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Project
Develop microplastic extraction method from soil
Microplastic (MP) (1 µm – 5 mm) are emerging pollutant due to their ubiquitous occurrence and persistence in the environment, as well as their toxicity to living beings. Polymer-coated fertiliser (PCF) consists of a soluble mineral fertiliser core surrounded by a layer of polymer coating (polyurethane, polyester, alkyd, etc.).
Background
PCF is a source of primary MP in soil that has gained more attention due to a recent proposal of restriction on intentionally added MP in products from European Chemical Agency (ECHA). Although soil is recognized as a major sink of MP, there were limited studies on MP in soil compare to other environmental compartment partly due to the lack of a standardized and reliable analytical method. The thesis aim is to develop and testing microplastic extraction method from soil, with the focus on PCF-derived MP.
Used skills
- Literature review to understand and develop microplastic extraction method from soil, as well as targeted PCF-derived MP;
- Laboratory work to validate the extraction method with appropriate analysis techniques (Microscope/Fourier-transformed Infrared/Nile-red dye);
- Laboratory work to refine extraction method where possible;
- Data processing and writing.
Requirements
- Required courses for MSc thesis Soil Chemistry and Chemical Soil Quality;
- Good laboratory skills;
- Keen interest to work with microplastic.