesman UA: Prof. R. Van Grieken
Co-promoter
UA: Prof. K. Desager
Promoter
HA (
Co-promoter
HA (
In
spite of various governmental efforts to reduce ambient air pollution in urban
environments, citizens are exposed to polluted air. Due to the growing evidence
of a causal relationship between ambient air pollution and asthma related
symptoms, an urgent solution is required. Since children are known to be the
most susceptible population to air pollution, this project aims at the
development of an efficient, personal protection suitable for children, which
they can wear during bike rides in the city e.g. at high air pollution episodes.
The
new personal protection for children should remove fine dust from the inhaled
air, and thus reduce the asthma prevalence in children during high air pollution
episodes. However, next to the efficiency, the user-friendliness of the product
is of crucial importance as well. This
collaboration between the
The extended list of specifications will be established as a result of the multidisciplinary approach of the problem, which will allow a targeted and guided product development. Methodological research in product development has shown that an extensive and profound preliminary study of economical, scientific/technological and social sciences increases the chance to create a successful product and reduces the duration of a product development process (Koen et al., 2002).
In
order to achieve this approach, 5 criteria each in a different research area,
will be studied. These include: medical aspects, technology, study of shape,
usability and price. Throughout the whole process Product Development will have
a central function; collecting and evaluating all relevant information from
different fields, supported by experts in the different scientific fields. The
participation of ‘Environmental Analysis’ will allow a critical approach of
all existing filtration materials, techniques and methods, which can be used as
a protective medium against fine dust. Experiments will be organised to perform
efficiency measurements. The participation of ‘Paediatrics’ will provide the
necessary medical optimisations tests and respondents for usability studies.
An additional critical point in this research is the social impact of a protection against air pollution for children. A study of communicating environmental risks to specific target groups is of crucial importance as well.
Period
2007 - 2008
"Chemical characterisation of individual fine particulate matter with respect to their health impact"
The main goal of this research project is to investigate the composition of size segregated airborne particles with respect to the health risk attributable to particulate matter air pollution in the urban, suburban and rural region. This study is directly related to the current projects carried out by the host unit: “Health effects of particulate matter in relation to physical-chemical characteristics and meteorology (PARHEALTH)" in cooperation with partners from KULeuven, UGent, ULBrussels and KMI.
The selection of sampling sites was done in collaboration with the mentioned project partners. The target groups of people, most sensitive to air pollution, were elderly people and children. To investigate the health response of elderly people, one service flat in an urban area (Antwerp city centre) was selected, where samples were collected for 2 weeks in a row, both indoors and outdoors. The sampling procedure, beside of collecting bulk samples, involved also sampling of size-segregated particulate matter with Berner impactor connected to a Becker pump with a maximum flow ca. 30 l/min. Samples were collected on Si and Ag substrates. During the two weeks campaign, there were 12 sets of size segregated samples collected, 6 ones every week.
SEM/EDX analysis was followed by the fitting of X-ray spectra with WinAxil software, followed by the calculation of elemental weight concentration of each analysed particle. The recalculation of X-ray spectra to the relevant weight concentrations was done by a home-made software Elementary, which is designed for a standardless analysis based on the Monte Carlo simulations.
Period
2007 - 2008
"Estimation of hazardous metals concentrations in ambient urban air taken up by a human respiratory system"
Researchers have already carried out some studies on the influences of aerosol particles on human health. Recent epidemiological studies have provided evidences for the association of airborne particulate matter concentrations with adverse respiratory health effects. However, a qualitative description of the particles for a detailed toxicological evaluation of particulate matter exposure has not been characterized well. The question still remains as to which kinds of particles adversely affect human health and how. The aim of this project is to review and summarize the levels of particulate matters in ambient urban air, its hazardous metal composition, and its health effects on human respiratory system. The target groups were particularly selected from the elderly people and children who are sensitive to air pollution. Thus, the average daily intake of these metals by inhalation could be established by these people.
Period
2007 - 2008
"Study of the damage to the individual solid particles during analysis with the electron and the laser beams"
To obtain more detailed
information concerning the composition of the
The idea of the combined
application of the EPMA and MRS is to generate as much as possible elemental and
also molecular spectra and then preferably of the same particle. The combined
use of EPMA and MRS methods leads to several fundamental difficulties, in
particular the laser and electron sensitivity of the particles.
The project concerns
fundamental research and deals with further optimising of the measuring
conditions, quantification procedures and data evaluation techniques for
chemical (both elemental and molecular) analysis of individual particles.
The idea of this project is
based on the temporary observation during the measurements of welding aerosol
particles, which are carried out in the framework of the UA-BOF
project concerning the laser beam damage of individual particles when analysed
by the InVIA Raman spectrometer coupled to the JEOL EPMA/SEM/EDX.
Temporary results show also
that the ”beam damage” process under the laser beam happens on a totally
different manner than under the electron beam.
Period
2007
"Indoor air quality for health-related components in offices, schools and residences in the province of Antwerp"
Official spokesman: Prof. R. Van Grieken
Promoter:
Dr. A. Worobiec
Because
nowadays so much attention is paid to the enormous health risks related to fine
particulate matter, both in the press and in the policy, a study dealing with
fine particulate matter and other air pollutants in indoor environments in the
Province of Antwerp is socially very relevant. Schoolchildren seem to be the
most sensitive to air pollution. Because nowadays very few data are available
concerning PM10 and PM2.5 and no data are available
concerning PM1 and PM0.1, which will become in the future
even more important, this study is certainly opening up new horizons.
This
project must lead to a better assessment of the indoor air quality in the
Province of Antwerp, mainly regarding fine particulate matter. The indoor air
quality in industrial workshops is controlled regularly, but to the air quality
in schools and offices, and also in houses, generally no attention is paid. The
sampling of indoor air in schools, offices and houses is thus completely new in
Flanders.
An
air pollution component to which nowadays much attention is paid is fine
particulate matter of PM2.5 (i.e. particulate matter with dimensions
smaller than 2.5 µm). This fine particulate matter can permeate deeply in the
respiratory system, can be absorbed in the bloodstream and cause local
inflammations: this leads to asthma-attacks, bronchitis, lung cancer and heart-
and vascular diseases.
The
potential danger of indoor air pollution is assessed by the determination of the
exact chemical composition of the gaseous phase (for health relevant components)
and mainly of the particulate matter with special attention to the fine and
ultrafine fraction in the air. Specific stress is laid on the chemical
composition and the properties of the individual particles (each of them can
have a different effect depending on the composition).
In
this research only air pollutants which can possibly cause harmful effects
on health are investigated. It concerns thus both the fine particulate matter,
PM10, PM2.5, PM1 and PM0.1 and the
gaseous pollutants sulphur dioxide SO2, nitrogen oxides NOx,
ozon O3, and the so-called BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, o-,
m- and p-xylene).
The
strategy implies the sampling of air in selected schools, offices and houses
during one week, once in the winter and once in the summer, and subsequently the
analysis of the samples with micro- and trace analysis techniques. The study
implies a new methodology for the analysis of air samples, including the
following methods: electron probe X-ray micro analysis (EPMA), energy-dispersive
X-ray fluorescence analysis (EDXRF), µ-Raman spectrometry, ion chromatography
(IC), “UV-Visible” spectrometry and gas chromatography coupled to mass
spectrometry (GC/MS).
In
a first phase of the project a detailed selection of the schools, offices and
houses is carried out. Selection factors are formulated such as the technical
condition and age of the building, the location (e.g. the traffic, local
pollution sources and the distance to these), difference in ventilation
practices and in isolation, the sort of heating, the presence of
airconditioning, etc. The sampling happens both in rural and in urbanized areas
of the Province of Antwerp and in the surrounding area of important industries.
Concerning
the sampling and analysis of fine particulate matter in total-samples (PM10
fraction) the “bulk” samples of the aerosol particles are collected by using
“stacked filter units”. The filters are analysed by using EDXRF and ions
such as SO42-, NO3-, NH4+
and Cl- are determined by IC. Concerning the sampling and analysis of
individual fine particles (with the stress on PM2.5-, PM1-
and PM0.1- fractions) the samples are collected by using a Cascade
impactor. These samples are analysed via EPMA and selected individual particles
are also characterised by a recent developed µ-Raman technique. For the
sampling and analysis of organic and inorganic gases, so-called passive
diffusion tubes (Radiello®) are used. NOx and SO2 are
analysed by using IC, and BTEX are determined by means of coupled
gas-chromatography and ion-trap mass spectrometry.
Period
2007
"Health effects of particulate matter in relation to physical-chemical characteristics and meteorology (PARHEALTH)"
Numerous studies have shown a strong
association between daily mortality and fine particulate air pollution. However,
component-specific toxicity has not been characterized well. In this regard the
research unit of lung toxicology (KULeuven)
collected unique data for Belgium on the association between fine particulate air pollution and mortality (total,
cardiovascular and respiratory mortality) showing that the effects of air
pollution are much stronger in summer than in winter, even in our temperate
climate. Until now, we can only speculate about the mechanisms underlying
the much stronger association between mortality and particulates during warmer
periods, even though particulate levels reach higher values in the winter.
This project aims at reducing
the health risks and health costs attributable to particulate pollution, through
the identification of components that are responsible for the adverse health
effects. In a cohort of children and a cohort of elderly, we will measure
cardiovascular and respiratory parameters in the same person within the day and
across seasons and evaluate their relationship with both physical properties and
specific inorganic and organic components associated with particulates. This specific experimental design will allow us to study the particulate induced
effects, in association with ozone peaks, independently of the direct
meteorological effects.
Elucidating the component
specific toxicity and the pathophysiology of the association between
cardiopulmonary effects of particulate exposure may open an important new avenue
for the prevention of cardiopulmonary complications and the environmental
regulations of particulate air pollution. An improved knowledge on which
chemical compounds are associated with the adverse health effects will achieve
cost-effective reductions in health risks to populations. In view of the high
prevalence of cardiopulmonary illness, even a small benefit in terms of
preventable cases, will lead to an appreciable decrease in morbidity, an
increase in longevity, and in turn, to a decrease in health care costs. This
project will also advise the National and Regional Governments on environmental
regulations, permissible levels of particulate exposure with characterisation of
specific compounds, and strategies to identify at an early stage subjects at an
increased cardiopulmonary risk.
