Environmental Chemistry: Current Research Articles
Current Articles in the field of Environmental Chemistry published online in scientific journals.
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On this page considered biochemistry journals:
Environmental Chemistry - published by
CSIRO -
... is a multidisciplinary journal addressing chemical processes of the environment.
Environmental Science & Technology - published by
The American Chemical Society -
Published twice monthly, ES&T is a unique source of information for scientific and technical professionals in a wide range of environmental disciplines
Journal of Environmental Monitoring - published by
The Royal Society of Chemistry -
... focuses on Environmental Processes and Impacts.
Environmental Chemistry Letters - published by
Springer -
... is located at the interfaces of geology, chemistry, physics and biology.
Current research articles of the mentioned
journals:
Ming-I (Brandon) Lin, William A. Groves, Andris Freivalds, Larry Lee, Eun Gyung Lee, James E. Slaven, Martin Harper
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Ming-I (Brandon) Lin, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b923986c
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Isabela Araujo Fioravante, Francisco Antonio Rodrigues Barbosa, Rodinei Augusti, Sergia Maria Starling Magalhaes
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Isabela Araujo Fioravante, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b923288e
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Zheng Li, James A. Mulholland, Lovisa C. Romanoff, Erin N. Pittman, Debra A. Trinidad, Michael D. Lewin, Andreas Sjodin
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Zheng Li, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/c000689k
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Ralf Kautenburger, Horst P. Beck
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Ralf Kautenburger, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b914861b
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Jian Cui, Jing Zhou, Hao Yang
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Jian Cui, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b922042a
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Kasper Solbu, Merete Hersson, Syvert Thorud, Elsa Lundanes, Terje Nilsen, Ole Synnes, Dag Ellingsen, Paal Molander
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Kasper Solbu, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b925053k
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
High production cost is the key issue of biodiesel industry nowadays. To decrease the cost, using low-quality lipids feedstock
is the most effective way. For low-quality lipids with high content of free fatty acids, a simple and promising route is proposed
to produce biodiesel. Instead of the typical two-step procedure, the esterification and transesterification processes are
performed continuously by simultaneously eliminating the formed water in the reaction system with CaO powder. Investigations
were carried out on the synthesis of fatty acid methyl ester and fatty acid ethyl ester. The results showed that the esterification
rate reached to 99.6% for fatty acid methyl ester and 99.4% for fatty acid ethyl ester within 3–4 h, and the transesterification
rate reached to 89.1 and 86.2%, respectively. Over 93 w% of feedstock oil could be transformed to biodiesel. Besides, hydrophobic
CaCO3 nanorods were also synthesized as value-added by-product. Based on the new route, the production process of biodiesel could
be simplified and the production cost could be reduced.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-010-0280-4
Authors
Hong Lei, Jilin University College of Chemistry 130012 Changchun China
Zichen Wang, Jilin University College of Chemistry 130012 Changchun China
Xu Zhao, Jilin University College of Chemistry 130012 Changchun China
Xuefeng Ding, Jilin University College of Chemistry 130012 Changchun China
Xue Chen, Jilin University College of Chemistry 130012 Changchun China
Hongxi Zhang, Jilin University College of Chemistry 130012 Changchun China
Chakra Chaemfa, Jonathan L. Barber, Sandra Huber, Knut Breivik, Kevin C. Jones
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Chakra Chaemfa, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b921628f
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Silvia Mosca, Giorgia Nadia Torelli, Ettore Guerriero, Giovanna Tramontana, Silvia Pomponio, Gianluca Rossetti, Mauro Rotatori
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Silvia Mosca, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b927004c
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Fish, a widely claimed healthy food for humans, could also pose problems to health due to (1) accumulation of pollutants,
especially heavy metals, (2) presence of marine toxins such as tetrodotoxin, ciguatoxin or okadaic acid and (3) metabolic
production of large amount of uric acid which may crystallize in kidney or in articulations. As tuna fish represents a large
part of the traditional food in some countries, the possible impact of its consumption on public health was investigated,
with special attention to biochemical and histological alterations related to the genital function. For that purpose, white
or red muscle from tuna fish was added for 60 days to the diet of male rats, and attention was paid to biochemical and histological
alterations related to the genital function. Feeding rats with white muscle, and much more markedly with red muscle known
to be more metabolically active, resulted in (1) an elevated uric acid level in blood, (2) an increase in lead level in testis,
(3) an atrophy of the genital tract, including testes, epididymis, prostate and seminal vesicles, (4) a lowering of plasma
testosterone level, (5) a decrease in spermatozoids number and motility, (6) an oxidative stress in testes including an increase
in lipids peroxidation level and enhanced superoxide-dismutase, catalase and glutathione-peroxidase activities. We conclude
that consumption of tuna fish meat, especially the dark one, should be reduced.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-010-0277-z
Authors
Nesrine Gdoura, Faculty of Sciences Department of Biology, Laboratory of Animal Ecophysiology BP 3000 3018 Sfax Tunisia
Abdelwaheb Abdelmouleh, INSTM Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Biodiversity Sfax Tunisia
Khansa Chaabouni, CHU Habib Bourguiba Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics Sfax Tunisia
Fatma Makni Ayadi, CHU Habib Bourguiba Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics Sfax Tunisia
Fadhel Guermazi, CHU Habib Bourguiba Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics Sfax Tunisia
Jean-Claude Murat, Faculty of Medicine Laboratory of Cell Biology Toulouse France
Abdelfattah Elfeki, Faculty of Sciences Department of Biology, Laboratory of Animal Ecophysiology BP 3000 3018 Sfax Tunisia
Both climate change and the adverse effects of chemical use on human and environmental health are recognized as serious issues
of global concern. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the agricultural sector where release of greenhouse gases such as
carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane continues to be problematic and where use of nitrogen fertilizer is responsible
for negative impacts on both human populations and ecosystems. The manipulation of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) could
help alleviate part of the difficulty by decreasing the need for nitrogen fertilizers, which require huge quantities of fossil
fuel to produce and contribute to the release of nitrous oxide from soil as well as being responsible for the contamination
of drinking water systems and natural habitats. BNF is performed by a variety of microorganisms. One of the most studied examples
is the BNF carried out by rhizobial bacteria in symbiosis with their plant hosts such as pea and soybean. Hydrogen gas is
an energy-rich, obligate by-product of BNF. Legume symbioses with rhizobia lacking hydrogenase enzymes (which can recycle
hydrogen) have traditionally been viewed as energetically inefficient. However, recent studies suggest hydrogen release to
soil may be beneficial, increasing soil carbon sequestration and promoting growth of hydrogen-oxidizing bacteria beneficial
to plant growth; the alleged superiority of symbiotic performance in rhizobia possessing functional hydrogenases (HUP+) over those rhizobia without functional hydrogenases (HUP−) has also not been conclusively shown. The structure of the iron-molybdenum cofactor or FeMo-co of nitrogenase (the active
site of the enzyme) has been elucidated through X-ray crystallography but the mechanism of nitrogen fixation remains unknown.
