Reference materials

PLAWES

KALEH — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 09:29:04 +0000

PLAWES KALEH Wed, 12/20/2017 - 10:29

Microplastic Contamination in the Weser- Wadden Sea – National Park Model System: an Ecosystem-Wide Approach

In PLAWES, the modelling system of the German national park Weser-Wadden Sea was the first large European river basin that was investigated in detail regarding its microplastic pollution. PLAWES conducted a pioneering study of the microplastic contamination from the headwaters to the North Sea (northern Atlantic Ocean) that comprised an interdisciplinary and integrated ecosystem approach and accounted for various point sources (wastewater treatment plants, separation systems) and diffuse sources (drainage, atmosphere) of pollution. The results were integrated into a model for identifying primary transport mechanisms and accumulation zones. The research investigated the effects of microplastics on ecosystems in the Weser-Wadden Sea system by analysing the interaction of microplastic with pathogens in biofilm and aquatic invertebrates. Outcomes of this particularly ecologically relevant aspects were used to estimate the environmental risk of microplastics for the model system, and subsequently made it transferable to other systems. In addition, the results of the analysis became part of new teaching materials in order to provide a knowledge platform for teachers, students, and parents across Europe. PLAWES generated unique data about the effects of microplastics on a large European river basin and its environment. This is significant not only for policymakers and stakeholders but also as a fundament for science-based solutions to address the microplastics problem.

Main areas of work

Microplastics in the Weser-Wadden Sea
Model-based balancing of diffuse and point sources of microplastic entries
Interaction of microplastics with pathogens and biota
Training measures to raise awareness of plastic waste

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 0 Management, communication and dissemination

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Christian Laforsch, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, e-mail: christian.laforsch@uni-bayreuth.de

Project partner
AWI

Short description
WP 0 ensured the targeted and efficient support of the consortium with regard to project management, communication and dissemination. WP 0 coordinated both the public relations work and the exploitation of the results achieved. WP 0 continued to coordinate the cooperation of all project partners and was therefore in close contact with all project partners. WP 0 coordinated the harmonisation with the joint research project MicroCatch_Balt with regard to sampling and processing, modelling, public relations, and data storage as well as communication with the other projects.

WP 1 Microplastics in the Weser-Wadden Sea model system

Contact person
Dr. Gunnar Gerdts, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade, 27498 Helgoland, e-mail: gunnar.gerdts@awi.de

Project partner
UBT, UOld

Short description
The aim of WP 1 was to investigate the entire Weser river system into coastal waters with regard to microplastic pollution. The final determination of the exact sampling points was carried out taking into account the real data required for RAUMISmGROWA- MePhos and "Tidal Model" (WP 3). The entire Weser including the Lower Weser and the Wadden Sea was investigated with regard to exposure to microplastic. Two campaigns were carried out at different seasons with different water conditions on the Weser.

WP 2 Entry points – point sources and diffuse entry

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Andreas Held, University of Bayreuth, BayCEER; second affiliation: Technical University of Berlin, Department of Environmental Chemistry and Air Pollution Control, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, e-mail: held@tu-berlin.de

Project partner
AWI

Short description
The aim of WP 2 was an exemplary consideration of the input paths for microplastics by investigation of important point sources such as wastewater treatment plants and separation water sewer systems as well as the diffuse input from drains and atmosphere. For this purpose, selected sampling points in the Weser river basin were characterised taking into account different landscape areas and land use types. The focus lay on quantifying the entry points of microplastics. Sampling was synchronised with the campaigns at the Weser.

WP 3 Model-based accounting of diffuse and point-shaped MP entries

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Frank Wendland, Jülich Research Centre IBG-3, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52428 Jülich, e-mail: f.wendland@fz-juelich.de

Project partner
TI, NLWKN

Short description
The aim was a spatially resolved quantification of the microplastic emissions from diffuse and point sources and the identification of spatial load centres and accumulation zones within the river basin and estuary. The microplastic entries were modelled from different types of diffuse entry points and point sources. The work was based on the models mGROWA, MEPhos, RAUMIS, as well as a transport modelling considering the estuarine hydro- and sediment dynamics. Within the framework of the project, the model chain was improved in a targeted manner according to microplastic entry modelling in the inland and the further distribution of the microplastics in the lower reaches, estuary and apron.