Partners
Period
2006 - 2009
"Integration of analysis techniques of different scales using X-ray induced and electron induced X-ray spectrometry for applications in preventive conservation and environmental monitoring" (IAEA)
XRF,
and especially the more nuclear-related EDXRF, allows bulk analysis at the ppm
level. Special techniques are micro-XRF and TXRF for µm-size resolution and
sub-ppb detection limits, respectively. Unifying, e.g. for atmospheric aerosol
studies (and for environmental particles in general), bulk XRF with single
particle EPXMA allows much better to identify the sources of such particles, to
assess their external heterogeneity and to obtain information about their
surface layers and the reactions they have undergone during their atmospheric
residence. Analysis with single particle and size information is important for
assessing the potential of these particles which can penetrate deep into the
lungs and can be deposited on works of art. Furthermore, bulk analysis with much
better sensitivity allows obtaining information about e.g. heavy metals.
As a part of this project, first we will share the advances we have made so far in all the methodologies and applications with the other participants of the coordinated research project (CRP). This should help some participants to quickly progress and avoid all the pitfalls we have encountered over the years. Scaling up (from EPXMA or µ-XRF) or down (to bulk XRF) is not trivial in analysis. Different numerical and software approaches are needed to quantify the results for e.g. single particle analysis for low-Z elements where very important matrix effects occur. These will be developed further in this CRP. The single particle analysis (SPA) generates enormously large data sets, which have to be handled by suitable numerical analysis methods, including cluster analysis etc. The combination of both quantification methods and particle data classification methods for EPXMA will generate results, which, when added over numerous representative particles, are to be compared to the results of bulk analysis by XRF. This unified approach will thus generate more relevant information to the study topic. This is even truer when non-nuclear analysis techniques, with different characteristics, are implied as well. And hence, as a second stage of the project the methodological requirements for the up scaling and unification of the involved techniques will be studied further in cooperation with other participants. We have already some experience in applying unified analysis techniques to problems which are relevant nowadays, environmental research related to health and ecology, preventive conservation in indoor and outdoor environments and material science. We will develop this further and, if desired, apply this to problems that are of interest to participants from the other Member States. The outcome will be that in the Member States new information about e.g. the effects of air pollution on human health and on cultural heritage items will be available. After the problems have been identified, solutions could be proposed.
Period
2006 - 2009
"Identification and prognosis of atmospheric pollution in selected health resorts of Lower Silesia after the modernisation of the two largest industrial plants in this region" (Bilateral Flemish-Polish research project)
Lower
Silesia is a province located in the south-western part of Poland, sharing its
borders with Germany and the Czech Republic. Its location in the Sudety
Mountains makes it rich with various natural resources, like copper ores, brown
coal, natural gas, etc. Moreover, this region is very famous for its health
resorts offering mineral waters. They are well-known not only in Poland but also
in many other European countries.
Exploration and consumption of brown coal and copper ores, which is fundamental for the local economy, appeared a reason for environmental deterioration. The development of power plants and copper industry made part of this area one of the most polluted areas in whole Europe, the so-called “Black Triangle”. After the political changes in Middle Europe, a significant effort has been made to stop the deterioration process and to reduce emission from the two largest industrial branches: the power plant and the copper metallurgy plant. A permanent air monitoring system to control the level of SO2, NOX, O3 and CO has been established. However, no effort has been made towards the comprehensive investigation (referred to elemental and molecular composition of individual particles) of atmospheric aerosols, while recent research proved a negative effect of particulate matter, especially of the fine fraction (PM1 or even PM2.5), on health condition. The results of a detailed physico-chemical analysis of aerosols and dust can be a way to estimate the influence of air pollution on atmospheric environment and human health. On the other hand, remediation strategies depend very much on the impact of the pollutions sources through the different pathways. For this reason a complex prevention approach is needed in the region attractive for its health resorts.
The
aim of this project is to investigate physical and chemical properties of
atmospheric aerosols in the selected health resorts of Lower Silesia, located in
the Polish part of the “Black Triangle”. The field of investigation involves
morphology and elemental analysis of individual dust particles by means of
scanning electron microscope equipped with X-ray detector (SEM/EDS), automated
electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPMA), quantitative bulk analysis of
suspended particulate matter by means of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF)
and application of micro-Raman spectroscopy to determine its molecular
composition. Additionally, a method of stable isotope analysis will be developed
to be suitable for dust particles passively and dynamically sampled. Monitoring
of gaseous pollutants will be enhanced by the determination of light organic
compounds with passive sampling applied. The obtained results will be applied to
create a theoretical basis and estimation of the observed correlations and
statistical modeling.
The
research group in Antwerp has been cooperating since long with the team from the
Catholic University of Lublin (Department of Chemistry) with respect to X-ray
techniques applied to the analysis of samples with a complex matrix, both
individual particles (aerosols, sands, sediments) and large-size solids.
The application of the isotopic technique for aerosols research will be a real
challenge because of a very small sample mass. The long-term experience of the
Laboratory of Isotope Geology and Geoecology (from the University of Wrocław) is
essential to design and perform these experiments. The Ecologistics and
Atmosphere Protection Division, a part of the Environment Protection Engineering
Institute at the Wrocław University of Technology (WUT), is well experienced in
air pollution and cloud monitoring, as well as combination of atmospheric
dispersion and statistical modeling techniques. Currently, their research is
turned to organic compounds detected in urban air, as well as methods of
processing and analysis of data collected by environmental monitoring systems (application
of statistical methods and neural network theory for air pollution).
The project is supported by the Flemish Administration for Innovation and Science (AWI) and the Polish government.
Polish
promoter:
Prof.
Anna Zwozdziak, Wrocław University of Technology, Institute of Environmental
Engineering (Ecological and Atmospheric Protection Division), Wybrzeze Wyspiańskiego
27, 50-370 Wrocław,
Poland, Tel: + 48 71 3202500, Fax : + 48 71 3203599
E-mail:
anna.zwozdziak@pwr.wroc.pl,
Website:
http://www.pwr.wroc.pl/eng/files/w_srodowisko.htm
Polish
co-promoters:
* Prof. Andrzej Kuczumow, Catholic University of Lublin, Department of Chemistry, al. Krasnicka 102, 20-718 Lublin, Poland, Tel: +48 81 4454625,
Fax:
+48 81 4454610, E-mail: kuczon@kul.lublin.pl
* Prof. Mariusz Orion Jędrysek, University of Wrocław, Institute of Geological Science, Laboratory of Isotope Geology and Biogeochemistry,
ul. Cybulskiego 30, 50-205 Wrocław, Poland, Tel: + 48 71 3759202, Fax: +48 71 3759371, E-mail: morion@ing.uni.wroc.pl
Period
2006 - 2008
"Measurement of ions and heavy metals in PM10 in the air over Flanders"
The aim of this project is the chemical characterisation of PM10 in the air over Flanders. Six sampling sites are chosen, namely Aarschot and Houtem (rural), Hasselt and Mechelen (suburban), Borgerhout (urban) and Zelzate (industrial).
Elemental and organic carbon;
Na+, NH4+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+,
Cl-, NO3-, SO42- (by IC)
and Al, As, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, Pd, Pt, Rh, Si, Ti, V, Zn (by
EDXRF) are determined. For IC analysis and the determination of elemental and
organic carbon samples are collected on quartz filters (Whatman QM-A). For EDXRF
measurements Teflon filters (Pall Teflo) are used.
The IC measurements are performed on a DX-120 ion chromatograph with autosampler AS 50 (Dionex, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). The ions are detected by suppressed conductivity using self-regenerating suppressers.
The
EDXRF spectrometer (Epsilon 5 from PANalytical, Almelo, The Netherlands) has a powerful X-ray tube, 3D polarizing geometry, up to 15
secondary targets and a high-resolution Ge-detector. The method has been
calibrated with MicroMatter standards which are thin polymer films with pure
element deposition. The concentrations of the standards have been determined by
a weighting procedure by the manufacturer. The method has been validated by NIST
standards (SRM 2783 - Nuclepore filter with deposited PM10).
Period
2006 - 2007
"Quantitative procedures for in situ X-ray fluorescence analysis of soils" (Bilateral Flemish-Argentinean research project)
Flemish copromoter: Dr. Anna Worobiec (UA)
Argentinean promoter:
Prof.
Cristina Vazquez, National Commission of Atomic Energy (Comisión Nacional de
Energía Atómica - CNEA), Av. Gral. Paz 1499, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel.
+54-11-6772-7885
Fax
+54-11-6772-7886
E-mail:
Cristina.Vazquez@cnea.gov.ar
Argentinean
copromoters:
Dr.
Susana Boeykens and Dr. Graciela Custo, CNEA
Environmental problems caused
by different industrial activities are of high importance all over the world.
The adequate screening of the soil plays a significant role, since soil
pollution could have enormous impact on the contamination processes of ground
water, in agriculture, etc. Especially in the case of toxic and heavy metals,
the contaminants identification and monitoring is of great importance.
The objective of screening
requires an optimised sampling strategy, which involves an adequate number of
samples from a representative number of places. The location of the places plays
also an important role in this process. In the case of the environmental
screening, the number of samples is usually very high. In most of the cases, the
samples should also be analysed in the shortest possible time. For these
purposes, the "in situ analysis" is one of the most adequate and
representative methods used in environmental monitoring. The project anticipates
applying this powerful methodology, in particular for the screening of polluted
soils for metallic contaminants.
In this context, X-Ray
Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry is perhaps the first available spectroscopic
technique, which can be successfully applied in the field and in industrial
environments for the in situ analysis. The portable Energy Dispersive XRF
spectrometer performs non-destructive analysis of elements from sodium through
to uranium, in concentrations down to ppm levels. The incorporated software
implies that the EDXRF system is capable of determining virtually the full range
of elements with no special accessories or modifications. For "in situ"
inspection or identification of unknown substances, the portable XRF
spectrometer offers a standardless-analysis feature. Based on theoretical models
and specially developed algorithms, this allows quick analysis of unknown
samples.
The scientific plan of the
project presented here foresees an applied and a fundamental research part. The
application part foresees the following steps:
1) Design of sampling strategy;
2) Collection of soil samples;
3) Treatment of samples;
4) XRF analysis;
5) Statistical treatment of
data.
Another part of this project will compare the results obtained by the two available portable instruments, in terms of accuracy and sensitivity, with a well-developed and optimised stationary one. This state-of-the-art and automated stationary XRF instrument is the recently developed Epsilon 5 XRF spectrometer (of PANalytical) having a three-dimensional polarizing geometry (15 secondary targets). The Gd-anode X-ray tube can be operated at the voltage of 25-100 kV and a current of 0.5-24 mA (maximum power 600 W). The X-ray characteristic radiation is detected by a high-resolution PAN-32 Ge detector with good sensitivity for high-energy X-rays, i.e. especially suitable for heavier elements like cadmium, mercury and rare earth elements. Owing to the brand new constructional solutions, it is possible to perform heavy metal trace analysis down to a few ppb. For many elements the detection limit is better than in case of conventional wavelength-dispersion technique.