However, studies of effects of hydrogen production on BNF have revealed potential candidate intermediates involved in the
nitrogenase reaction pathway and have also shown the role of hydrogen as a competitive inhibitor of N2, with hydrogen now considered to be the primary regulator of the nitrogenase electron allocation coefficient. The regulation
of oxygen levels within legume root nodules is also being investigated; nitrogen fixation is energetically expensive, requiring
a plentiful oxygen supply but too high an oxygen concentration can irreversibly damage nitrogenase, so some regulation is
needed. There is evidence from gas diffusion studies suggesting the presence of a diffusion barrier in nodules; leghaemoglobin
is another potential O2 regulator. Possible functions of hydrogenases include hydrogen recycling, protection of nitrogenase from damaging O2 levels and prevention of inhibitory H2 accumulation; there is evidence for H2 recycling only in studies where H2 uptake has been strongly coupled to ATP production and where this is not the case, it is believed that the hydrogenase acts
as an O2 scavenger, lowering O2 concentrations. The distribution of hydrogenases in temperate legumes has been found to be narrow and root and shoot grafting
experiments suggest the host plant may exert some influence on the expression of hydrogenase (HUP) genes in rhizobia that
possess them. Many still believe that HUP+ rhizobia are superior in performance to HUP− species; to this end, many attempts to increase the relative efficiency of nitrogenase through the introduction of HUP genes
into the plasmids or chromosomes of HUP− rhizobia have been carried out and some have met with success but many other studies have not revealed an increase in symbiotic
performance after successful insertion of HUP genes so the role of HUP in increasing parameters such as N2 fixation and plant yield is still unclear. One advantage of the hydrogen production innate to BNF is that the H2 evolved can be used to measure N2 fixation using new open-flow gas chamber techniques seen as superior to the traditional acetylene reduction assay (ARA) conducted
in closed chambers, although H2 cannot be used for field studies yet as the ARA can. However, the ARA is now believed to be unreliable in field studies and
it is recommended that other measures such as dry weight, yield and total nitrogen content are more accurate, especially in
determining real food production, particularly in the developing nations. Another potential benefit of H2 release from root nodules is that it stays in the soil and has been found to be consumed by H2-oxidizing bacteria, many of which show plant growth–promoting properties such as the inhibition of ethylene biosynthesis
in the host plant, leading to root elongation and increased plant growth; they may well be promising as biofertilizers if
they can be successfully developed into seed inoculants for non-leguminous crop species, decreasing the need for chemical
fertilizers. It has been suggested that rhizobia can produce nitrous oxide through denitrification but this has never been
shown; it is possible that hydrogen release may provide more ideal conditions for denitrifying, free-living bacteria and so
increase production of nitrous oxide that way and this issue will require more study. However, it seems unlikely that a natural
system would release nitrous oxide to the same degree that chemical fertilizers have been shown to do.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Review
DOI 10.1007/s10311-010-0278-y
Authors
Amber-Leigh Golding, Dalhousie University Department of Biology 1355 Oxford Street Halifax NS B3H 4J1 Canada
Zhongmin Dong, Saint Mary’s University Department of Biology 923 Robie Street Halifax NS B3H 3C3 Canada
Fabio Maselli, Marta Chiesi, Anna Barbati, Piermaria Corona
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Fabio Maselli, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b924629k
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Manuela Oliveira, Luis Delgado, Helena Ribeiro, Ilda Abreu
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Manuela Oliveira, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b913705j
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Takami Morita, Ken Fujimoto, Hiromi Kasai, Haruya Yamada, Kou Nishiuchi
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Takami Morita, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b920173d
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Aimo Oikari, Marja Lahti, Paivi Merilainen, Sergey Afanasyev, Aleksei Krasnov
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Aimo Oikari, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b922532c
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Young Geun Lee, Joo-Hyon Kang, Seo Jin Ki, Sung Min Cha, Kyung Hwa Cho, Yun Seok Lee, Yongeun Park, Seung Won Lee, Joon Ha Kim
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Young Geun Lee, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b920235h
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Michela Agostini, Frank de Vocht, Martie van Tongeren, John W. Cherrie, Karen S. Galea, Hans Kromhout
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Michela Agostini, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b923497g
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Steven J. Granger, Roland Bol, Liz Dixon, Pam S. Naden, Gareth H. Old, Jon K. Marsh, Gary Bilotta, Richard Brazier, Sue M. White, Philip M. Haygarth
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Steven J. Granger, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b915929k
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Stephan Weinbruch, Martin Ebert, Hauke Gorzawski, Thomas Dirsch, Torunn Berg, Eiliv Steinnes
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Stephan Weinbruch, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b926876f
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Shujing Li, Tielong Li, Zongming Xiu, Zhaohui Jin
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Shujing Li, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b919909h
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Katrin Vorkamp, Jakob Strand, Jan H. Christensen, Tore C. Svendsen, Pia Lassen, Asger B. Hansen, Martin M. Larsen, Ole Andersen
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Katrin Vorkamp, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b918998j
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Michael Keane, Samuel Stone, Bean Chen
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Michael Keane, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b922840c
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Dagmar S. Urgast, Gillian C. Adams, Andrea Raab, Jorg Feldmann
(Paper from J. Environ. Monit.)
Dagmar S. Urgast, J. Environ. Monit., 2010, DOI: 10.1039/b924351h
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The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Tessa M. Scown, Rhys M. Goodhead, Blair D. Johnston, Julian Moger, Mohammed Baalousha, Jamie R. Lead, Ronny van Aerle, Taisen Iguchi, Charles R. Tyler - Volume 7(1)
Abstract Phytoremediation of heavy metal contaminated sites is often limited by the low-bioavailability of the contaminants. Complexing
agents can help to improve this technique by enhancing heavy metal solubility. Pot experiments were conducted to determine
the best time for the application of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and sheep manure extract (SME) for phytoremediation
of a contaminated soil by Brassica napus. The plant was grown on a mine calcareous soil treated with increasing concentrations of EDTA or SME 30 and 10 days before
sowing (T1 and T2) and 10 and 30 days after sowing (T3 and T4). Soil available Pb and lead concentrations in plant organs
of Brassica napus increased with EDTA concentration. The EDTA application before seed germination significantly reduced rapeseed seedling emergence
and dry weight. However, the actual amount of phytoextracted Pb by rapeseed did not decrease significantly, due to severe
growth depression, at high EDTA concentrations when it had applied at a suitable time (T4). SME application after sowing increased
plant dry weight and Pb concentration in the soil solution and enhanced the accumulated metal concentrations in shoots and
roots. Comparing the effect of EDTA and SME on Pb phytoextraction, the study showed that SME is not more effective than EDTA.
The efficiency of EDTA on Pb phytoextraction by Brassica napus depends on the time of application. The most efficient treatment for Pb phytoextraction by rapeseed was application of 2 g
EDTA/kg soil at T4.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-010-0275-1
Authors
Ali Akbar Safari Sinegani, Bu-Ali Sina University Hamedan Iran
Fahime Khalilikhah, Bu-Ali Sina University Hamedan Iran
Abstract We report a facile approach for preparing mesoporous boron-doped TiO2 materials by combining the sol–gel process with the dehydration of glucose. Specifically a high surface carbon material
was formed by dehydration of glucose, then used as template. This material and the TiO2 dry gel were calcinated to produce porous TiO2. The as-synthesized boron-doped TiO2 was in pure anatase crystallite phase with high surface area. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results showed that
boron was incorporated into the anatase TiO2 lattice to form TiO2−xBx. The absorption spectra of TiO2−xBx extended into the visible region to 460 nm. The TiO2−xBx exhibited much higher photocatalytic activity on phenol degradation than pure TiO2. It showed that the phenol degradation by-products of TiO2−xBx were different from that of pure TiO2. Mechanism of the photocatalytic degradation of phenol at TiO2−xBx was also proposed.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-010-0274-2
Authors
Leyan Xiong, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Longzhen Zheng, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Jingpeng Xu, Jiangxi Institute of Analysis and Testing 330029 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Dan Zheng, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Junhua Li, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Xinjia Li, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Juan Sun, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Qiang Liu, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Liling Niu, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Shaoming Yang, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Jian Xia, East China Jiao Tong University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering 330013 Nanchang Jiangxi People’s Republic of China
Abstract Humic acids (HAs) are formed during decomposition of organic matter. Their adsorption, dispersion or emulsification properties
attract the interest of medical science and pharmacy. The aim of this work was to study antimutagenic effects of processed
HA. Yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae D7 was first used for HA antimutagenicity testing. The highest antimutagenic activity was found in potassium and sodium humates.
Humates isolated from lignite pre-treated by HNO3 exhibited slightly lower antimutagenic activity; this effect is caused probably by their higher oxidation degree. Sodium
humate processed at 250°C exhibited genotoxic effect, which is probably connected with accelerated formation of reactive oxygen
species such as superoxide anion by HA at higher temperature.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0270-6
Authors
I. Marova, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
J. Kucerik, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
K. Duronova, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
A. Mikulcova, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Z. Vlckova, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Abstract Soil is damaged by several threats and, among them, chemical contamination by pesticides and compaction. However, the effect
of compaction on the fate of pesticides in soil, and the impact of pesticides on soil biological functioning are unknown.