WP 4 Interaction of microplastic with pathogens and biota

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Jörg Oehlmann, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, e-mail: oehlmann@bio.uni-frankfurt.de

Project partner
AWI, UBT, UOld

Short description
In WP 4, the ecosystem effects of microplastic on the Weser-Wadden Sea model system were described on the basis of the two ecologically relevant aspects "Interaction with pathogens and antimicrobial resistance" and "Interaction with aquatic invertebrates".

Interaction with pathogens and antimicrobial resistance: Since biofilms are sites of increased genetic exchange and increased antimicrobial resistance occurs below wastewater treatment plants, plastics could not only contribute to the dispersion of pathogenic organisms, but also of resistance genes. The consequences of such a transfer were previously unknown. AWI therefore used molecular microbial source tracking techniques (DNA/RNA arrays for the detection of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, protozoa and virulence/resistance genes) to investigate plastic samples from the Weser region. Interaction with aquatic invertebrates: In order to generate exposure data, different mollusk species were applied in situ in the Weser, the tidal area and the Wadden Sea. Absorbed microplastic was examined in the digestive tract and in tissue samples and confirmed in parallel by pyrolysis-GC-MS and spectroscopic methods. Historical mussel samples (since 1986) from the Federal Environmental Specimen Bank (UBA) were examined using pyrolysis-GC-MS. The chronic toxicity of microplastic is characterised in laboratory experiments with mussels and worms. Different polymers were conditioned in situ and toxicologically characterised in chronic exposure experiments.

WP 5 Training measures to raise awareness of plastic waste

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Franz X. Bogner, University of Bayreuth, Didactics of Biology, Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, e-mail: franz.bogner@uni-bayreuth.de

Project partner
AWI, UOld

Short description
In addition to the ethical assessment skills of students, WP 5 incorporated existing individual environmental knowledge. Innovative teaching materials with a sound reference to everyday life were evaluated for a holistic understanding regarding the burden of plastics in the model system and disseminated via an Internet teaching/learning portal. Within the work package, UBT provided a handbook for teachers and "public relations workers".

Coordinator

Prof. Dr. Christian Laforsch
University of Bayreuth
Chair of Animal Ecology I / UBT
Universitätsstraße 30
95447 Bayreuth
Phone: +49 921 / 55-2651
e-mail: christian.laforsch@uni-bayreuth.de

Dr. Gunnar Gerdts
Alfred Wegener Institute
Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI)
Kurpromenade
27498 Helgoland
Phone: +49 4725 / 819-3245
e-mail: gunnar.gerdts@awi.de

Website

http://www.bayceer.uni-bayreuth.de/PLAWES/en/

Partner Institutions

Coast Research Centre at the Lower Saxony State Enterprise for Water Management, Coastal Protection and Nature Conservation / NLWKN

Jülich Research Centre / FZJ

Goethe University Frankfurt / GU

Johann Heinrich von Thünen Institute - Federal Research Institute for Rural Areas, Forestry and Fisheries / TI-LR

Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Institute of Chemistry and Biology of the Sea / UOld

Duration Period

September 2017

April 2021

Tags

Sewage

Methodology of analyses

Atmosphere

Benthos

Information and teaching materials

Infrared

Infraref spectroscopy

Sewage treatment plant

Sewage sludge

Municipality

Communication strategy

Combined sewar overflows

Prevention of plastics

Polyamide (PA)

Polyester

Polyethylene (PE)

High density polyethylene PE-HD

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

sampling

Sample purification

Pyrolysis GC

Raman microspectroscopy

Environmental sustainability

Scanning electron microscopy

Plasticiser

Project sheet

18_Projektblatt_PLAWES_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

Coordinator

MikroPlaTaS

KALEH — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 08:53:43 +0000

MikroPlaTas KALEH Wed, 12/20/2017 - 09:53

Microplastics in Dams and Reservoirs: Sedimentation, Spread, Effects

The spread of microplastics in rivers showed that along a given waterway there are sources as well as sinks. Thus, dams and reservoirs constitute important but until now hardly investigated parts of a water system that serve as examples for risk vs. usefulness of sedimentation of microplastics. Biofilms, which grow on microplastics, have a special significance for their transport and sedimentation. The goals of this project were (I) to identify and characterise microplastic in water and sediment, (II) to understand how biofilms form on plastic and how sedimentation occurs on these grown-over particles, (III) to record how microplastics affect and are taken up by individual organisms as well as by entire communities in model ecosystems, and (IV) to synthesise the scientific results and draft practical recommendations based on them. This synthesis emphasised identifying pathways to eliminate microplastics and to derive practical measures and risk assessments together with the project partners.