The fundamental research activities will also comprise the development of reliable methods for XRF quantitative analysis in field conditions; these methods will be based on multivariate calibration by partial least squares in combination with Monte Carlo simulations. In the frame of the optimisation of the quantification method, different procedures will be taken in consideration. The optimisation of adequate sample and standards preparation will be studied. For comparison purposes, quantification procedures with (fundamental parameters procedure, α-coefficient) and without ("thin film") matrix effects will be checked. The auto-quantification method available in the software of the Epsilon 5 will be applied as well. The final goal will be the quantitative characterisation of the sources and characteristics of the different heavy metal pollutants. A necessary database will then be available for later analyses.
Expected benefits of the project will include:
1) Development and optimization of sampling methodologies for "in situ" XRF measurements;
2) Development and validation of quantitative and semi-quantitative procedures to be applied for "in situ" XRF analysis;
3) Development of complete operating procedures for selected "in situ" applications, including relevant quality assurance;
4) Improved accuracy of chemometrics methods for the XRF analysis.
Finally, the results will be expressed as recommendations to the authorities for policy measures, concerning the prevention of possible contamination effects and to achieve environmental protection soil samples collected in Argentina.
Period
2006 - 2007
"Simultaneous chemical and structural analysis of micro particles using µ-Raman Spectrometry interfaced with EPMA"
The
aim of the project is to apply micro-Raman Spectrometry / SERS in
combination and on-line with EPMA/EDX to investigate simultaneously the
elemental composition together with chemical, physical and structural
information of particles, of environmental and technological origins.
Raman
spectrometry and its Surface Enhanced Raman Spectrometry (SERS) version have
rather unexplored potentials in the field of individual aerosol particle
analysis. Its combination with EPMA/EDX (simultaneous/in conjunction) with
regards to environmental particles is certainly a vast open field. Combined
structural and chemical analysis: Coupling SEM/EPMA with micro Raman
spectroscopy could reveal detail and morphology information that are not
apparent when using optical microscopy and provide a means of visualizing
samples with an excellent spatial resolution and large depth of field.
Combining it with EDX yields micrometer scale elemental analysis, also for low-Z
elements if a thin-window detector is used.
The fundamental goals of this project are as follows:
1.
The successful application of
micro-Raman/SERS to the analysis of individual particles, including aerosols,
and a comparison of the usefulness of the results obtained with those measured
by EPMA/SEM and EDX.
2.
Installation and successful implementation of an interface between the InVIA
Raman spectrometer and the JEOL EPMA/SEM/EDX.
3. Analyses of various samples, compounds, materials and standards to explore the capabilities of the combined technique and application of combined measurements to environmental samples.
Applications: The applications will of course depend on the success and the performances of the SERS and micro-Raman/EPMA methodology that will be developed. Certainly, two application fields will be pursued:
- Atmospheric aerosol particles. A first focus will be on aerosols pertaining to human health problems. It is known now that particulate matter with a diameter below 2.5 µm (PM2.5) is now by far the major concern in environmental health. Soot and related particles are most suspect in this context. The SERS and combined micro-Raman/EPMA will be mostly directed to carbonaceous particles, their chemical, structural and surface composition, and possibly the classes of organic compounds adsorbed on them. Samples taken indoors (homes, schools, workplaces) and outdoors will be analysed and together with the COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) data of the exposed persons and children epidemiological correlations will be made. Secondly, and in line with our earlier work, we will examine indoor aerosol particles from museums, showcases, cathedrals, where works of art are exposed.
- Nanocatalyst particles. In collaboration with the research group “Adsorption and Catalysis (UA - E. Vansant and P. Cool)” coupled EPMA and micro-Raman will be used for the characterization of heterogeneous single and mixed transition metal oxide nanocatalyst particles. Recently, in this group FT-Raman has been successfully applied for the characterization of different catalyst active surfaces (e.g. titania and vanadia-silica). The catalytic activities, selectivities and stabilities of the catalysts are correlated to the surface structures and crystalline phases of the metal oxide active sites present. Therefore, Raman brings an important contribution to the elucidation of the catalyst performances. The coupling between dispersive micro-Raman and EPMA, as proposed in this project, will allow simultaneous characterization of the different metal oxide active sites and their quantitative elemental analysis. This will overcome some of the disadvantages of FT-Raman such as excessive fluorescence, lower sensitivity and longer acquisition times.
Period
2005 - 2008
"Radioecological risk assessment of an abandoned uranium mine based on microchemical analysis after recultivation" (Bilateral Flemish-Hungarian research project)
For
more than ten years, a fruitful scientific co-operation has been realized
between the Flemish (University of Antwerp, UA) and two Hungarian (KFKI Atomic
Energy Research Institute, AEKI and University of Debrecen, DE) research groups
in the field of environmental analytical chemistry. In the last three years, the
three research groups studied the environmental problems emerging after the
serious cyanide and heavy metal pollution of River Tisza that resulted in
numerous scientific papers.
In
the frame of this cooperation, the research group of Prof. Van Grieken
(University of Antwerp, UA) and the Hungarian partners: Dr. Szabina Török
(Health and Environmental Physics Department from KFKI Atomic Energy Research
Institute in Budapest, Hungary), Dr. Imre Szaloki (Institute of Experimental
Physics, of University of Debrecen, Hungary) and Prof. Gyula Záray
(Chemical Technology and Environmental Chemistry of Eötvös Loránd University,
Hungary) execute a next research project on Radioecological risk assessment
of an abandoned uranium mine based on microchemical analysis after recultivation.
The
project is supported by the Flemish
administration for innovation and science (AWI) and the Hungarian
government.
Topic:
Mining
and mineral processing operations produce the largest amounts of waste in all
industrial processes; they are deposited in waste dumps and tailings. Especially
in Central and Eastern Europe, uranium mining activities caused considerable
environmental damage, which was not only due to the remaining radioactivity of
the waste ore, but also to chemical pollution involving heavy metals and salts.
From an ecological point of view, three major ecosystems
(natural/semi-natural, agricultural and urban) can be affected in the
terrestrial environmental transfer of radionuclides leading to exposures of man.
For this reason a complex ecological approach is needed to assess the real risk
that remains after remediation of uranium mines.
Aim:
The
aim of this project is the study of the distribution and chemical form of
uranium and its decay products in the tailings sludge caused by the Hungarian
uranium ore deposit.
The
Mecsek mountain area in Southern Hungary, in the vicinity of the city of Pécs,
is the only district in Hungary where uranium mining activity has been
developed. It is located in the south of the country at the foot of the Mecsek
Mountains at the Western border of the picturesque city of Pécs. Before 1989,
production was 500 - 550 tones of uranium per year from ores at grades of 0.1 %.
The production declined to 413 tones in 1994, and completely stopped in 1997.
Approximately 46 million tons of rock has been mined.
Mining
and processing of the uranium ore have resulted in huge amounts of wastes.
Tailings ponds, former heap leaching areas, and waste rock piles are located
close to drinking water catchment’s areas. The remains of the mining and
milling activities are deposited in three waste rock piles. The average uranium
content of the wastes ranges between 40 and 70 g/t. Leachate from the piles is
collected only partly, and part of it enters the soil beneath the piles. Uranium
concentrations in the leachate can be as high as 30 mg/l. Monitoring wells show
elevated U concentrations of 0.06 - 10 mg/l in the shallow groundwater aquifer.
Although
the Hungarian Government has started various actions in order to decrease and
eliminate the damages caused mostly by the waste ore tailings and mill tailings,
including continuous radiological monitoring, very limited information is
available on the distribution and chemical form of uranium and its decay
products in the tailings sludge.
Tailings
sludge, soil, surface water and plant samples will be collected in the territory
of the tailings pond of the abandoned Mecsek uranium mine. The sampling will
take place with the assistance of Mecsekérc Ltd., the company that is working
on the recultivation of the area.
Analytical
methods involved:
1.
Electron-probe microanalysis (EPMA) for studying the morphology, size
distribution and major elemental composition of particulate samples.
2.
Microbeam X-ray fluorescence (µ-XRF) for analysis of uranium and its decay
products at trace amounts in the particles.
3.
Tomography method based on µ-XRF for studying the two-dimensional
micro-distribution of uranium and other heavy metals in environmental samples of
a few millimeters. It will include software development for sample movement and
X-ray detection, as well as a calculation model for reconstructing the elemental
distribution from the measured intensity data.
4. High-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), for bulk analysis of the tailings material, surface water and plants, in order to study the isotopic composition of uranium in the samples.
Period
2005 - 2007
"Investigation of the possibilities of a new X-ray fluorescence instrument equipped with high-energetic polarized excitation for applications on precious metals"
Panalytical (Almelo, The Netherlands) recently developed a
High-Energetic Polarized Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (HE-P-EDXRF)
instrument called "Epsilon
5". It has a 600 W X-ray tube equipped with a Gd-anode and it applies a
3-dimensional Cartesian geometry using secondary targets. For detection a
Ge-detector is used. Due to this set-up X-rays are polarized and hence
background is reduced.
Because
of the higher energy, some heavy metals can be identified using the K-lines,
which simplifies the spectrum. There are various secondary targets present;
overlap can partly be avoided by choosing a suitable target for each element.
Due to the use of polarized X-rays (and hence a lower background) and the choice
of an optimal secondary target for each element, better detection limits are
possible.
(For
more information on Epsilon 5: http://www.panalytical.com/index.cfm?pid=259)
Aim:
Umicore Precious Metals Refining (UPMR) in Hoboken takes in
different sorts of material for the production of precious metals. The different
resources need to be analysed very accurately. During the production process,
control analyses are also necessary. Not all the resources demand the same
pre-concentration process, hence different matrices occur. Every type of
resource has its own typical matrix and concentration range. For each resource a
typical analysis process is used. The purpose of the project is to investigate
the possibilities of the use of high-energetic polarized X-Ray Fluorescence
(using Epsilon 5, Panalytical, Almelo, The Netherlands) for these analyses. The
intention is to replace the present analytical method in order to get a shorter
time of analysis or a reduction of the preparation time. The possibilities of
Epsilon 5 should be investigated for each of the different analysis processes.
Next to analyses concerning industrial processes, analyses on waste products are
also required. This process requires a different approach than the former.
(For more information on UPMR: http://www.preciousmetals.umicore.com/home/)
Goals:
1.