Therefore, we studied the effect of soil compaction on the degradation of the herbicide isoproturon, and the impact of this
herbicide on an enzyme activity (β-glucosidase) involved in the C soil cycle. Undisturbed soil samples were prepared at different bulk densities, treated with
isoproturon then incubated at 18°C in darkness for 63 days. The results showed that soil compaction did not modify significantly
the degradation of isoproturon, neither the formation rates nor the nature of its metabolites. Moreover, compaction did not
modify the impact of isoproturon on β-glucosidase activity. To our knowledge, these are the first results concerning the interactions between soil compaction and
the degradation and impact of a pesticide.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0273-3
Authors
Laure Mamy, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Pauline Vrignaud, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Nathalie Cheviron, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
François Perreau, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Mehdi Belkacem, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Agathe Brault, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Sébastien Breuil, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Ghislaine Delarue, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Jean-Pierre Pétraud, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Isabelle Touton, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Christian Mougin, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Véronique Chaplain, INRA, UR 251 PESSAC Route de Saint Cyr 78026 Versailles France
Abstract The possibility of utilizing hydrochloric acid-based waste pickle liquor (WPL) and medium-grade pyrolusite ore to synthesize
manganese zinc ferrite was explored. The excess acidity of the WPL was neutralized using mild steel turnings. The unreacted
mild steel scrap and suspended solids were removed by filtration. Partial precipitation technique was employed to reduce the
impurities. The purified WPL was treated with medium-grade pyrolusite ore to prepare the leach liquor to which the required
quantities of ferrous chloride and zinc granules were added to maintain stoichiometry in the resultant compound. The hydroxy
carbonate of manganese, zinc and iron was precipitated by the addition of a hot solution (70°C) of sodium carbonate (20% v/v),
which upon sintering in argon atmosphere yielded manganese zinc ferrite. The addition of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) helped
in preventing agglomeration of the particles. Sintering at 450°C for 30 min in argon atmosphere has resulted in mixed phases
of (Zn,Mn,Fe) (Fe,Mn)2O4 and Mn3O4, which indicates lack of phase purity. Sintering at temperatures higher than 950°C for 5 h in argon atmosphere enabled complete
ferritization. The extent of ferritization was found to be a function of sintering time at 950°C. The manganese zinc ferrites
synthesized using WPL and medium-grade pyrolusite ore exhibited soft magnetic characteristics.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0272-4
Authors
B. R. V. Narasimhan, Madras Centre National Metallurgical Laboratory CSIR Complex, Taramani Chennai 600 113 India
Satendra Kumar, Madras Centre National Metallurgical Laboratory CSIR Complex, Taramani Chennai 600 113 India
T. S. N. Sankara Narayanan, Madras Centre National Metallurgical Laboratory CSIR Complex, Taramani Chennai 600 113 India
Abstract Single-wall carbon nanotubes (CNT) are one of the most attractive engineered nanomaterials due to their unique electrical,
mechanical and thermal properties, and potential use in a variety of commercial products. Due to their small size, CNT could
become easily airborne and reach the various environmental compartments and eventually the food chain and humans. However,
the environmental fate processes and health impacts of CNT are not clear. This study investigated a method for the quantitative
measurement of carbon nanotube (CNT) in natural media such soil and benthic organism tissues. Fluorescence dye Nile blue was
used for noncovalent labeling of CNT to enable their fluorescence detection. Labeled nanotubes were successfully detected
in soil samples as well as in worm tissue. We were also able to detect the presence of labeled carbon nanotubes in worms exposed
for 1 week to CNT-laden soil, which indicates CNT may transfer through environmental food web. The method allows for laboratory
measurements of CNT mass transfer and partitioning into various environmental systems.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0271-5
Authors
Minghui Yang, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Center for Advanced Sensor Technology and Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering 5200 Westland blvd. Baltimore MD 21227 USA
Seokjoon Kwon, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering 5200 Westland blvd. Baltimore MD 21227 USA
Yordan Kostov, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Center for Advanced Sensor Technology and Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering 5200 Westland blvd. Baltimore MD 21227 USA
Avraham Rasooly, FDA Division of Biology, Office of Science and Engineering Silver Spring MD 20993 USA
Govind Rao, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Center for Advanced Sensor Technology and Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering 5200 Westland blvd. Baltimore MD 21227 USA
Upal Ghosh, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering 5200 Westland blvd. Baltimore MD 21227 USA
Abstract Hybrid catalysts were synthesized by attaching iron(III)-tetrakis(p-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (FeTPP(OH)4) to humic acid (HA) via urea–formaldehyde polycondensation. FTIR spectra of the prepared catalysts indicated that the catalysts
prepared via urea–formaldehyde polycondensation contained cross-links between the phenolic groups of FeTPP(OH)4 and HA, which contains aliphatic amine functional groups. The prepared catalysts were examined for their ability to catalyze
the oxidative degradation of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in a contaminated soil suspension. The levels of PCP degradation and
dechlorination for the hybrid catalysts were significantly higher than those for the non-modified catalyst, FeTPP(OH)4.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0269-z
Authors
Masami Fukushima, Hokkaido University Division of Solid Waste, Resources and Geoenvironmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering Sapporo 060-8628 Japan
Satoko Shigematsu, Hokkaido University Division of Solid Waste, Resources and Geoenvironmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering Sapporo 060-8628 Japan
Seiya Nagao, Kanazawa University Low Level Radioactivity Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology Wake, Nomi-shi, Ishikawa 923-1224 Japan
Abstract The use of higher plants to remediate contaminated land is known as phytoremediation, a term coined 15 years ago. Among green technologies addressed to metal pollution, phytoextraction has received increasing
attention starting from the discovery of hyperaccumulator plants, which are able to concentrate high levels of specific metals
in the above-ground harvestable biomass. The small shoot and root growth of these plants and the absence of their commercially
available seeds have stimulated study on biomass species, including herbaceous field crops. We review here the results of
a bibliographical survey from 1995 to 2009 in CAB abstracts on phytoremediation and heavy metals for crop species, citations of which have greatly increased, especially after 2001. Apart from the most frequently cited
Brassica juncea (L.) Czern., which is often referred to as an hyperaccumulator of various metals, studies mainly focus on Helianthus annuus L., Zea mays L. and Brassica napus L., the last also having the greatest annual increase in number of citations. Field crops may compensate their low metal
concentration by a greater biomass yield, but available data from in situ experiments are currently very few. The use of amendments
or chelators is often tested in the field to improve metal recovery, allowing above-normal concentrations to be reached. Values
for Zn exceeding 1,000 mg kg−1 are found in Brassica spp., Phaseolus vulgaris L. and Zea mays, and Cu higher than 500 mg kg−1 in Zea mays, Phaseolus vulgaris and Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. Lead greater than 1,000 mg kg−1 is measured in Festuca spp. and various Fabaceae. Arsenic has values higher than 200 mg kg−1 in sorghum and soybean, whereas Cd concentrations are generally lower than 50 mg kg−1. Assisted phytoextraction is currently facilitated by the availability of low-toxic and highly degradable chelators, such
as EDDS and nitrilotriacetate. Currently, several experimental attempts are being made to improve plant growth and metal uptake,
and results are being achieved from the application of organic acids, auxins, humic acids and mycorrhization. The phytoremediation
efficiency of field crops is rarely high, but their greater growth potential compared with hyperaccumulators should be considered
positively, in that they can establish a dense green canopy in polluted soil, improving the landscape and reducing the mobility
of pollutants through water, wind erosion and water percolation.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Review
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0268-0
Authors
Teofilo Vamerali, University of Parma Department of Environmental Sciences Viale G.P. Usberti 11/A 43100 Parma Italy
Marianna Bandiera, University of Padova Department of Environmental Agronomy and Crop Sciences Viale dell’Università 16 35020 Legnaro, Padova Italy
Giuliano Mosca, University of Padova Department of Environmental Agronomy and Crop Sciences Viale dell’Università 16 35020 Legnaro, Padova Italy
Abstract An analytical procedure was developed to allow for the study of the levels of concentration of biocides in the various different
ports on the island of Gran Canaria, The Canary Islands. The analytes studied were extracted from water samples using solid-phase
extraction and then determined by high-performance liquid chromatography using a diode array detector. The relative standard
deviations of the developed procedure were under 12%. Recoveries over 85% and limits of detection between 0.007 and 0.4 μg/L
were obtained for all the analytes. The method was applied to the analysis of sea water samples from the ports and marinas
on the island of Gran Canaria.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0265-3
Authors
Álvaro Sánchez Rodríguez, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Marine Sciences 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Spain
Zoraida Sosa Ferrera, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Marine Sciences 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Spain
José Juan Santana Rodríguez, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Marine Sciences 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Spain
Abstract High production cost is the key issue of biodiesel industry nowadays. To low down the cost, using low-quality lipids feedstock
is the most effective way. Two-step process is vastly applied to deal with those low-quality lipids to produce biodiesel.
However, environmentally unfriendly wastes are formed during the process. Here we use calcium oxide residue and wastewater
from biodiesel production to produce nanostructured calcium carbonate (CaCO3) by carbonation at ambient temperature. The results show that CaCO3 is hydrophobic and has broccoli-like morphology. It is made up of many uniform nano-rods, and each rod is composed of smaller
particles with diameters about 50 nm. The idea of wastes utilization could make the biodiesel production process environmentally
friendly, and the income of the produced CaCO3 could further low down the cost of biodiesel production.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0267-1
Authors
Hong Lei, Jilin University College of Chemistry Qianjin Street 2699 130012 Changchun China
Xue Chen, Jilin University College of Chemistry Qianjin Street 2699 130012 Changchun China
Shuang Guan, Jilin University College of Chemistry Qianjin Street 2699 130012 Changchun China
Yang Liu, Jilin University College of Chemistry Qianjin Street 2699 130012 Changchun China
Xuefeng Ding, Jilin University College of Chemistry Qianjin Street 2699 130012 Changchun China
Zichen Wang, Jilin University College of Chemistry Qianjin Street 2699 130012 Changchun China
Abstract The present study investigated the influence of 241Am on microbial growth and the degradation of organic waste. Leachate samples collected in a lysimeter were periodically analyzed
for bacterial growth, under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. 241Am inhibited bacterial growth, and the degradation of organic matter was delayed in comparison with the control. Minimal inhibitory
concentration assays and survival curves revealed that it inhibits the growth of Pseudomonas putida F1. The assay also revealed that 241Am is more toxic than 238U, Zn2+ and Cd2+. This study further led to the finding of four new radionuclide-tolerant bacterial strains: Flavobacterium spp., Pseudomonas gladioli, Chryseobacterium indologenes and Ochrobactrum anthropi. The survival curves of P. gladioli, C. indologenes revealed that these bacteria are resistant to metal as consortia.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0266-2
Authors
Rafael Vicente de Pádua Ferreira, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Solange Kazumi Sakata, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Vera Lúcia Keiko Isiki, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Hissae Miyamoto, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Maria Helena Bellini, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Luis Filipe C. P. de Lima, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Júlio Takehiro Marumo, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute—IPEN – CNEN/SP Waste Management Laboratory Av Professor Lineu Prestes, 2242 Cidade Universitária, São Paulo SP 05508-000 Brazil
Abstract The charge distribution, the isolation, purification, and characterization of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were investigated.
