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Nanomaterials in the Environment
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:34:14
Abstract
The lecture provides an overview on the behavior and effects of engineered nanomaterials in the environment. The course will cover definitions, analysis, fate in technical and natural systems, effects (nano-ecotoxicology) and environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials. In addition, microplastics as an additional particulate contaminant will also be covered.
Objective
- Successful application of knowledge gained in the traditional disciplines of environmental sciences (e.g. biogeochemistry, environmental chemistry) to elucidate nanomaterial fate and behavior in the environment - Identify key parameters of nanomaterials that potentially influence their environmental fate and behavior - Get acquainted with the most common analytical tools for the quantification of nanomaterials in the environment - Critical assessment of current state of research in this juvenile field, including the sometimes controversial literature data
Content
Topics - Definitions; nano-effects; engineered, natural and incidental nanoparticles - Sources and release; Material flow modeling - Analysis in environmental samples - Fate in technical systems: water treatment, waste incineration - Fate in the environment: water and soil - Effects: nano-ecotoxicology - Environmental risk assessment - Life cycle assessment - Microplastics
Resources
Lecture Notes
Handouts will be provided
Literature
will be provided during lecture
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 20 minutes
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 15
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Nanomaterials in the Environment |
|
2 h weekly |