Setting up different applications for the various types of samples
2. Determining the best conditions for each element in each
application, in order to get the best detection limits
3. Comparing the performance of Epsilon 5 with the present
WDXRF applications
4. Improving the required analysis and preparation time
5. Reducing the number of analytical techniques, where possible
Period
2005 - 2007
"Preventive conservation in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York"
The project aims at assessing the gaseous and particulate air pollutants within (indoor) and around (outdoor) the very important Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. It has been noted that some deposits on glass artefacts in the museum contain relatively high amounts of nitrate. One first objective is to find the origin of this contamination. Passive diffusion tubes will be employed for gas contaminant analysis, and both micro- and bulk analysis will be invoked to study the atmospheric particulate matter. It is expected that detailed mapping of, and studying the anthropogenic and natural atmospheric constituents within the museum, and proposing remedies to reduce the contamination, will eventually help in the conservation of the precious artworks in the museum. The contact person in the Metropolitan Museum is Dr. Marco Leona, Head of the Science Group.
Period
2005 - 2006
"Chemical and structural characterisation of the individual welding aerosol particles using the combination of EPMA and micro-Raman techniques"
Arc welding is widely used in many industries.
Processes of arc welding and arc metal deposition are powerful sources of
aerosol pollution of the ambient air. All over the world, tens of millions tons
of welding materials are consumed every year, and 1% to 1.5% of them form
harmful emissions in the work zone. Welding aerosols are characterised by a high
content of toxic substances.
To
optimise the effective trapping of welding particles, their chemical composition
and morphology need to be determined. The most suitable are micro-analytical
techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron-probe
microanalysis (EPMA). These are powerful tools for the study of individual
particles, because the combination of electron microscopic imaging with EDXRS
detection allows characterizing large numbers of individual particles in a fast,
automated way and can give detailed information about their elemental
composition, size distribution and morphology.
Special
attention will be paid to the micro-analysis of individual particles by EPMA
technique in combination with the very promising micro Raman spectroscopy (MRS).
MRS has rather unexplored potentials in the single particle analysis field,
particularly if it can be coupled with EPMA. Analysis by MRS can be provided at
individual particle level in the form of optical spectra. During the analysis a
monochromatic laser beam is focused on a particle through a microscope, allowing
investigations with micrometer spatial resolution. It gives information about
molecular vibrations allowing the detection of the presence of particular phases
or molecular groups within the sample. Particularly, changes in the spectrum
characteristics with variations of temperature, composition and pressure can be
used for structural analysis.
The
application of MRS in conjunction with the EPMA/EDX creates the possibility to
further characterize the welding aerosol particles as far as their molecular
composition is concerned.
Expectable benefits of this
project include:
*
Recommendations for the development of efficient ways for the air protection
from the harmful impact of welding aerosols.
*
A more detailed, systematic database of properties of welding aerosol particles
classified by the welding metals, compounds and conditions.
*
Improved techniques of microanalysis providing information on the structure,
chemical and phase composition of aerosol particles.
*
Methods and devices developed in the frame of the project may be helpful for
investigations of various man-caused and natural aerosol pollutants.
The project is supported by the Scientific Board of the University of Antwerp in the frame of a Special Scientific Foundation (BOF). The implementation of the project will be performed in close cooperation with the Physico-Chemical Institute for the Environment and Human Protection from Odessa, Ukraine and I.I. Mechnikov National University of Odessa, Ukraine. For the optimisation of micro-Raman measurements, a cooperation with the Renishaw Group, especially with the Raman Spectroscopy Department (Mr. M. Belleil and A. Brooker; Renishaw plc, New Mills, Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom) has been established.
Period
2005 - 2006
"Analysis of toxic vapors to which seamen are exposed during the loading and unloading operations on board of tanker ships"
On board of chemical- and gas tankers a large variety of products is transported, which represents potential sources of toxic vapors during loading, transportation and unloading procedures. Additionally, the tankers are also cleaned after every cruise with large quantities of toxic solvents.
Recent data concerning the exposure of the crew
to harmful products are not available. However, it is possible to find in
literature registers about the possible causal relation between the elevated
risk of cancer development and the presence of high concentrations of toxic
vapors in the deck.
In order to minimize the exposure of deck crew to harmful chemicals, a number of safety policies imposed by the shipping companies, like the use of “high velocity valves” or “vapor return”, should be applied. In this study, the quality of the air at different locations on board of a ship tanker will be evaluated. Additionally, the crew’s short-term exposure during the execution of specific activities, such as cleaning procedures, is to be determined.
Period
2005 - 2006
"Proper heating of historic wooden churches - characterisation of air flows, particulate deposition and strains in the wood" (Bilateral Flemish-Polish research project)
The research groups of Prof. Van Grieken, Prof. Roman Kozlowski (Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences, in Cracow, Poland) and Dr. L Samek (University
of Mining and Metallurgy, Cracow, Poland) and their co-workers execute a project on proper heating of wooden churches in the mountains of Poland, and on the indoor air pollution generated by different heating systems and its damage to works of art. The project is supported by the
Flemish administration for innovation and science (AWI) and the Polish government.
Central Europe has a long and rich religious (Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, Jewish and Islamic) cultural heritage in wood. The preserved historic structures are a unique legacy of art and architecture. Around 2000 wooden religious buildings are preserved in Poland alone. They are of considerable spiritual and social significance, providing insights into past cultures and activities, events and people. Almost all contain valuable, often medieval, paintings covering the wooden walls of the interiors, as well as liturgical and decorative objects.
The wooden architectural heritage is decaying for many reasons; one of the most important is the adverse effect of the artificial climate produced by heating their interiors in winter to satisfy modern demands for comfort. Differing heating systems and regimes are used, but they are mainly planned for the comfort of the congregation without understanding of ancient artistic techniques and requirements for conservation.
The heating of churches effectively contributes to decay of the paintings on wood and the decorative objects, since it leads to much lower relative humidity (RH) levels than the ideal in theory, and than the RH to which the interiors were exposed in the past. On the whole, the adverse effects of heating on the structure and the contents of the churches are known; however, there have not been so far any systematic and scientific studies of the environmental conditions prevailing in the wooden historic churches during heating. In this way there is no sufficient knowledge to take the correct action to improve the environmental conditions, produce guidelines and recommendations for conservation specialists and authorities, and provide information for the congregations using the historic churches.
The aim of the proposed project is to obtain adequate knowledge of the conditions and response of the interior of the wooden churches to these adverse impacts with the ultimate objective of improving the environmental conditions for the structure, the paintings and the works of art.
Reference object of the project – St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Szalowa, Poland.
Szalowa is a small village (200 inhabitants) located around 150 km southeast of Cracow at the fringe of the West Carpathians. The present wooden church was built between 1736 and 1756, with the interior decoration completed around 1782. One of the most valuable wooden churches in Poland, famous nation-wide because of the unique, very rich wooden decorations and furnishings preserved in the interior which imitate in wood the monumental religious art of late Baroque and Rococo.
General approach
The main focus of the research work will be monitoring the microclimatic situation, air flows/leakages, particulate transport and deposition, and wood response in the church:
· unheated,
· heated with the present system of provisory electric heaters,
· heated with the localised bench heating system.
· In this way the Polish-Flemish project will be linked to the present EU Friendly Heating Project and will contribute to testing the novel system by applying it in a very different (wooden) cultural property.
Investigation strategy
· Monitoring the internal airflows and air leakage in the churches under study both with and without the operating heating systems.
· Determining transport and deposition of particulate matter both from indoor and outdoor sources that are responsible for soiling and damage of the wall paintings and objects.
· Assessment impact of different heating arrangements on paintings on wood and polychrome wooden works of art; monitoring the microclimate and the response of wood.
Period
2004 - 2006
"Atmospheric nitrogen input into the North Sea: Inorganic and organic nutrient fluxes"
The increasing input of
nutrients, in particular the ones containing nitrogen, causes a proliferation of
harmful algal blooms and other eutrophication phenomena affecting fisheries and
tourism. The contribution of atmospheric input to coastal eutrophication
triggers increasing interest but is not well characterized yet. Specifically,
the description of atmospheric fluxes in terms of inorganic and organic nitrogen
and their distribution between the gaseous and particulate phases has not been
studied systematically, apart from few studies concerning the Baltic Sea and the
seas around Japan. This project aims at the first comprehensive identification
and quantification of the individual inorganic and organic compounds that
contribute to the nitrogen loading of the air above the Southern North Sea.
Specifically, inorganic
analysis will be complemented with new methodologies to be elaborated for the
characterization of the organic components to the nitrogen nutrient fluxes. This
combination of frontier methods will allow a yet unseen degree of speciation to
be achieved. In contrast to the inorganic analysis the characterization of
organic nutrients is practically a blank field. Extensive chemical
pre-separation in combination with powerful chromatographic methods and highly
specific detection (for instance mass spectrometry) will be used to achieve the
first inventory of the organic nitrogen nutrients in the gas phase and aerosol.
The complementary use of inorganic and organic analysis is believed to allow a
major step to be made in the understanding of the atmospheric input to the
marine ecosystem, for instance the correlation of alkyl nitrates with the
volatile hydrocarbons and NOx. Using this information, attention will
be focused on the comparison of summer and winter data with selected air mass
trajectories that allow the temporal variation on the marine ecosystem to be
assessed in relation to the natural processes.
The results will provide direct
input for the reference framework on the quality of the North Sea and the
mathematical modeling that will be developed to preserve the health and the
survival of that marine ecosystem.
Period
2003 - 2006
"Properties of welding aerosol particles and optimization of their trapping"
This research is supported by
the NATO Science Programme, through a
Collaborative Linkage Grant in the framework of the Cooperative Science and
Technology Sub-Programme. Other institutes involved in this project are: the
Physical-Chemical Institute for the Environment and Human Protection of the
Ukrainian Academy of Science (Odessa, Ukraine), Odessa State Academy of
Refrigeration and Odessa National University.
In the processes of arc
welding, a high concentration of toxic aerosols appears which pollutes the
environment and damages people health. The problem of cleaning the air from
harmful products of the arc welding is thus actual and imperative.
Fibrous filters that are
usually used for such purposes are not always applicable; besides, in conditions
of high concentration of solid particles, the life time of the common filters is
too low. The latter can be substantially extended if, before filtering, the air
is preliminary processed by other methods (magnetic separation, electric
filtering, etc.). The efficiency of these cleaning methods directly depends on
the properties of aerosol particles, which can be very different for different
welding technologies. In the proposed project, it is planned to investigate the
properties of such aerosol particles in typical conditions of ventilation
systems before their entrance into filtering devices.
It will also be required to study the size and shape distribution of particles in connection to their electro-physical, magnetic and mechanical properties as well as their morphology and structure parameters. All these characteristics will be related to peculiarities of specific welding materials and conditions. On the base of the researches, recommendations will be elaborated concerning the development of new methods for the air purification and the trapping of the welding aerosol particles.