A new HRP protein binding La (La-HRP) was found for the first time in vivo. The molecular weight of the La-HRP protein is
about 43,833 Da. The activity index (Rz) of the La-HRP protein (Rz = 2.4) is lower than that of HRP (Rz = 3.1). The La-HRP
protein is absorbed in the plasma membrane of the plant and animal, leading to the change in the function of the cell membrane.
Therefore, the La-HRP protein is harmful to living organisms.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0262-6
Authors
Na Jiang, Nanjing Normal University Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biofunctional Materials, College of Chemistry and Environmental Science 210097 Nanjing People’s Republic of China
Lihong Wang, Nanjing Normal University Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biofunctional Materials, College of Chemistry and Environmental Science 210097 Nanjing People’s Republic of China
Chunlei Du, Nanjing Normal University Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biofunctional Materials, College of Chemistry and Environmental Science 210097 Nanjing People’s Republic of China
Xiaolan Ding, Tsinghua University State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology 100084 Beijing People’s Republic of China
Xiaohua Huang, Nanjing Normal University Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biofunctional Materials, College of Chemistry and Environmental Science 210097 Nanjing People’s Republic of China
Edward Tipping, Heather T. Corbishley, Jean-Francois Koprivnjak, Daniel J. Lapworth, Matthew P. Miller, Colin D. Vincent, John Hamilton-Taylor - Volume 6(6)
Frank Keppler, Mihály Boros, Christian Frankenberg, Jos Lelieveld, Andrew McLeod, Anna Maria Pirttilä, Thomas Röckmann, Jörg-Peter Schnitzler - Volume 6(6)
Abstract Recently it has come to our attention that a paper was published in this journal entitled “recycling greenhouse gas fossil
fuel emissions into low radiocarbon food products to reduce human genetic damage” (Williams in Environ Chem Lett 5:197–202,
2007). In this article, it is argued that food grown in a greenhouse is healthier for people, when the greenhouse is fertilised
with CO2 prepared from fossil fuels. In this comment, however, we argue that the effect on human health is completely negligible.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0264-4
Authors
J. van der Plicht, Groningen University Center for Isotope Research Groningen The Netherlands
J. P. M. Beijers, Groningen University Kernfysisch Versneller Instituut Groningen The Netherlands
Abstract The Au/Al2O3 and Au–Rh/Al2O3 catalysts were prepared by deposition–precipitation. The promotional effect of Rh on the performance of the Au/Al2O3 catalyst for CO oxidation was studied. The results indicate that using Au/Al2O3 catalyst, CO can be completely oxidized at 0°C or much lower temperature but the catalyst deactivated very fast. Rh can improve
the stability of Au/Al2O3 catalyst more than 10 times, which gives an important hint to develop high stable catalyst for CO oxidation at low temperature.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0261-7
Authors
Xiaohong Wang, East China University of Science and Technology Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Research Institute of Industrial Catalysis Shanghai China
Guanzhong Lu, East China University of Science and Technology Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Research Institute of Industrial Catalysis Shanghai China
Yun Guo, East China University of Science and Technology Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Research Institute of Industrial Catalysis Shanghai China
Zhigang Zhang, East China University of Science and Technology Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Research Institute of Industrial Catalysis Shanghai China
Yanglong Guo, East China University of Science and Technology Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Research Institute of Industrial Catalysis Shanghai China
Abstract Several physiologically based extraction procedures have been proposed to estimate the fraction of the potentially toxic element
content that would be bioaccessible in the human gastro-intestinal tract following accidental ingestion of soil. Many of these
procedures are complex, they have been applied to a very limited range of soils, and most work has focussed on arsenic and
lead. In the present study, a simplified, two-stage extraction, simulating the human stomach and intestine, was developed
and applied to urban soil samples from ten public-access areas in the City of Torino, Italy. The human oral bioaccessibility
of chromium, copper, nickel, lead and zinc was estimated. Lead and zinc bioaccessibilities were found to be higher in the
stomach, but chromium was more bioaccessible in the intestine. Analyte concentrations were higher in roadside soils than in
soils from parks. A higher proportion of the soil metal content was found in bioaccessible forms at roadsides than in parks.
Comparison of the current findings with results of earlier work involving sequential extraction of the same soils indicated
that the sequential procedure gave a relative, but not an absolute, indication of bioaccessibility. Calculations based on
the bioaccessible analyte concentrations suggest that ingestion of only 2–3 g of some of the roadside soil samples from Torino
could deliver the tolerable daily oral intake of chromium, nickel and lead to a 20-kg child. The developed procedure is useful
for preliminary screening of soils and prediction of whether their bioaccessible metal contents are likely to pose a risk
to human health.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0263-5
Authors
Julien Sialelli, University of Strathclyde WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry 295 Cathedral Street Glasgow G1 1XL UK
Christine M. Davidson, University of Strathclyde WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry 295 Cathedral Street Glasgow G1 1XL UK
Andrew S. Hursthouse, University of the West of Scotland School of Engineering and Science High Street Paisley PA1 2BE UK
Franco Ajmone-Marsan, Università di Torino DI.VA.P.R.A., Chimica Agraria Via Leonardo da Vinci, 44 10095 Grugliasco Torino Italy
Abstract A new composite for water treatment was prepared by melt blend for oil and hexavalent chromium absorption. Ethylene Propylene
Diene Monomer (EPDM) was the matrix, calcinatory Fe2O3 and anion-exchange resin 201×7 were the fillers. This composite can suspend in water–oil contact (WOC) and absorb oils and
hexavalent chromium in wastewater simultaneously. The absorbencies of composites changed greatly with various ratios of calcinatory
Fe2O3 and anion-exchange resin 201×7. The results showed that the oil absorbencies increased continuously and hexavalent chromium
absorbencies were step-down as calcinatory Fe2O3 loadings from 13 to 19%. The composite can adsorb oils and hexavalent chromium simultaneously. The optimized proportion of
calcinatory Fe2O3 and anion-exchange resin 201×7 in composite was found when the absorbencies of oils and hexavalent chromium reaching the
maximum simultaneously. This composite is an inexpensive, convenient and high efficiency material for removing oils and hexavalent
chromium from wastewater.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Review
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0256-4
Authors
X. Q. Liu, Jilin Agricultural University College of Food Science and Engineering 130118 Changchun China
G. Zhang, Jilin University Key Laboratory of Automobile Materials of Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering 130012 Changchun China
H. Q. Xing, Jilin University College of Quartermaster Technology 130062 Changchun China
P. Huang, Jilin University Key Laboratory of Automobile Materials of Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering 130012 Changchun China
X. L. Zhang, Jilin University Key Laboratory of Automobile Materials of Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering 130012 Changchun China
Abstract Aquatic environments are often exposed to toxic heavy metals, which gain access to the food chain via microalgae and may cause
severe problems at higher trophic levels. However, such a metabolic specificity can be taken advantage of in bioremediation
strategies. The potential of a novel wild strain of Scenedesmus obliquus, previously isolated from a heavy metal-contaminated site in northern Portugal, to remove Zn from aqueous solutions was thus
studied, using several initial concentrations. The removal extent reached its maximum by 1 day: 836.5 mg Zn/g biomass, at
the initial concentration of 75 mg/L, mainly by adsorption onto the cell surface. Comparative studies encompassing a commercially
available strain of the same microalgal species led to a maximum removal extent of only 429.6 mg Zn/g biomass, under identical
conditions. Heat-inactivated cells permitted a maximum removal of 209.6 mg Zn/g biomass, at an initial concentration of 50 mg
Zn/L. The maximum adsorption capacity of Zn, estimated via Langmuir’s isotherm, was 330 mg Zn/g biomass. Finally, Zn removal
was highest at pH 6.0–7.0. It was proven, for the first time, that such a wild microalga can uptake and adsorb Zn very efficiently,
which unfolds a particularly good potential for bioremediation. Its performance is far better than similar (reference) species,
especially near neutrality, and even following heat-treatment.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0258-2
Authors
Cristina M. Monteiro, Universidade Católica Portuguesa CBQF/Escola Superior de Biotecnologia Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 4200-072 Porto Portugal
Paula M. L. Castro, Universidade Católica Portuguesa CBQF/Escola Superior de Biotecnologia Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 4200-072 Porto Portugal
F. Xavier Malcata, Universidade Católica Portuguesa CBQF/Escola Superior de Biotecnologia Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 4200-072 Porto Portugal
Abstract Bioremediation potential of bacteria and fungi isolated from sludge samples has been investigated (Danube alluvium, Pančevo,
Serbia). Total isolated microorganisms were divided into three parts. One part was added with actidione antifungicide. The
second part was added with streptomycin antibiotic. The third part was without additives. Paraffinic type of crude oil was
a substrate for assessment of bioremediation potential. The simulated oil biodegradation lasted 30, 60 and 90 days. Parallel
with that, the experiments with blind trial were conducted. Extracts were isolated from the samples with chloroform in a separate
funnel. They were assayed for the group composition (alkanes, aromatics, alcohols and fatty acids) by column chromatography.