Main areas of work

Distribution and sedimentation of microplastics and fauna in situ
Characterisation of microplastics with regard to biofilm communities and sedimentation mechanisms
Direct effects of microplastic on invertebrate species and complex biocenoses
Influence of plastics on the food quality of biofilms for Grazer

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 1 Survey plastics and meio- and microfauna in dams and reservoirs

Contact person
PD Dr. Katrin Wendt-Potthoff, UFZ, Department of Lake Research, Brückstraße 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, e-mail: katrin.wendt-potthoff@ufz.de

Project partner
WWU, Bielefeld University

Short description
The aim was to estimate the contamination of various dammed waters with microplastics, to identify the relevant polymers and to determine the respective typical macro- and meiofauna. Different service water reservoirs (e.g. Bautzen in Saxony) as well as the dammed Ems, the Lippe and the former Rieselfelder Münster in North Rhine-Westphalia were adhesively investigated.

WP 2 In situ experiments on sedimentation rates and settlement

Contact person
PD Dr. Katrin Wendt-Potthoff, UFZ, Department of Lake Research, Brückstraße 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, e-mail: katrin.wendt-potthoff@ufz.de

Project partner
WWU, Bielefeld University

Short description
The aim was to determine field sedimentation rates in the course of a year with regard to total mass and microplastics. For this purpose, sediment traps were applied to the deepest points of the waters, at minimum, and evaluated monthly with regard to the total mass of plastics and organisms of the meiofauna. As a result, a relationship is established between plastic load in the water column, total sedimentation rate and plastic sedimentation rate.

WP 3 Characterisation of biofilms on different polymers

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Bodo Philipp, University of Münster, Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Corrensstraße 3, 48149 Münster, e-mail: bodo.philipp@uni-muenster.de

Project partner
UFZ, UP, Bielefeld University

Short description
In this work package, the microbial communities on plastic particles were examined with regard to taxonomic composition and function in order to derive hypotheses on processes at the sites that can be checked in WPs 4 – 6. Particular attention was paid to whether there is a characteristic microflora on microplastic particles and whether individual types of plastic differ. Furthermore, mechanisms of biofilm formation on microplastic particles were explained. Cultivation-dependent and -independent investigations were carried out with samples from WP 1 and WP 2 and later with mesocosmic samples (WP 5). A collection of strains is to be generated in the first project year so that it can be used for WP 5 and WP 6.

WP 4 Influence of biofilm colonisation, light and redox processes on microplastic sedimentation

Contact person
PD Dr. Katrin Wendt-Potthoff, UFZ, Department of Lake Research, Brückstraße 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, e-mail:katrin.wendt-potthoff@ufz.de

Project partner
WWU, Bielefeld University

Short description
Experiments under controlled conditions determined how light and redox ratios (concentration of O2 and iron) influence the sedimentation of plastic particles either directly or by controlling colonisation. The influence of these factors on sedimentation was studied to simulate the transition from pelagic to benthic habitat. To what extent light or darkness and oxic or anoxic conditions per se, but also their change, can control the sinking behaviour of plastic particles was determined.

WP 5 Direct effect of plastic particles on invertebrates

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Walter Traunspurger, Bielefeld University, Department of Animal Ecology, Konsequenz 45, 33615 Bielefeld, e-mail: traunspurger@uni-bielefeld.de

Project partner
WWU, UP, Ecossa, Mesocosm

Short description
The uptake and effect of microplastics for aquatic organisms was tested in experimental systems (single-species to model ecosystems) to assess risks for pelagic and benthic fauna. A harmful effect in the organism requires an uptake into the body, either through the ingestion of the particles themselves or through transfer in the food chain (biomagnification). In case of harmful effects, indirect effects (top-down, bottom-up) can occur and thus affect organisms not directly affected by microplastic. In order to evaluate the food web as fully as possible, experiments with increasing ecological complexity and relevance were carried out for pelagic and benthic invertebrates to elucidate the effect on organisms, populations and communities and to reduce the interpretation gap between laboratory and field results.