The expectable profits of this
project include:
- A systematic database of properties of welding aerosol particles classified
by the welding metals, compounds and conditions.
- Recommendations for the development of efficient methods for the air
purification from welding aerosols.
- Methods and devices developed in the frame of the project may be helpful
for investigations of various man-caused and natural aerosol pollutants
(factory smoke, automobile exhaust, dust of the natural and industrial origin).
Period
2003 - 2006
"Regional measurements using passive samplers in Mortsel"
The Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) has commissioned a study on the effects of a major infrastructural change of an important traffic artery in Mortsel on the regional air quality. Traffic on the Antwerpsestraat will be cut to one lane each way and a tramline will be extended in-between the lanes. It is expected that these infrastructural works will have a significant impact on the traffic density, which should result in a measurable and important effect on the air quality.
NO2 and BTEX (i.e. benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, xylene) will be sampled with passive samplers before and after the road works.
Two sampling campaigns will be conducted, which will both last for one month:
- Before commencement of the works, i.e. June 2003.
- After completion of the works, i.e. June 2005.
In addition several indoor measurements will also be performed.Period
2003 - 2005
"Atmospheric NO2 measurements using passive diffusion tubes"
New limit values for atmospheric NO2 will be imposed in 2010 by the European directive 1999/30/E6. The present measurements of VMM using automated monitoring indicate that in some cities and high traffic zones in Flanders, there might still be NO2 levels in excess of the future yearly average values. This study aims at evaluating and understanding better the NO2 situation in Flanders, using passive diffusion samples, at 19 sites. After adsorption of NO2 to a suitable substrate in the diffusion tubes, the detection will be via ion chromatographic analysis.
Period
2003 - 2005
"ITECOM" (Advanced study course: 'Innovative technologies & materials for the conservation of monuments')
This project is funded in the context of the EC’s 5th Framework Programme (Energy, environment and sustainable development; City of tomorrow and cultural heritage) and is coordinated by the National Technical University of Athens.
Conservation of cultural heritage is a major concern for decision-makers and researchers, but also for the broader European Community. Numerous research projects, both national and international (European) have been conducted, during the last ten years, which resulted in new insights on materials and methodologies. It is therefore necessary to spread this valuable knowledge and to inform and lecture the researchers involved in a profound and reliable way about the recent developments in the field.
The scope of the program is to promote education on the science and engineering of conservation interventions on historic monuments and complexes that undergo severe environmental loads. The basic target is thus to educate 40 postgraduate students of different backgrounds on the recent advances on the conservation and restoration of monuments.
Our contribution to this program consists mainly of the following tasks:
- Participation in the discussion on the implementation of the course.
- Lecture on ‘Assessment of damage caused by air pollutants’.
- Participation in the final conference on ‘How to teach the conservation of monuments’.
- Participation in the direction of the project activities, ensuring that deliverables and milestones are met
in terms of the organisation, technical content and output.
Period
2003 - 2004
"Study of the influence of fine particles in indoor and outdoor air on chronic obstructive respiratory diseases in the Antwerp region on the basis of an improved chemical analytical methodology"
This project is a logical continuation of the research line initiated by the University of Antwerp in view of the study of the effects of environmental pollutants and aerosols on human health. The project further elaborates on the theme ‘environment and health’, now concentrating on respiratory diseases, and its results may be relevant for application at the regional, federal and international levels.
Members of both the department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine and the department of Respiratory Medicine will carry out the medical part of the project.
Prevalence rates of chronic obstructive respiratory diseases (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma) seem to be increasing and have important health and economic effects. The aim of this project is to evaluate the influence of air pollution on the occurrence of this disease. The following objectives have been formulated:
- The identification and follow-up of health parameters of airways (respiratory symptoms, lung function, bronchial hyperreactiveity) and allergy in Antwerp and a number of municipalities of the province.
- Determination of individual exposure (‘exposure assessment’).
- Evaluation of the association between the composition of the ambient air (particulate fractions) and the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, asthma and allergy in adults and children in Antwerp and a number of municipalities of the province.
In order to determine the relation between these respiratory symptoms and the composition of particulate matter, a full chemical characterisation of the fine and ultra fine fractions is needed. These fractions consist, apart from inorganic components, mainly of soot and organic compounds. Organic and inorganic constituents will be characterised (both qualitatively and (semi-) quantitatively) using state-of-the-art instrumental techniques.Period
2002 - 2007
"Multi-Assess" (Model for multi-pollutant impact and assessment of threshold levels for cultural heritage)
The costs for deterioration and soiling of different materials due to air pollution are huge and the damage to culture targets endangers seriously the rich European cultural heritage. Interests have been focused for a long time on the effects of S pollutants and especially SO2, which was identified as the most important factor for deterioration of several materials. Existing dose-response functions reflect in principle a pollution situation dominated by SO2-emissions. The decreasing SO2-levels in most parts of Europe and the increasing car traffic causing elevated levels of N compounds, O3 and particulates has created a new multi-pollutant situation. The development of dose-response relations, which quantify the multi-pollutant effects in combination with climatic parameters on the deterioration and soiling of different materials, constitutes a necessary condition for prediction of damage and for establishment of threshold levels. The results should be fed into air quality policy and would be an efficient tool for authorities, organisations and individuals responsible for the care of cultural heritage in the efforts to preserve objects of cultural heritage and to reduce the cost for maintenance.
The main objectives and expected results are:
* To develop multi-pollutant deterioration and soiling models of wet and dry deposition of gases and particulates on materials used in objects of the European cultural heritage and to obtain dose-response functions quantifying the effects as function of pollution and meteorological parameters.
* To use the dose-reponse functions for assessment of pollution threshold levels and to recommend levels to be implemented in the future development of EU policy on air quality in order to minimise the pollution effects on historic and cultural objects.
* To demonstrate the usefulness of the approach by mapping areas exceeding threshold levels in Europe.
* To adapt and validate passive samplers for measuring atmospheric concentrations of nitric acid and particles.
* To propose a kit for rapid low cost assessment of the deterioration risk to objects of cultural heritage, consisting of a package of selected material specimens and passive samplers for pollutants.
As sub-contractor of the project, we expose selected material specimens (ICP-Materials: carbon steel, zinc, copper, bronze, Portland limestone, painted steel and glass) and passive samplers for HNO3 and particulates (Multi-Assess-project) at our ICP Materials test site in Borgerhout (Antwerp). Simultaneously measurements of environmental parameters are performed (climatic parameters, gaseous pollutants, particles and precipitation). The data from the exposure of the material specimens will be the basis for the development of the dose-response functions for corrosion. Both ICP Materials and Multi-Assess are co-ordinated by the Swedish Corrosion Institute (Project Co-ordinator: Mr. Vladimir Kucera).
More information can be found on: http://www.corr-institute.se/MULTI-ASSESS/
Partners
This project is in cooperation with other European participants (Sweden, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Greece, UK, Czech Republic, Norway, Poland, Latvia, France and Estonia).
Period
2002 - 2005
"Friendly Heating" (Effects on air quality of new heating systems
in churches)
Air Flow and Leakage studied by Tracers.
More
information can be found on: http://www.isac.cnr.it/friendly-heating/
The
main aim of our part of the project is to analyse the air movements and leakage
from the controlled area and to determine the influence of the old and the new
heating systems on the works of art inside of the church (Italian Alps, Rocca
Pietore). To perform these investigations, several methods should be applied.
Our
study tasks for the old and new heating system are the following:
Period
2002 - 2005
"Development of electron micro probe techniques for speciation and depth profiling of micro-particles and application to the Asian Dust phenomenon"
This project was granted by the Flemish Scientific Research Fund (FWO) within the framework of the new Co-operation agreement between the Korea Science and Engineering Foundation and FWO Flanders.
It aims at continuing and intensifying the collaboration between the research group of the applicant and Korean scientists, especially Prof. Chul-Un Ro and his co-workers at the Department of Chemistry of Hallym University in ChunCheon, Korea.
The topic of the co-operation is situated in the field of environmental microanalysis, and aims at improving Electron Probe Micro Analysis (EPMA) in two different ways and at applying this to an environmental problem, which is highly relevant in Eastern Asia, namely so-called Asian Dust.
The content of the project can be summarised in three objectives:
- Further optimisation of the measuring conditions, quantification procedures and data-evaluation techniques of
‘ultra-thin window’ EPMA for automated quantitative analysis of a large number of particles, i.e. the determination
of light elements and the speciation analysis of microscopic particles in environmental samples.
- Optimisation and evaluation of the experimental conditions in ‘beam variation’ EPMA. In order to fully understand
the accuracy and limitation of the technique, more controlled sample systems need to be investigated, e.g. carbon
coated particles and also several different types of heterogeneous particles.
- Application of these new techniques to real atmospheric aerosol particles, especially from the Asian Dust
phenomenon. The determination of low-Z elements in individual particles, using ultra-thin window EPMA, can
throw some new light on atmospheric particles, which contain especially carbon, nitrogen and oxygen and their
significance and origin. Furthermore, analysis of the heterogeneity of individual particles will possibly provide direct
and more detailed information on surface chemistry of atmospheric aerosols and on the modification of Asian Dust
during its long-range transport.
Period
2002 - 2004
"EXPER/PF" (Exposure of communities living in the centre of the Euro region to polluting atmospheric particles: the case of fine particulate matter)
A project in the framework of the INTERREG III program France/Walloon provinces/Flanders, French-Flemish subprogram. More information can be found here.
The aim of this project is the development of a strategy or tool that allows a better evaluation of transboundary air quality in the Euro region (defined here as Nord – Pas de Calais for France and Flanders for Belgium). Most emphasis will be on atmospheric particulate matter, especially the smallest size fractions (PM2.5).
The following tasks are included in this project:
- Harmonise and optimise/expand interregional monitoring networks for fine particles, i.e. PM2.5 and PM10.
- Compiling a joint database (e.g. methodological data, physical-chemical parameters, heavy metals,
meteorological data, optical in-situ image and measurements).
- Starting up a new PM2.5 sampling station and comparison of measurement protocols.
- Use of teledetection as an extension to measurement networks.
- Setting up a GIS.
- Conducting a measurement campaign in the Rijsel area to study transboundary transport of fine particles.
- Study the behaviour of physical-chemical characteristics of aerosols during transport and the influence
of aerosols on tropospheric chemical reactions.
- Transboundary distribution of information on air quality for the general public
(e.g. world wide web, scientific and popularized publications, reports, information sessions, colloquies).