Alkane fraction was analysed by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The most intense oil degradation was achieved
in the experiments with bacteria, somewhat weaker with consortium of fungi and bacteria, and the weakest bioremediation potential
in these experiments was shown by fungi.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0257-3
Authors
Mila Ilić, IChTM Center of Chemistry Studentski trg 12-16 11001 Belgrade Serbia
Mališa Antić, IChTM Center of Chemistry Studentski trg 12-16 11001 Belgrade Serbia
Vesna Antić, IChTM Center of Chemistry Studentski trg 12-16 11001 Belgrade Serbia
Jan Schwarzbauer, Aachen University Institute of Geology and Geochemistry of Petroleum and Coal Lochenerstrasse 4-20 52056 Aachen Germany
Miroslav Vrvić, University of Belgrade Faculty of Chemistry Studentski trg 12-16 11001 Belgrade Serbia
Branimir Jovančićević, University of Belgrade Faculty of Chemistry Studentski trg 12-16 11001 Belgrade Serbia
Abstract Imprinted polymer particles have been developed as a novel adsorbent for the adsorption of copper from aqueous solution. This
method has received much attention in various fields because of their high selectivity for template molecules. In this work,
separation of copper from water and biological samples by batch solid phase extraction based on molecular imprinting technique
is presented. Copper-imprinted polymer was prepared by free radical solution polymerization in a glass tube containing CuSO4, morin, 4-vinylpyridine as a functional monomer, ethyleneglycoldimethacrylate as a cross-linking monomer, 2,2′- azobisisobutyronitrile
as an initiator. The polymer block obtained was ground and sieved, and the Cu-morin complex was removed from polymer particles.
The synthesized polymer particles both prior to and after leaching have been characterized by IR and X-ray diffraction studies.
The effect of different parameters, such as pH, adsorption and desorption time, type and least amount of the eluent for elution
of the complex from polymer were evaluated. The limit of detection of the proposed method was 0.12 μg L−1. The method was applied to the recovery and determination of copper in water and biological real samples.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0260-8
Authors
Mostafa Khajeh, University of Zabol Department of Chemistry P.O. Box 98615-538 Zabol Iran
Esmael Sanchooli, University of Zabol Department of Chemistry P.O. Box 98615-538 Zabol Iran
Abstract The occurrence of pharmaceuticals in natural waters is a potential threat to human nutrition and ecosystem quality. The persistence
of the acidic pharmaceuticals gemfibrozil, naproxen and mefenamic acid was studied in surface waters of Maracaibo Lake and
Tule reservoir (Venezuela) under laboratory conditions. A quick and easy analytical method was developed for the determination
of the acidic drugs at microgram per liter levels using aqueous derivatization, liquid–liquid extraction and gas chromatography–mass
spectrometry. Pharmaceuticals degradation followed a pseudo first-order kinetic and their half-lives were calculated for every
experimental condition. Under sunlight, naproxen and mefenamic acid were degraded at moderate rates with half-lives from 9.6 ± 0.5
to 27.0 ± 6.6 days, while gemfibrozil had a higher persistence (t1/2 = 119.5 ± 15.6 − 288.8 ± 61.3 days).
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0239-5
Authors
Lilia Araujo, University of Zulia Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Engineering PO Box 4011-A-526 Maracaibo Venezuela
Noreiva Villa, University of Zulia Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Engineering PO Box 4011-A-526 Maracaibo Venezuela
Nuris Camargo, University of Zulia Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Engineering PO Box 4011-A-526 Maracaibo Venezuela
Maikellys Bustos, University of Zulia Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Engineering PO Box 4011-A-526 Maracaibo Venezuela
Theobaldo García, University of Zulia Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Engineering PO Box 4011-A-526 Maracaibo Venezuela
Avismelsi de Jesus Prieto, University of Zulia Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Engineering PO Box 4011-A-526 Maracaibo Venezuela
Abstract A novel cation exchanger, polymethacrylic acid-grafted saw dust (SD) with spacer group (SP) containing carboxylate functional
group at the chain end (SDGPMA-SP-COOH) was prepared from saw dust of Jack wood, and its adsorption equilibrium and thermodynamics
of Cr(III) ions were studied at different initial concentrations and temperatures at pH 7.0 using batch technique. Thermodynamic
parameters such as change in standard free energy, ΔG0, standard enthalpy, ΔH0 and standard entropy, ΔS0 were determined. The values of isosteric heat of adsorption (ΔHx) remain constant at different surface loading of Cr(III) indicating homogeneous surface sites and the absence of lateral
interaction between adsorbed ions.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0255-5
Authors
T. S. Anirudhan, University of Kerala Department of Chemistry Kariavattom Trivandrum 695 581 India
P. G. Radhakrishnan, University of Kerala Department of Chemistry Kariavattom Trivandrum 695 581 India
Abstract The formation of stable and potentially hazardous compounds as a result of photochemical transformation of pharmaceutical
substances in the aquatic environment implies a demand for standard compounds within environmental analysis. The major phototransformation
products of diclofenac are comprised of substituted diphenylamines and carbazoles. Substituted diphenylamines were synthesized
by Ullmann condensation reactions between anilines and halobenzenes. Monochlorocarbazoles were obtained from palladium-catalyzed
intramolecular coupling reactions of monochlorinated diphenylamines, photocyclization of dichlorinated diphenylamines or by
direct chlorination of carbazole. The availability of synthetic photoproducts of diclofenac is of critical importance for
further studies on the environmental fate as well as the ecotoxicological effects of the drug in the environment.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0259-1
Authors
Jesper Svanfelt, Åbo Akademi University Laboratory of Organic Chemistry Biskopsgatan 8 20500 Turku Finland
Leif Kronberg, Åbo Akademi University Laboratory of Organic Chemistry Biskopsgatan 8 20500 Turku Finland
Abstract In the present article, a simple, rapid, sensitive and economical method has been developed for the simultaneous separation
and preconcentration of the trace amounts of copper, nickel, cobalt and manganese in water samples by using modified XAD-4
resins. The sorption was quantitative in the pH range 6.0–9.0, whereas quantitative desorption occurred instantaneously with
5.0 mL of 2 M HNO3, and selected elements have been determined by using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Dynamic ranges were 0.04–3.5,
0.1–6.0, 0.04–4.5 and 0.04–4.0 μg/mL for copper, nickel, cobalt and manganese, respectively. The detection limits were 9.2,
28.6, 12.3 and 5.7 ng/mL for Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II) and Mn(II), respectively. The effects of the experimental parameters,
including the sample pH, eluent type, interference ions and breakthrough volume, were studied for separation and preconcentration
of Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II) and Mn(II) ions. Determination of these ions in standard samples confirmed that the proposed method
has good accuracy. The proposed method was used for the determination of these ions in water samples.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0254-6
Authors
Daryoush Afzali, International Center for Science, High Technology and Environmental Sciences Environment Department, Research Institute of Environmental Sciences Kerman Iran
Sayez Zia Mohammadi, Payame Noor University Department of Chemistry Bam Iran
Abstract The levels of a wide variety of pharmaceuticals and hormones, in source and potable-water supplies of French drinking water
treatment plants, were assessed. In surface waters, 27 of the 51 target compounds were determined at least once. Paracetamol,
salicylic acid and carbamazepine were quantified in more than 80% of samples. The highest concentration of 71 ng/L was observed
for paracetamol. Twelve other substances were widely found in the surface waters studied, contaminating between 33 and 80%
of the samples. These compounds include analgesics, psychotropic drugs, antibiotics and beta-blockers consistent with the
French consumption, as well as natural hormones (oestrone, progesterone and androgens) and synthetic progestatives. In drinking
water supplies, 25 compounds were also present, salicylic acid being the most frequently detected. Carbamazepine and the β-blocker
atenolol found at lower levels (maximum 2 ng/L), are also present in more than 30% of the contaminated drinking waters. The
pharmaceuticals exhibit different reactivity towards the treatments, while progestagens and androgens seem resistant to most
of them. The effectiveness of the treatments is discussed, as well as the consequences of the presence of all these compounds
on human health. This is the first time that such a long list of compounds (51) is proposed to assessment, and consequently
this study provides the first data on pharmaceuticals and steroids occurrences in French drinking waters and represents a
basis for the assessment of risks for humans. Moreover, at the international level, this is the first time that so many substances
are quantified in drinking water, due to the very low detection limits, especially in the case of the hormones.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0253-7
Authors
Emmanuelle Vulliet, Service Central d’Analyse du CNRS - USR59 Chemin du Canal 69360 Solaize France
Cécile Cren-Olivé, Service Central d’Analyse du CNRS - USR59 Chemin du Canal 69360 Solaize France
Marie-Florence Grenier-Loustalot, Service Central d’Analyse du CNRS - USR59 Chemin du Canal 69360 Solaize France
Abstract A novel quantitative structure–retention relationship model has been developed for the gas chromatographic relative retention
times (tR) of 67 polychlorinated monoterpene congeners in a non-polar column. Modeling of the relative retention time of these compounds
as a function of the theoretically derived descriptors was established by principal component and partial least squares regressions.
The choice of optimal training sets is efficiently performed by Kohonen self-organizing map. The genetic algorithm was used
for the selection of the variables resulted in the best-fitted models. Appropriate models with low standard errors and high
correlation coefficients were obtained. Wiener index, Balaban index, and ideal gas thermal capacity are examples of the descriptors
affected by the retention times of polychlorinated monoterpenes.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0251-9
Authors
Jahan B. Ghasemi, K.N. Toosi University of Technology Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences Tehran Iran
Sh. Ahmadi, Razi University Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science Kermanshah Iran
S. D. Brown, University of Delaware Chemistry and Biochemistry Department Newark DE 19716 USA
Abstract The degradation of camphor using titanium/ruthenium dioxide (TiO2/RuO2; 70:30) electrodes was investigated in a photoelectrochemical thin-film reactor under near UV light irradiation. Two different
electrolytes (Na2SO4 and NaCl) were used in this work. Camphor degradation was monitored by solvent extraction methods and gas chromatography
(GC) analysis. Comparative studies between photoelectrochemical, electrochemical, photolytic, and heterogeneous photocatalytical
process were carried out. When NaCl was used, the degradation efficiency of camphor was improved, probably on account of electrochemical
generation of active chlorine species and their photochemical conversion to chlorine radicals. Under these conditions camphor
was completely mineralized at reaction times of 30 min.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0252-8
Authors
Adriane Martins de Freitas, Universidade Federal do Paraná Departamento de Química PO Box 19081 81531-990 Curitiba PR Brazil
Carla Sirtori, Universidade Federal do Paraná Departamento de Química PO Box 19081 81531-990 Curitiba PR Brazil
Patricio Peralta-Zamora, Universidade Federal do Paraná Departamento de Química PO Box 19081 81531-990 Curitiba PR Brazil
Abstract In this study, zinc-contaminated soils were chosen as a candidate material for the removal of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from hot coal-derived gas. Laboratory experiments showed that H2S was decreased to less than 10 ppm when the zinc-contaminated soils were reacted with H2S. The best removal temperature of H2S was found to be at 550°C in the operating conditions. In addition to zinc species, free iron oxides in contaminated soils
also performed an active species to react with H2S and enhanced the sulfur capacity. Through the XPS analysis, iron sulfide (FeS) and zinc sulfide (ZnS) were the major products
after removal experiments. Regeneration experimental results indicated that the zinc-contaminated soils can be regenerated
by pass diluted air and thus be reused on the removal of H2S for many times.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0249-3
Authors
Tzu-Hsing Ko, Kao Fong College of Digital Contents Department of Leisure and Recreation Management 38, Hsin-Hsing Road Chang-Ji Hsiang, Pingtung County Taiwan
Abstract A new method for the determination of submicromolar and nanomolar concentrations of herbicide Bifenox using differential pulse
voltammetry at a mercury meniscus modified silver solid amalgam electrode is described. This new type of working electrode
is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and compatible with principles of green analytical chemistry, and its surface can
be easily electrochemically renewed in the case of passivation. The newly developed direct differential pulse voltammetric
determination of Bifenox gives limit of determination 6.7·10−7 and 6.9·10−7 M in drinking and river water, respectively. Both the selectivity and the sensitivity can be further increased by preliminary
separation and preconcentration using solid phase extraction. This combination enables to reach limit of determination 0.9 × 10−9 and 1.5 × 10−9 M for drinking and river water, respectively. Because of lower running and investment costs, this electroanalytical method
can be used for large scale monitoring of possible water contamination with tested herbicide.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0250-x
Authors
Jiří Barek, Charles University in Prague Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, UNESCO Laboratory of Environmental Electrochemistry Albertov 6 CZ-128 43 Prague 2 Czech Republic
Dana Cabalková, Charles University in Prague Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, UNESCO Laboratory of Environmental Electrochemistry Albertov 6 CZ-128 43 Prague 2 Czech Republic
Jan Fischer, Charles University in Prague Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, UNESCO Laboratory of Environmental Electrochemistry Albertov 6 CZ-128 43 Prague 2 Czech Republic
Tomáš Navrátil, J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of ASCR, v.v.i. Dolejškova 3 182 23 Prague 8 Czech Republic
Karolina Pecková, Charles University in Prague Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, UNESCO Laboratory of Environmental Electrochemistry Albertov 6 CZ-128 43 Prague 2 Czech Republic
Bogdan Yosypchuk, J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of ASCR, v.v.i. Dolejškova 3 182 23 Prague 8 Czech Republic
Abstract Treatment of landfill leachate is a worldwide problem at present. A pretreatment process, struvite MgNH4PO4·6H2O precipitation, was developed to treat raw landfill leachate, and its performance was biologically validated in this manuscript.
During the struvite precipitation, the suitable operating pH was 9 with 97.8% NH4+-N removal. It was found that temperature had no significant effect on the treatment efficiency of struvite precipitation,
but clearly affected COD removal and BOD/COD ratio. At 40°C, NH4+-N removal, COD removal and BOD/COD ratio were above 95, 56 and 0.70%, respectively. The X-ray diffraction analysis verified
that the precipitate formed mainly was struvite and other compounds of phosphor may be formed accompanying the struvite production.
In membrane bioreactor system, the average MLVSS/MLSS ratio of 0.55 characterized the operation at 24 h HRT had a surge to
0.69 during HRT of 12 h. These indicated that the struvite-pretreated leachate could provide benefits.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0248-4
Authors
Li Xiu-Fen, Jiangnan University Lab of Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering Lihu Road 1800 214122 Wuxi City Jiangsu China
Dolores Barnes, Jiangnan University Lab of Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering Lihu Road 1800 214122 Wuxi City Jiangsu China
Chen Jian, Jiangnan University Lab of Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering Lihu Road 1800 214122 Wuxi City Jiangsu China
Abstract Naturally occurring diatomaceous earth was modified by alkaline pretreatment, and its effectiveness for Cd2+ removal from contaminated water was investigated. Batch experiments were carried out to determine Cd2+ adsorption capacity and the efficiency of the sorption process under different experimental conditions. Experimental data
showed good fitting to Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms models. The Cd2+ maximum adsorption capacity was 0.058 mmol g−1 for raw diatomite and increased to 0.195 mmol g−1 for alkaline-pretreated diatomite with efficiency higher than 96% (diatomite dose 2.5 g L−1, pH 6). Adsorption of Cd2+ to alkaline-pretreated diatomite increased as the temperature increased. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated to evaluate
the feasibility of the adsorption process at different temperatures. The adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic.
The interaction between Cd2+ ions and diatomite surface was weak enough to be considered as physical sorption, confirmed by the low value of activation
energy.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0246-6
Authors
Patricia Miretzky, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Centro de Geociencias Campus Juriquilla, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001 76230 Queretaro Mexico
Carolina Muñoz, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Centro de Geociencias Campus Juriquilla, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001 76230 Queretaro Mexico
Enrique Cantoral-Uriza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Facultad de Ciencias, Unidad multidisciplinaria de docencia e investigación Campus Juriquilla, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001 76230 Querétaro México
Abstract Recovery of gold from various waste materials is mostly achieved through hydrometallurgical methods, which generate a large
amount of secondary chemical waste. Therefore, there is a need to develop an environmentally friendly process for gold recovery.