Period
2002 - 2004
"PAMCHAR" (Chemical and biological characterisation of ambient air coarse, fine and ultrafine particles for human health risk assessment in Europe)
The PAMCHAR project takes a systematic approach to expanding the present knowledge about the physicochemical and biological characteristics of three significant size fractions of ambient air inhalable particles (PM10). Contrasting particulate pollution situations in different geographical and seasonal conditions in Europe are investigated with advanced particulate sampling and analytical methods, and important biological end-points are investigated in previously validated in-vitro and in-vivo test systems. Particulate sampling campaigns are conducted in Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Duisburg, Helsinki and Prague using both high and low-volume samplers. The present systematic approach aims at identifying causative physico-chemical characteristics and chemical constituents of ambient air PM10 for cytotoxic, proinflammatory and genotoxic responses relevant to human cardiorespiratory health.
Specific objectives are:
* Characterisation of variations in soluble and insoluble inorganic and organic compositions of the ambient air coarse (PM10-2.5), fine (PM2.5-0.1) and ultrafine (PM0.1) particulate fractions in contrasting air pollution situations in Europe.
* Systematic analysis of the associations of the above physicochemical characteristics of ambient air PM10 subfractions with the cytotoxic, proinflammatory and genotoxic effects on human and murine respiratory cells in vitro.
* Testing of the significant in-vitro cytotoxic and proinflammatory associations in animal studies and in comparisons with human epidemiological data.
The project contractors are from Finland, The Netherlands and Germany. The collaborators (sub-contractors) are from Greece, Spain, Czech Republic, Germany, Belgium, Finland and The Netherlands. As sub-contractor, we perform XRF-analysis on samples from the project. The project is co-ordinated by the National Public Health Institute (KTL) in Finland (Co-ordinator: Dr. Raimo O. Salonen).
More information can be found on: http://www.pamchar.org
Period
2002 - 2004
"VIDRIO" (Determination of conditions to prevent weathering due to condensation, particle deposition and micro-organism growth on ancient stained glass windows with protective glazing)
Project in the framework of the EC-program “City of Tomorrow and Cultural Heritage – Improved damage assessment on Cultural Heritage”. This project involves the analysis of gaseous and particulate air pollution (by diffusion tubes, XRF, EPMA) inside churches with historic stained glass windows with and without protective glazing. The aim of this project is to propose a general directive on the most appropriate operative methodology for preserving historic stained glass in respect to chemical, microclimate and micro-biological deterioration. The three major aims of the project will be achieved with a global approach, in 2 important churches: the Sainte Chapelle (Paris) and the Cathedral of Cologne.
Stained glass window in the Cathedral of Cologne.
Stained glass window in Sainte Chapelle (Paris).
More information can be found on: http://www.itre.com/vidrio/index.shtml
Partners
This project is a collaboration with the Consiglio
Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze dell' Atmosfera e del Clima,
Padova, Italy (contact person: Dr. Adriana Bernardi); Fraunhofer Institut für
Silikatforschung (Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research, ISC), Bronnbach,
Germany (contact person: Dr. Hannelore Römich); Laboratoire Interuniversitaire
des Systčmes Atmosphériques, Faculté des Sciences, Université Paris XII,
France (contact person: Prof. Roger Lefčvre); Stazione Sperimentale del Vetro
(SSV), Venice, Italy (contact person: Dr. Marco Veritŕ); Laboratoire de
Recherche des Monuments Historiques (LRMH), Paris, France (contact person: Prof.
Isabelle Pallot-Frossard); Genalysis GmbH, Luckenwalde, Germany (contact person:
Dr. Sabine Rölleke) and Dombauverwaltung Köln, Germany (contact person: Ms.
Ulrike Brinkmann).
Period
"Development of electron probe X-ray micro analysis (EPMA) towards lighter elements and lower detection limits; application to environmental particles"
This research project is supported by the Flemish Scientific Research Fund (FWO).
Electron Probe Micro Analysis (EPMA) has taken an important place in micro-analytical research. The chemical analysis feature has been combined with imaging techniques. Developments in the electronics resulted in the use of energy dispersive X-ray detection (EDX) and automated measurements. Beside the more standard surface analysis of bulk samples, the analysis of individual particles has been firmly established: EPMA is now capable of simultaneously determining both the chemical composition and the morphology of microscopic volumes (diameter > 0.2 µm with automated analyses). However, conventional EPMA is limited in two respects: low-Z elements are difficult to measure with EDX under normal conditions and detection limits are relatively high (0.1%-1%) due to high spectral background. The determination of light elements with EDX is hindered by the absorption of the characteristic X-rays by the Be-window of the detector. One can avoid this problem by using so-called 'ultra-thin window' detectors: the conventional Be-window is replaced by an ultra-thin window and as such the simultaneous detection of both light and heavier elements becomes possible. Although these detectors have been commercially available for several years, nearly no research has been carried out in the field of particle analysis.
The detection of low-Z elements is a necessary development for further research of individual particles, firstly because these elements (C, N, O, S) are abundantly present in atmospheric particles and secondly because quantitative information is necessary for speciation of individual microscopic particles; indeed, many environmental particles are present in the form of nitrates, sulphates, oxides or mixtures including a carbon matrix.
The fundamental goal of this project can be summarised in two objectives:
- Optimisation of the measuring conditions, quantification procedures and data-evaluation techniques of
'ultra-thin window' EPMA for computer aided analysis of a large number of particles. More specifically,
the determination of the exact concentration of light elements and the speciation analysis of microscopic
particles in environmental samples has to be carried out.
- Optimisation of the experimental conditions in Grazing Exit (GE) -EPMA, developing an improved instrumental
configuration equipped with a wavelength dispersive X-ray detector (WDX-version) and improved control and
resolution of the inclination angle of the sample carrier.
Period
2001 - 2004
"Evaluation of policy scenario's concerning fine dust (PM2.5)"
This project is performed in cooperation with the Flemish institute for technological research (Vito) in the framework of the Policy Oriented Research Program of the Flemish Administration for Science and Innovation (AWI).
Aim of this cooperation is to identify preferential no-regret measures to reduce the impacts of fine dust, to pinpoint and try to abate uncertainties. This can serve to substantiate policy propositions (in the framework of the evaluation of limiting values for (fine) dust in 2005).
The World Health Organisation (WHO) as well as different authorities in Europe and the US acknowledge the potential risks of floating dust (particulate matter, PM) to public health. Atmospheric pollution by particles has become an important policy theme. A series of recent epidemiologic studies has clearly shown the causative interconnection between particles and health effects. A specific problem for policy makers in the context of fine dust is the fact that these pollutants are not defined unambiguously. In addition state-of-the-art scientific studies employ a multitude of hypotheses to explain health effects as a function of the nature of the particles. It has been shown that traditional indicators such as PM10 are often insufficient for health effect studies. Emphasis is shifting towards PM2.5 (and even PM0.1) and towards the measurement of the number of particles and total particulate surface area that constitute the exposure load, rather than merely measuring the total particulate mass. The chemical composition of fine dust could also be a key factor.
The main tasks of UIA consist of:
* Drawing up inventories of the present state of our knowledge about
- Sources and distribution of fine dust
- Composition of dust
- Immission characteristics of dust
* Performing additional Immission (exposure) measurements (to fill gaps in the emission database).
Period
2001 - 2003
"Environmental protection of works of art in museum display cases: chemical, microclimate and microbiological aspects" (Vitrinekasten)
Project of the University of Antwerp involving
characterisation of the different microenvironmental parameters (microclimate,
chemistry of the inner atmosphere, microbiology) to which works of art are
exposed in showcases. Gaseous air pollutants like NO2, SO2,
O3, formic acid and acetic acid are sampled using diffusion tubes and
solid phase microextraction GC-MS inside of the museum showcases, in the museum
galleries and outside of the museums, in respect to improve the storage
conditions of works of art.
Period
"Novel quantitative procedures for in-situ X-ray fluorescence analysis"
This project deals with the development of a quantitative method based on partial least squares (PLS) calibration and Monte Carlo simulations which will be used for in-filed XRF measurements such as analysis of soils and artefacts from cultural heritage.
The research is performed in the framework of an Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Co-ordinated Research Project entitled ‘In-situ Applications of X-ray Fluorescence Techniques’:
Although
a significant amount of work has been undertaken in the development of
Field-portable X-ray fluorescence (FPXRF) techniques, there is little consensus
as to which is the best approach for any particular application. The most
important aspect before FPXRF techniques can be applied successfully is
therefore the development of clear procedures for the entire FPXRF technique.
Because of the wide range of problems to which FPXRF can be applied, these
procedures must be comprehensive in relation to the applications, covering a
wide range of sample types, including rocks, soils, air particulate and liquid
samples.
Specific research objectives include:
- development and optimisation of sampling methodology for in-situ XRF measurements;
- improvements in analytical performance of FPXRF including study of mineralogical effects,
surface irregularity effects and influence of moisture content;
- development of quantitative and/or semi-quantitative procedures to be applied for in-situ
XRF analysis;
- development of complete standard operating procedures for selected in-situ applications
of XRF techniques.
Period
"Measurements of PM2.5 in Flanders"
The presented results are related to the project agreement between Vlaamse
Milieumaatschappij (VMM),
Vlaamse Instelling
voor Technologisch Onderzoek (VITO) and our research group. The project
coordinators for the contractors are respectively Dr. E. Roekens, Prof. Dr. R.
Van Grieken and Dr. P. Berghmans. The project fits into the larger frame of an
AWI-project on the policy towards PM2.5 levels in ambient air.
The aim of the project is:
-
to carry
out PM2.5 sampling campaigns at well-chosen locations in Flanders, and to analyze the samples
with different chemical characterization methods
-
to make an
evaluation of the different measurement methods for determining the particulate
concentrations and for characterizing the chemical composition of the
investigated aerosols
-
to
evaluate the experimental data in view of the geographical distribution of fine
particles, in order to provide useful data for environmental policymaking, since
uncertainties exist on the different influences on particulate concentrations
Picture of the sampling
site in Antwerpen-Borgerhout, and a map showing all the sampling locations.
The analytical methods and the analyzed chemical components are:
-
ion
chromatography (IC): ions in water-soluble particle fractions and ions in
denuder leaching fluids to determine gaseous components (e.g. sulphur dioxide)
-
high
pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC): polyaromatic hydrocarbons
-
X-ray
fluorescence (XRF): heavy metals and other elements
-
electron
microscopy (SEM/EPMA): composition and morphology of single particles
-
carbon
monitoring: organic and elemental carbon
-
dust
concentration monitoring: particulate matter fractions and (mass) distributions
The selection of sampling locations consists of:
-
Antwerpen-Petroleumkaai
(industrial influences)
-
Antwerpen-Borgerhout
(urban influences, traffic)
-
Zelzate
(industrial influences)
-
Hasselt
(suburban influences)
-
Wingene
(rural influences)
-
Mechelen
(industrial/suburban influences)
At each location, two campaigns were planned in different seasons or relevant periods. Weather information will be used for the data interpretation.