This paper summarizes research on the recovery of gold ions from chloride solutions using fallen tree leaves. First, leaves
from trees of 16 different species were studied and ranked by the percent of gold that was recovered. Then, several factors—pH,
contact time, shaking rate, and the quantity of ground leaf—affecting the recovery process were studied on leaves from four
selected species. Two kinds of leaves were found to exhibit the efficacy of the most effective sorbents, such as activated
carbon. After recovery, the gold-deposited leaves were heat-treated at 1,200°C to isolate the gold from the leaves. This method
of gold recovery proved to be fast, cheap, and environmentally friendly.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0245-7
Authors
Serdar Aktas, Istanbul Technical University Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering 34469 Maslak, Istanbul Turkey
Baris Gozuak, Istanbul Technical University Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering 34469 Maslak, Istanbul Turkey
Hanzade Acma, Istanbul Technical University Department of Chemical Engineering 34469 Maslak, Istanbul Turkey
Mehmet Reha Ozalp, Istanbul Technical University Department of Materials Science Engineering 34469 Maslak, Istanbul Turkey
Ercan Acma, Istanbul Technical University Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering 34469 Maslak, Istanbul Turkey
Abstract Acute static bioassays were conducted for 96 h period with λ-cyhalothrin to determine its acute toxicity to a freshwater catfish,
Clarias batrachus. The 96 h LC50 value was estimated to be 5.00 μg l−1 (95% confidence limit: 4.114–5.712). The alterations in behavioral pattern, such as change in the color of skin, hyperactivity,
loss of balance, rapid swimming, increased surfacing activity, enhanced rate of opercular activity, as well as prominent rates
of convulsions in treated fish were observed with the increasing concentrations of insecticide as compared to the control
fish. The results indicate that λ-cyhalothrin is highly effective even at very low concentrations.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0244-8
Authors
Amit Kumar, University of Allahabad Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Zoology Allahabad 211002 India
B. Sharma, University of Allahabad Department of Biochemistry Allahabad 211002 India
Ravi S. Pandey, University of Allahabad Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Zoology Allahabad 211002 India
Abstract The removal of toxic metals from wastewaters by biosorption, based on the metal-binding capacities of various biological materials,
has received much interest. However, the success of this approach depends on economic feasibility, which can be obtained by
optimization of the environmental conditions. This paper evaluates, for the first time, the use of low-cost biosorbent (date
stones (DS) and palm-tree waste (PTW)) to eliminate Cu(II) from aqueous solutions. The effect of some parameters on copper
biosorption has been studied using date stones and palm-tree waste as solid sorbents. Results show that the highest percentage
of copper adsorption was obtained for the smallest size of the sorbent particles. The biosorption process was found to occur
rapidly, i.e. the maximum sorption capacity was reached within 20 min. The process involved pseudo-second-order kinetics with
an activation energy value within the normal range considered for processes, where a physical interaction between the sorbate
and the sorbent solid predominated. The thermodynamic parameters of the copper ions uptake onto the solid sorbents indicated
that, the process was endothermic and proceeds spontaneously from the date stones. However, the thermodynamic studies of the
adsorption of copper on palm-tree waste indicated that the process was exothermic and proceeds spontaneously.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0247-5
Authors
Zohra Belala, Institut de Chimie, USTHB Laboratoire de Chimie des Surfaces BP 32 El-Alia 1611 Alger Algeria
Mejdi Jeguirim, Université de Haute Alsace Laboratoire Gestion des Risques et Environnement 25 Rue de Chemnitz 68200 Mulhouse France
Meriem Belhachemi, Institut de Chimie, USTHB Laboratoire de Chimie des Surfaces BP 32 El-Alia 1611 Alger Algeria
Fatima Addoun, Institut de Chimie, USTHB Laboratoire de Chimie des Surfaces BP 32 El-Alia 1611 Alger Algeria
Gwenaëlle Trouvé, Université de Haute Alsace Laboratoire Gestion des Risques et Environnement 25 Rue de Chemnitz 68200 Mulhouse France
Abstract Rhodamine B can be degraded using Prussian blue as a photo-Fenton like reagent under λ > 420 nm visible irradiation. Kinetic
studies show ln(Co/Ct) is linearly proportional to the reaction time during the photo-degradation process; thus, the degradation reaction obeys
a pseudo-first order kinetic law. It is very interesting that the presence of salinity such as 0.1 M KCl can speed up greatly
the degradation rate: the time to achieve 90.0% degradation ratio is shortened from 120.0 to 40.0 min under comparable conditions,
which is very useful in the treatment of wastewaters with high content of salinity.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0242-x
Authors
Shou-Qing Liu, Suzhou University of Science and Technology College of Chemistry and Bioengineering 215009 Suzhou China
Shi Cheng, Suzhou University of Science and Technology College of Chemistry and Bioengineering 215009 Suzhou China
Li Luo, Suzhou University of Science and Technology College of Chemistry and Bioengineering 215009 Suzhou China
Hong-Ying Cheng, Suzhou University of Science and Technology College of Chemistry and Bioengineering 215009 Suzhou China
Song-Jun Wang, Suzhou University of Science and Technology College of Chemistry and Bioengineering 215009 Suzhou China
Shuai Lou, Suzhou University of Science and Technology College of Chemistry and Bioengineering 215009 Suzhou China
Abstract Carbon dioxide and methane are major compounds involved in global warming. The process of CO2 and CH4 molecules absorption by water clusters was investigated by the molecular dynamics method. The frequency spectra of dielectric
permittivity for systems consisting of (H2O)n, (CO2)i(H2O)10 and (CH4)i(H2O)10 clusters mixed in various proportions were determined. The IR radiation absorption spectra of these systems were calculated
and compared. Also, the radiating power of these systems was established. The capture of greenhouse gases’ molecules by ultra
disperse water media reduces the ability of the media to absorb the Earth’s radiation, i.e., it reduces the greenhouse effect.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0243-9
Authors
Alexander Yevgenyevich Galashev, Institute of Industrial Ecology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences Sofia Kovalevskaya Str., 20-a, GSP-594 620219 Yekaterinburg Russia
Abstract Phthalates are animal carcinogens and may cause death or tissue deformities. Samples of feedstuffs collected in 2005 and 2006
from industrial feed manufacturers in the Czech Republic were analysed for contamination with phthalic acid esters (PAEs),
specifically di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP). Samples of feed additives, premixes and raw materials were collected (year 2005, n = 26). For soybean oil, the total volume of phthalates measured (DBP + DEHP) reached a level of 131.42 mg kg−1; for rapeseed oil, fish meal and animal fats, the levels measured were 15.00, 7.96 and 58.87 mg kg−1, respectively. The lowest level of DBP + DEHP was found in corn (2.03 mg kg−1). Since phthalates were detected, samples of feed additives (n = 28) and raw materials (n = 28) were collected again in 2006. The highest levels of DBP + DEHP were found in raw materials containing fat. Phthalate
levels in rapeseed oil samples ranged from 1.38 to 32.40 mg kg−1 DBP + DEHP. For feed additives, contamination levels in vitamins and amino acids ranged from 0.06 to 3.15 and 1.76 to 4.52 mg kg−1 DBP + DEHP, respectively. Here, we show that the levels of PAEs found in cereals such as wheat, barley and corn may be regarded
as being alarmingly high, because cereals make up the largest proportion of compound feed of farm animals.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0237-7
Authors
Alžbeta Jarošová, Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry in Brno Institute of Food Technology Zemědělská 1 Brno Czech Republic
Jiří Harazim, Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry in Brno Institute of Food Technology Zemědělská 1 Brno Czech Republic
Lenka Krátká, Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry in Brno Institute of Food Technology Zemědělská 1 Brno Czech Republic
Doubravka Kolenčíková, Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry in Brno Institute of Food Technology Zemědělská 1 Brno Czech Republic
Abstract To prepare materials with improved recycling capability, new flexible biodegradable polyurethane foams, in which non-degradable
polyether polyol was partly substituted by the bio-polyols based on cellulose or starch derivatives were synthesized. The
incorporation of bio-polyols into the foams’ structures as well as their influence on the foam thermal stability was assessed
by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis analyses. The ecotoxicological aspects of the
newly synthesized foams were investigated by extracting the samples using freshwater as a solvent followed by applying the
microbiotest screening toxkit under trade name “Thamnotoxkit F™” with larvae of freshwater shrimps Thamnocephalus platyurus.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0236-8
Authors
Jan David, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Lucy Vojtová, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Materials Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Karel Bednařík, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Jiří Kučerík, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Physical and Applied Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Milada Vávrová, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Josef Jančář, Brno University of Technology Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Materials Chemistry Purkynova 118 612 00 Brno Czech Republic
Abstract Oxidised lignite is a potential alternative source of N fertilizers. Ammonoxidation is the reaction of a given substrate with
oxygen in aqueous ammonia. Lignite ammonoxidation is used for converting low-rank lignite into slowly nitrogen-releasing artificial
humic matter. A lignite sample is compared before and after ammonoxidation in terms of geochemical and petrological properties,
as well as the acid–base and physical hydrophobic sorptive behavior. The most obvious change caused by ammonoxidation is the
decrease of attrinite, texto-ulminite and textinite in favor mainly of densinite and gelohuminite. In general, the ammonoxidative
reactions promote the destruction of the structured humic macerals (texto-ulminite, textinite), and the formation of gels,
which resulted in the cementation of the freely fine humic particles (attrinite). The pzc values are 3.4 and 4.3 for oxidised
and non-oxidised lignite, respectively. After ammonoxidation the contents of carboxylic and free phenolic groups are found
to be lower. The oxidised lignite shows a statistically lower sorptive capacity and affinity than the original sample due
to a possible decrease in the hydrophobicity of the lignite.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0235-9
Authors
Hrissi K. Karapanagioti, University of Patras Department of Chemistry Rio-Patras Greece
Stavros Kalaitzidis, University of Patras Department of Geology Rio-Patras Greece
John Vakros, University of Patras Department of Chemistry Rio-Patras Greece
Kimon Christanis, University of Patras Department of Geology Rio-Patras Greece
Falk Liebner, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Department of Chemistry Muthgasse 18 Vienna Austria
Abstract Rapid methods are needed to analyse air pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Reliable semi-quantitative
gas standards were required for the development of a laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) method for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon
analysis, based on sampling of air onto multi-channel polydimethylsiloxane rubber traps. Easily constructed diffusion tubes
provided naphthalene vapour at ~2 ng s−1. A gas chromatographic fraction collection method for loading less volatile PAHs onto the traps from a flame ionization detector
outlet was developed and optimized. The accuracy of the method, which can be further optimized, was sufficient for initial
LIF screening tests to flag samples exceeding threshold PAH levels for subsequent quantitative GC–MS analysis.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0238-6
Authors
Patricia Belinda Crosby Forbes, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Natural Resources and the Environment PO Box 395 Pretoria 0001 South Africa
Andreas Trüe, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Natural Resources and the Environment PO Box 395 Pretoria 0001 South Africa
Egmont R. Rohwer, University of Pretoria Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Pretoria 0002 South Africa
Abstract Safety assessments for radioactive waste disposal require estimations of the migration of radionuclides in soils. The influence
of humic acid (HA) on the sorption of uranium in its +4 oxidation state to kaolin has been examined from pH 4 to 8, with HA
concentrations of 15–200 ppm. In the absence of HA, 20–40% of the U(IV) was in solution, with more sorption occurring at higher
pH. The presence of HA solubilised up to 90% of the uranium with higher solubilities at higher HA concentrations and higher
pH values. Uranium sorption was mapped against HA sorption, and it was found that there was a lower level of U(IV) sorption
than can be accounted for by just measuring HA sorption. However, this effect got less marked as the pH rose. Sensitivity
analysis indicated that the fraction of surface-bound HA is the controlling parameter for modelling in these systems.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0241-y
Authors
Nick Evans, Loughborough University Department of Chemistry Ashby Road Loughborough LE11 3TU UK
Peter Warwick, Loughborough University Department of Chemistry Ashby Road Loughborough LE11 3TU UK
Tara Lewis, Loughborough University Department of Chemistry Ashby Road Loughborough LE11 3TU UK
Nick Bryan, The University of Manchester Centre for Radiochemistry Research, School of Chemistry Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL UK
Abstract Contamination of edible plants by toxic metals is a threat for human health. We applied for the first time applied the non-destructive
X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) to determine concentrations of heavy metals, i.e., Fe, Ti, Mn, Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn, Sr and
Ba in plant Hemerocallis minor Miller and soils. Because this plant is used in folk medicine, the metal content assessment is important for specifying relevance
of application to produce drugs. This paper considers the distribution of elements between different parts of plant (rhizome,
stalk, leaves and flowers). The contents of metals were determined as varying in flowers and leaves depending on the time
of sampling. The acquired concentrations of elements have been compared with toxic levels provided in literature.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0240-z
Authors
Elena V. Chuparina, Institute of Geochemistry SB RAS Favorsky St.,1A 664033 Irkutsk Russia
Tatiana S. Aisueva, Institute of Geochemistry SB RAS Favorsky St.,1A 664033 Irkutsk Russia
Abstract Adsorption of vanadate(V) from aqueous solution onto industrial solid ‘waste’ Fe(III)/Cr(III) hydroxide was investigated.