Period
"Role of oceanic production and dissolution of calcium carbonate in climate change" (Rol van CaCO3 in Global Change)
The overall
objective of this research project is to contribute to a better understanding of
the oceanic inorganic carbon cycle and its role in climate change. The specific
objectives concern the study of processes associated with the oceanic production
and dissolution of calcium carbonate in order to quantify the role of calcifying
phytoplanktonic organisms in sequestering anthropogenic CO2. Field
studies will be carried out in the area of “La Chapelle Bank” (about 47°30’
N, 7°30’ W) in the Gulf of Biscay. This site has been regularly visited since
more than one decade in the framework of Belgian or European (OMEX) research
projects, and can be considered as a “time-series” station for which a
database of fundamental parameters exists and a good knowledge of physical
processes occurring there has been obtained. In addition, frequent
coccolithophore blooms have been observed in the gulf of Biscay and measurements
of the vertical distribution and fluxes of calcium carbonate indicate a rapid
dissolution of the skeletons during settling even in the upper water column
over-saturated with respect to CaCO3. This site is thus a suitable
location for studying the oceanic inorganic carbon-cycle.
Our lab will
emphasize on the following topics:
* Collection
of calcite particles out of the marine environment.
*
Classification of individual particles using automated EMPA.
* Manual
microanalysis of selected individual particles for their major and minor element
composition.
*
Determination of surface layers on individual CaCO3 particles, using
“variable-energy” EMPA.
*
Identification of planktonic species and their fragments.
Coordinator:
Prof. Lei Chou
Laboratoire d’ Océanographie Chimique et Géochimique des Eaux
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
More
information can be found on:
Partners
This research is in cooperation with VUB and ULB.
Period
2000 - 2005
"Study of the transport and deposition fluxes of heavy metals in the Tisza river after the recent massive pollution event" (Bilaterale betrekking met Hongarije)
The
research groups of Prof. Dr. Van Grieken, Prof. Dr. W. Baeyens (VUB), Prof. Dr.
I. Szalóki (University of Debrecen) and Prof. Dr. Sz. Török (KFKI), have a
project running on the study of the pollution of the river Tisza. The project is
supported by the Flemish
administration for innovation and science (AWI) and the Hungarian
government.
Until
the mid-19th century, the landscape of the Great Hungarian Plain was
characterised by vast areas of backwaters, marshland, wet meadows and riparian
forests, associated with floodplains of the river Tisza, which is the second
largest river in Hungary. Since that time the number and extension of these
formations have decreased dramatically and the flood areas have become
restricted to narrow belts along the main channel between dykes. The oxbow areas
were created during the flood regulation operations through the second half of
19th century. During this canalisation procedure of the Tisza, most
of the river bends were shortened leading to the formation of oxbow ponds, which
can be observed in the change of characteristic morphological properties of the
landscape. These special water formations have generated a diverse wild life,
resulting in an ecological system, sensitive to any kind of a water pollution
event.
Pictures of water and soil sampling on the river oxbows of the Tisza.
A special system for drilling core samples (left) was constructed on a
boat.
The
water of the river contains a huge amount of suspended sediment particles,
depending on seasonal and weather conditions. The average increase of the sediment level is
approximately 2-5 cm/year in the oxbow areas. Therefore the chemical and
morphological properties of the sediment particles are of great importance in
the transport effect of different compounds and heavy metals along the river.
The river Tisza has a relatively fast water-current with an average flow rate of
approximately 3 m/s. This parameter varies, however, in a wide range
corresponding with the shape and depth conditions of the riverbed. Generally,
two basic types of sediment formation processes can be distinguished: (i)
deposition of allogenic particles, erosion and accumulation of inorganic
material, which tend to dominate during different periods and occur in different
intensity, (ii) deposition of particles which are occasionally transferred by
the river during a flooding period.
Picture showing the different sediment layers
in a drilled core.
A catastrophic cyanide (from February 1 to February
12 2000) and heavy metal pollution event (March 2000) occurred in the catchment
area of the Tisza. This event has highly been discussed in the media world-wide.
This pollution event can result in a significant threat to the natural water and
ecological system. The influence of the general conditions of the oxbow bottom
and water body on the complete ecological system of this area is large. Hence,
the knowledge of the present status and possible development features has become
very important. The necessity of the conservation of wildlife requires that a
thorough study, concerning the rate and dynamics of the sediment accumulation is
carried out. As our preliminary results indicate, the source of the
pre-mentioned pollution could be the heavy metal mining in the catchment area of
the Tisza and other related rivers. All
research partners will sample river sediments at different periods during the
project and these will be analyzed using different analytical techniques (ICP,
AAS, XRF, EPMA, ...).
Period
"Assessment methodology for the impacts of PM2.5 and gases on the development of asthma and allergy in young adults"
This project is performed in cooperation with the faculty of medical sciences, department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine of the University of Antwerp (UIA) in the framework of the Policy Oriented Research Program of the Flemish Administration for Science and Innovation (AWI).
In a previous research study (by our medical science collaborator) it has been shown that the incidence of asthma is twice as high in the centre of Antwerp as compared to a southern suburban area. This difference could only partly be attributed to a number of known personal and environmental factors. This project will therefore try to elucidate the impacts of specific atmospheric pollutants (in the first place PM2.5, i.e. the fraction of atmospheric particulate matter (PM) with a diameter smaller than 2.5 µm) on the respiratory health.
In short our contributions to this project can be summarized as follows:
- Determination of the chemical composition of the PM2.5.
- Determination of the correlations between indoor and outdoor PM2.5 concentrations.
- Identification of PM2.5 sources in indoor and outdoor air.
Period
"Onderzoek luchtvervuiling in Wilrijk, Hoboken, Peer en Antwerpen-stad"
“Measurement
of air pollutants in Wilrijk, Hoboken, Peer and the city center of Antwerp”.
The
objective of this study was to determine the concentrations of SO2,
NO2, NO, O3 and BTEX in the city center of Antwerp and the
southern agglomeration. The sampling of these gasses was performed by means of
radiello® diffusion tubes (Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Padova, Italy).
At
53 sites, urban backgrounds as well as ‘hotspots’, in the center of the city
and the southern agglomeration of Antwerp (Wilrijk and Hoboken) measurements
were carried out. As a background location, three additional places on the
countryside at a distance of 100 km from Antwerp were chosen (in Peer).
Shelters, containing the diffusion tubes, were fixed to street-lamps or road
signs at a height of 2.5 m above the ground.
The
main objectives of this study were
- The detection of differences between the urban background concentrations of the various gasses and the
background concentrations
in
the southern
agglomeration.
-
The detection of gaseous traffic emissions and the impact on the air quality at
a longer distance from the road.
- The comparison of the concentrations measured in Antwerp and the background location at a distance of
100 km from Antwerp.
This
project is performed in cooperation with the Flemish Environmental Agency (VMM).
Period
2000 - 2001
"Chemical characterization of aerosols in Flanders in view of the relation to health effects and possible artefacts in TEOM" (PM10 en PM2.5: Evaluatie van artefacten en bepalen van de chemische samenstelling van aerosolen)
The Flemish Environmental Organization (VMM),
which is the environmental authority for the monitoring of the air and water
quality in Flanders, asked our group to characterize the composition of
atmospheric aerosol particles in Flanders.
Tapered Element Oscillating Microbalance (TEOM) is a technique developed by Rupprecht and Patashnik Co., in which mass concentrations of particulate matter in the air (PM2.5 or PM10) are determined. However, the method is used at a standard elevated temperature (e.g. 50 °C), so evaporation of certain volatile compounds could occur. To study these artefacts, aerosol samples were taken at four locations in Flanders (Tielrode, Oostrozebeke, Zaventem and Wezel) during three campaigns (one week per location) using different sampling techniques (impaction and filtration). The samples were analysed using ion chromatography, X-ray fluorescence, conventional scanning electron microscopy and Low-Z/Cryo electron probe microanalysis in order to study possible causes of monitoring artefacts.
Picture of a VMM sampling station in Tielrode.
In the “Health” part of this project, the composition of aerosols was investigated in order to determine whether any correlation exists between one or more components of the aerosols and earlier registrated problems of the respiratory tract of people. For this part of the project, eight different sampling sites were selected: two near the centre of Antwerp (Borgerhout, Havanastraat), two in the north of the suburban area (Berendrecht, Kapellen), two in the south of the suburban area (Zwijndrecht, Wilrijk), one location in Mechelen and one background location (Bree). Sampling campaigns took place in November 2000 and February, March and May 2001. At each location, samples were taken with both a Dekati PM10-impactor and a filter-unit with PM10 head. Samples collected with the Dekati PM10-impactor were analysed by ion chromatography, those collected with the filter-unit were analysed by X-ray fluorescence.
Period
2000 - 2001
"Study of air pollution in urban and remote sites in South Africa" (Bilaterale Samenwerking met Zuid-Afrika)
South
Africa becomes particularly more and more important for the study of atmospheric
pollution. On the one hand, the electrical power plants are mostly coal-fired,
while much wood burning takes place for cooking and domestic heating. On the
other hand, huge savannah fires are lighted every year in the north of South
Africa. Aerosols from these can be traced over all of Southern Africa and have a
significant effect on the Earth’s radiation balance.
Due
to the abundant availability and the low cost, D-grate residential coal is being
widely used by the lower income urban communities in South Africa. Smoke from
residential coal combustion in the black townships was found to be contributing
as much as 30% of the particulate pollution in the industrialised areas in South
Africa.
The
objective of this study was to investigate the chemical and the physical
characteristics of the atmospheric aerosols, including soot at different
locations in South Africa, namely in more remote area in the North (in the
relation to the climate change effects) and in urban areas such as Soveto and
Bethlehem (in relation to the health effects).
VITO
and UA mainly focussed their efforts on Bethlehem, a town in Free State, where
the effect of domestic burning processes on the air quality during the cold
winter period was investigated using different analytical methods. Especially in
poor areas, people warm their houses by burning wood, rubber or anything else
they can find. During winter, the polluted, concentrated air is trapped beneath
inversion layers. The town of Bethlehem is located in a valley, which increases
the risk for the health of its inhabitants.
Prof.
Djolov and his co-workers from the Venda University in South Africa focussed
their efforts on the air in the remote areas, namely in the Soutpansberg region,
in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The single aerosol particles collected
in this area were afterwards analysed using micro-analytical techniques (EPMA)
in the University of Antwerp, Belgium.