HCl treated Fe(III)/Cr(III) hydroxide was found to be more efficient for the removal of vanadate(V) compared to untreated
adsorbent. The adsorption follows second-order kinetics. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms have been studied. The Langmuir
adsorption capacity (Q0) of the treated and untreated adsorbents was found to be 11.43 and 4.67 mg g−1, respectively. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic in the temperature
range 32–60°C. Maximum adsorption was found at system pH 4.0. The adsorption mechanism was predominantly ion exchange. Effect
of other anions such as phosphate, selenite, molybdate, nitrate, chloride, and sulfate on adsorption of vanadium has been
examined.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0234-x
Authors
K. Prathap, Bharathiar University Environmental Chemistry Division, Department of Environmental Sciences Coimbatore 641046 India
C. Namasivayam, Bharathiar University Environmental Chemistry Division, Department of Environmental Sciences Coimbatore 641046 India
Abstract Lightweight aggregates commonly used as construction materials contain high percentages of metal oxides and thus are potential
sorbents in aqueous systems. Here, ammonia is used as the model compound to be removed by aggregates since it is toxic for
the aquatic life and is regulated in physical systems. The point of zero charge of aggregates is determined at pH values higher
than 9. The aggregates made with raw materials from Larisa, Milos, and Samos presented ammonia sorptive capacities of 210,
220 and 400 μmol/kg, respectively. However, the LWA made from wollastonite (Samos) resulted in high pH (10.6) solutions and
thus, production of toxic unionized ammonia. Thus, a combination of high sorptive uptake and neutral pH in solution is desired
and can be achieved in future studies by selecting the appropriate raw materials for the preparation of aggregates.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0233-y
Authors
Hrissi K. Karapanagioti, University of Patras Department of Chemistry Rio Greece
J. Vakros, University of Patras Department of Chemistry Rio Greece
G. Stamatakis, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Department of Chemistry Athens Greece
S. Kavouri, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Department of Geology Athens Greece
A. Tsitsas, University of the Aegean Department of Marine Sciences Lesbos Greece
Abstract With the rise in the global population, the demand for increased supply of food has motivated scientists and engineers to
design new methods to boost agricultural production. With limited availability of land and water resources, growth in agriculture
can be achieved only by increasing productivity through good agronomy and supporting it with an effective use of modern technology.
Advanced agronomical methods lay stress not only on boosting agricultural produce through use of more effective fertilizers
and pesticides, but also on the hygienic storage of agricultural produce. The detrimental effects of modern agricultural methods
on the ecosystem have raised serious concerns amongst environmentalists. The widespread use of persistent pesticides globally
over the last six decades has contaminated groundwater and soil, resulting in diseases and hardships in non-target species
such as humans and animals. The first step in the removal of disease causing microbes from food products or harmful contaminants
from soil and groundwater is the effective detection of these damaging elements. Nanotechnology offers a lot of promise in
the area of pollution sensing and prevention, by exploiting novel properties of nanomaterials. Nanotechnology can augment
agricultural production and boost food processing industry through applications of these unique properties. Nanosensors are
capable of detecting microbes, humidity and toxic pollutants at very minute levels. Organic pesticides and industrial pollutants
can be degraded into harmless and often useful components, through a process called photocatalysis using metal oxide semiconductor
nanostructures. Nanotechnology is gradually moving out from the experimental into the practical regime and is making its presence
felt in agriculture and the food processing industry. Here we review the contributions of nanotechnology to the sensing and
degradation of pollutants for improved agricultural production with sustainable environmental protection.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Review
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0228-8
Authors
Sunandan Baruah, School of Engineering and Technology, Asian Institute of Technology Centre of Excellence in Nanotechnology P.O. Box 4 Klong Luang Pathumthani Thailand
Joydeep Dutta, School of Engineering and Technology, Asian Institute of Technology Centre of Excellence in Nanotechnology P.O. Box 4 Klong Luang Pathumthani Thailand
Abstract Humic substances from soils and sediments can be defined as surface active substances based on the surface tension measurements.
Although there are several micellar structural models of humic substances currently available, few studies evaluating humic
substances as surfactants have been conducted to date. Therefore, we evaluated the ability of humic substances and their derivatives
to influence surface tension. We found that the ability of a humic substance to influence the surface tension of a solution
depends on its origin. Many industrially produced humic materials exerted little or no impact on surface tension, whereas
humic substances isolated from natural environments (water, soil, peat, sediments, sludge from wastewater treatment facilities)
exerted a large impact on surface tension. These findings indicate that the modification of humic substances can enable their
use as surfactants. In addition, these findings indicate that solutions of humic substances and their derivatives can be used
to increase the solubility of organic compounds.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0232-z
Authors
Maris Klavins, University of Latvia Department of Environmental Sciences Raina blvd. 19 Riga 1586 Latvia
Oskars Purmalis, University of Latvia Department of Environmental Sciences Raina blvd. 19 Riga 1586 Latvia
Abstract Ozone degradation of a mixture containing methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben and benzylparaben was carried
out in aqueous solution. The degradation followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic model and occurs with two ozonation stages
with the observed rate constants of second stage ozonation, kobs2, being higher than the observed rate constants in first stage, kobs1. The kobs1 of parabens was found to increase exponentially whilst kobs2 was found to maximize at 35°C. Both kobs1 and kobs2 were found to decrease exponentially with respect to the initial concentration of parabens. Both pH and ozone dose showed
positive effects on the rate of degradation. It was also observed that an ozone dose of 0.67 g/h resulted in the removal of
99% of parabens in 12 min, and also the removal of 61 and 32% of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC),
respectively, in 3 h of ozonation time for a 500 μM of solution of parabens.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0229-7
Authors
Kheng Soo Tay, University of Malaya Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
Noorsaadah Abd. Rahman, University of Malaya Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
Mhd. Radzi Bin Abas, University of Malaya Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
Abstract Polysaccharide natural seed coat from the tree Magonia pubescens, in the form of hydrogel was used to remove metals in aqueous solution. Swelling tests indicate that seed coat presents hydrogel
behavior, with maximum water absorption of 292 g water/g. Adsorption experiments performed using Na+, Mg2+, K+, Ca2+, Cr3+, Fe3+ and Zn2+ demonstrated that the polysaccharide structure has a high capacity to extract these ions from the aqueous solution. Scanning
electron microscopy revealed significant morphological changes of the material before and after water contact. Differential
scanning calorimetry measurements indicate a signal shift of the water evaporation temperature in the material with adsorbed
zinc. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis combined with theoretical studies by the density functional theory and on
Hartree–Fock (HF) level evidence that the metallic ions were adsorbed through coordination with hydroxyl groups of polysaccharide.
In the case of Zn2+ the lowest HF energy was observed for the tetracoordination mode, where Zn2+ is coordinated by two hydroxyl groups and two water molecules.
Content Type Journal Article
Category Original Paper
DOI 10.1007/s10311-009-0231-0
Authors
Hudson Wallace Pereira Carvalho, Universidade Estadual Paulista Departamento de Fisco-Química do Instituto de Química da CP 355 Araraquara SP 14800-900 Brazil
Ana P. L. Batista, Universidade de São Paulo Departamento de Química Fundamental do Instituo de Química da São Paulo SP CEP 05508-000 Brazil
Peter Hammer, Universidade Estadual Paulista Departamento de Fisco-Química do Instituto de Química da CP 355 Araraquara SP 14800-900 Brazil
Gustavo H. P. Luz, Universidade Federal de Lavras Departamento de Química da CP 3037 Lavras MG 37200-000 Brazil
Teodorico C. Ramalho, Universidade Federal de Lavras Departamento de Química da CP 3037 Lavras MG 37200-000 Brazil
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