The
target compounds and analytical methods:
§
Soot morphology study using the Field Emission Gun Scanning Electron Microscopy
(FEG-SEM).
§
Sunlight scattering determination.
§
Soot and PM determinations using the TEOM, Ambient Carbon analysis and
nephelometers.
§ Bulk chemical analysis of the aerosols using the X-ray fluorescence for determination of the heavy metals and ion
chromatography for the determination of major cations and anions.
§ Characterisation of the individual aerosol particles using the micro-analysis techniques such as thin window EPMA.
Smoke above 'Bohlokong' black township (sampling in Bethlehem, Free State, South Africa).
Sampling at CALTEX DEPO, site located between the town center and 'Bohlokong' black
township (sampling in Bethlehem, Free State, South Africa).
Sampling at weather station located out of the town center of Bethlehem.
Partners
§ Dr. P. Berghmans, Flemish Institute for Technological Research - VITO, Mol, Belgium.
§
Prof. Dr. H. Winkler, Vista University, Faculty of Science, Department of
Physics, Soveto, South Africa.
§ Prof. Dr. G. Djolov, University of Venda, Thohoyandou and University of the North, South Africa.
Period
1999 - 2002
"Deposition of heavy metals and nutrients over water surfaces due to anthropogenic processes: case of Lake Balaton, Hungary"
Lake Balaton is the largest lake in central Europe (596 km2). It has shallow water (average depth is 3 meters, maximum depth is 11 m) and hence, because of its relatively low water volume, it is very vulnerable to pollution problems; indeed, dilution of pollutants is very limited in Lake Balaton. On its northern part, it is surrounded by picturesque hills and small villages. From May to September, many Hungarian tourists, and also thousands of foreign visitors take their vacation there. The population around the Lake is several times higher in summer than in winter, resulting in serious environmental stress in summer. Fishing is a major commercial and leisure activity at Lake Balaton. Many types of fish (carp, pike-perch etc.) are caught from the Lake and are consumed in the vicinity of the Lake. Several Government Decisions were issued during the last decade to improve the water and air quality in the region. They included the cleaning of the Zala river, which empties in Lake Balaton, the building up of the whole sewage water drain system around the Lake etc. Environmental and human health concerns of atmospheric aerosol pollution in the region are three-fold:
- atmospheric deposition and accumulation of toxic metals and nutrients from
urban and industrial emissions into the Lake with possible adverse effects on
the ecology;
- air quality (inhalation);
- visibility (controlled by sulphate particles).
So far, no extended environmental campaigns, with emphasis on the atmospheric input have been carried out in the Lake region. It is suspected that the atmosphere is an important source of environmental deterioration of the Lake, relative to the pollutant supply by rivers and direct discharges. However, no scientific data are available.
As such, we like to pay attention to the following target compounds:
1.
inorganic and organic, gaseous and particulate nitrogen and phosphorus
compounds.
2. aluminium, silicon, manganese and iron which have also
biological roles.
3. seven heavy metals, which have been recognized as being
toxic : i.e. chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, cadmium, lead and especially
mercury.
On a global and regional scale, atmospheric inputs to the ocean environment are known to be an important source of nutrients like nitrogen and bioavailable trace elements, including silicon, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper and zinc, which play a key role in primary production and influence oceanic productivity. For coastal and lake waters, however, atmospheric transport and deposition of nutrients and metals are generally not considered. Yet, atmospheric deposition of nitrate and ammonium could be much more important than originally thought. Also, one has to pay attention to the organic micropollutants, on which until now little is known. With respect to heavy metals, direct deposition from the atmosphere has been recognized about fifteen years ago as a potentially major input for the North Sea. Nutrients are important since the input of all these species can result in increased biological activity, changes in species types and phytoplankton succession, occurrence of toxic algae, changes in the depletion of fauna and flora, changes in the trophic chains and oxygen depletion in the water column and the sediments. Heavy metals and organic pollutants can directly harm the ecology. These considerations are also important from an economic point of view, since e.g. the Balaton Lake is involved in the food supply.
Partners
This research project is in collaboration with the VUB (contact person: W. Baeyens), the KFKI Atomic Energy Research Institute (contact person: Sz. Török) and with the Hungarian Meteorological Service (contact person: L. Bozó).
Period
1999 - 2000
"Deposition of air particles on art objects in the "Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten" "
This study was related with the project "Assessment of Environmental Risk Related to Unsound Use of Technologies and Mass Tourism" from the European Community.
The European Community project has the following objectives:
- the
evaluation of the risk factors of air/heating conditioning systems, floor
covering and light, mass tourism and air pollution.
- suggestions about
heating/air conditioning systems which take into account the problem of how to
reduce the suspended particulate matter and the soiling of exhibits.
This project is an expansion of the European Community project with an additional museum, namely the "Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten", Antwerp.
Partner:
Dario Camuffo, Consorzio Padova Richerche, Padova, Italy.
Period:
1999 - 2000
"Quality status and terrestrial inputs for the North Sea"
The primary objective of this project is to produce the fourth chapter of the Quality Status Report for the North Sea - QSR 1999. The history of these reports goes back to the first International Conference on the Protection of the North Sea (1984). It was the aim of the organizers to attain a global vision about the environmental condition of the North Sea, more specifically focused on the anthropogenic pollution of the Region II of the OSPARCOM area. The first QSR was written in 1987 and the authors felt that there were significant gaps in scientific knowledge. Therefore, ICES and OSPARCOM were asked to found a special group (the North Sea Task Force) with the goal of getting a clear and coherently designed explanation of circulation patterns, fluxes and dispersion of contaminants, ecological features and effects of human activities on and around the North Sea. The variability of these processes gives a great uncertainty about the impact of human activities on the natural processes in the North Sea. Both the accuracy and reliability of the analytical techniques used are far from high. Hence, the awareness of the requirement of a quality system for environmental analyses was felt to be highly desirable, leading to up-to-date quality assurance guidelines, standards and accreditation systems. This research project has the aim of finding additional data, produced by the different countries, bordering the North Sea (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, France and the UK). In the 1993 Quality Status Report the influence of a series of anthropogenic activities was discussed, but the aim of this QSR is to further refine the used methods and to add some new ones in order to identify these human activities.
The fourth chapter in the QSR - 1999 is dealing with the chemistry in the
marine environment and has the following subtitles:
1. Introduction
2.
Input of chemical substances in general
3. Background/reference values in
water, sediments and biota and assessment tools
4. Heavy metals
5.
Persistent organic pollutants
6. Multiple chemical inputs
7. Oil
8.
Radionuclides
9. Nutrients and oxygen
10. Observed trends in relation to
measurements
The interest of our group goes mainly to the discussion on radionuclides, background and reference values, trends and persistent organic pollutants, while the other subchapters are produced by teams at the Free Universities of Brussels (VUB and ULB).
A second objective consists in describing the terrestrial fluxes of contaminants from the Belgian territory to the North Sea. It should be emphasized that this will be done, apart from the previously mentioned partners, in collaboration with the Flemish Environmental Authority (VMM). The task of our group is to estimate the emissions, divided over the three regions, of a number of organic pollutants, more specifically pentachlorophenol, dichlorvos, trichlorobenzenes, polychlorobiphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and to compare these emissions with those of respectively 1990 and 1995. Information will be gathered at the different environmental institutes of the regions of this country and at organizations, that represent the producers and users possible polluters.
Period
1998 - 2000
"Air-sea exchange of nutrients for the North Sea"
Objectives
The basic objective of the project is to increase the knowledge on the presence, sources, fluxes and fate in the atmosphere above the North Sea of nutrients, of a group of volatile organic contaminants, which are considered as priority pollutants but for which reliable information is limited or non-existing, and of toxic and/or biologically relevant trace metals, for which data are unreliable and information on speciation in wet and dry deposition are generally not available. The research proposal contains two main aspects: an estimation of the actual status of the marine environment with respect to the atmospheric contamination by the target compounds and a study of the dynamics of these contaminants (sources, fluxes and fate).
The target compounds are:
* inorganic and organic nitrogen and phosphorus
compounds
* nine chlorinated volatile organic compounds as well as Cr, Ni,
Cu, Zn, Cd, Hg and Pb, all defined as toxic high priority compounds at the North
Sea Conference
* two compounds out of each of the groups 'alcanes',
'alcenes', 'benzenes' and 'toluenes and xylenes', included in the additional
lists of priority compounds of the North Sea Conference
* Al, Si, Mn, Fe,
which have biological roles.
The objectives are:
1. Estimation of the actual status of the North Sea
environment with respect to these target compounds
2. Study of the dynamics of the target compounds in the marine air
Other participants
Period
1997 - 2001
"Evaluation and optimization of micro-analysis techniques for individual environmental particles"
Application of micro-analysis techniques to particulate environmental
samples, i.e. analysis of individual environmental particles, often allows to
obtain valuable information that is complementary to bulk analysis. In
principle, by single particle analysis techniques, detailed information
concerning the origin, formation, transport, reactivity and transformation
reactions of environmental particulate matter can be obtained in a more
straightforward way than by bulk techniques.
The most common techniques in
this field, as generally in all micro-analysis, are the electron-beam methods,
like scanning electron microscope analysis with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis
attachment (SEM-EDX) or electron probe X-ray micro-analysis (EPXMA), which can
advantageously be automated and offers chemical and morphological information
for particles larger than 0.2 µm. In automated EPXMA, the electron beam is
scanned over e.g. a loaded filter (on which the individual particles are, of
course, spatially separated), while the electron backscatter signal is
monitored. For the pixels where a particle (and not the filter material) is hit
by the electron beam during the scanning, the computer will memorise the
co-ordinates. As soon as the contour of a particle has been filled, the system
will stop scanning and measure the characteristic X-ray spectrum of the detected
particle, which allows quantification of typically a dozen elements (excluding
normally the low-Z elements, below Na or so). Also the average size and a shape
factor of each particle will be calculated. Hundreds of particles can be
characterised in this way in a few hours. To ensure the statistical relevance of
the data, 500 or more particles are usually analysed per sample. This results in
huge data matrices which are reduced by hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA)
and/or factor analysis (FA) and/or other multivariate analysis techniques.
Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) with EDX allows to investigate
much smaller particles, down to the nanometer range. These are used together
with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) in STEM and with the
micro-version of particle induced X-ray emission analysis (micro-PIXE). Other
less common techniques for environmental single particle analysis are laser
microprobe mass analysis, secondary ion mass spectrometry, Fourier-transform
infrared analysis, Raman microscopy, electron energy loss spectrometry.
The
characteristics of all these techniques are compared and their applicability is
investigated in various environmental samples.
Period
1997 - 2000