WP 6 Influence of plastics on the food quality of biofilm for meio and macro grazers

Contact person
Dr. Friederike Gabel, University of Münster, Institute of Landscape Ecology, Heisenbergstraße 2, 48149 Münster, e-mail: gabelf@uni-muenster.de

Project partner
UP, Bielefeld University, UFZ

Short description
The aim of this WP was to identify indirect effects of microplastic on meio and macrofauna organisms by influencing the nutritional basis. Biofilms (especially bacteria, fungi, protozoa) form an important food basis for meio and macrofauna in waters. The quality of these biofilms can therefore have a significant influence on the composition and vitality of the organisms grazing them. For grazing experiments, macro invertebrates were offered different overgrown plastic strips for grazing. Ingestion and excretion rates, growth and, in the case of snails, the reproduction of organisms were investigated.

WP 7 Coordination, public relations, knowledge transfer

Contact person
Dr. Friederike Gabel, University of Münster, Institute of Landscape Ecology, Heisenbergstraße 2, 48149 Münster, e-mail: gabelf@uni-muenster.de

PD Dr. Katrin Wendt-Potthoff, UFZ, Department of Lake Research, Brückstraße 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, e-mail: katrin.wendt-potthoff@ufz.de

Project partner

UP, Bielefeld University, Ecossa, Mesocosm

Short description
The aim was to communicate project results to specific target groups both within the consortium and to the general public (children, students, authorities and scientists). The practical partners (The State Reservoir Administration of Saxony, Lower Water and Landscape Authority of the City of Hamm, Academy of nature and Environmental Protection NRW) played an important role here. The multiplier effect of the addressed target groups promoted the project results and the topic of plastics in the environment and this sensitisation created a broader acceptance for the recommendations for action that arose from the research focus.

Coordinator

PD Dr. Katrin Wendt-Potthoff
Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ,
Department of Lake Research
Brückstraße 3a
39114 Magdeburg
Phone: +49 391 8109810
e-mail: katrin.wendt-potthoff@ufz.de

Website

https://www.uni-muenster.de/Mikroplatas/en/index.html

Partner Institutions

University of Münster / WWU

University of Potsdam / UP

Bielefeld University

Ecossa

Institute for Water Protection Mesocosm GmbH

Duration Period

January 2018

September 2021

Tags

Information and teaching materials

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Project sheet

16_Projektblatt_MicroPlaTas_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

Coordinator

EmiStop

KALEH — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 16:41:32 +0000

EmiStop KALEH Tue, 12/19/2017 - 17:41

Identification of Industrial Plastic Emissions by Means of Innovative Detection Methods and Technology Development to Prevent the Input into the Environment via the Wastewater Pathway

This project systematically detected emissions of plastics into wastewater from relevant industries. Emissions levels were analysed along all points of the value chain (production, transport, processing, and cleaning of synthetic materials).

The goal was to select wastewater treatment technologies that optimise the reduction of emissions of plastics for the respective value chain. The project evaluated existing technologies for separating particles, investigated deposition rates, and developed approaches for technical optimisation. Optimisation also includes technological developments such as flocculants. Researchers conducted tests in both laboratory and pilot project settings – selected large scale technical wastewater treatment plants were investigated at industrial facilities.

Due to the existing analytical uncertainties, the following detection methods were used to evaluate the existing and developed technologies:

Dynamic differential calometry for qualification and quantification (concentrations)
Raman spectroscopy for qualification and quantification (particle numbers)
Correlations of the plastic concentrations to routine water chemical analyses (for a retrospective estimation of the plastic loads)
Tracer test with magnetic plastic particles (simple and reliable quantification in large dilutions) for balancing in laboratory and pilot tests

Apart from the technical aspects, the focus of this project was also on socio-economic aspects. Thus, measures to prevent economic losses and retain value were reviewed together with the associated industrial enterprises and evaluated with partners from the scientific community and other interest groups.

Main areas of work

Standardisation of sampling and sample preparation for industrial wastewater (in alignment with Plastik-Net and other joint research projects)
Quantitative and qualitative measurement of plastic concentrations in industrial wastewater using Raman spectroscopy and dynamic differential calorimetry
Extended data collection at the sampled industrial waste water treatment plants for the derivation of the plastic loads and testing of a correlation between the measurement results and routine water chemical analyses
Development of magnetic plastic particles in the micrometre range with the physical properties of relevant types of plastic
Development of a tracer test with magnetic plastic particles
Assessment of technologies for particle separation with regard to the retention of (micro-) plastic particles
Optimisation of particle separation technologies
Development of flocculants for the targeted improvement of the retention of individual types of plastics and their mixtures
Delphi surveys of industry and sector associations as well as of politics and science to identify perceived risks and obstacles as well as opportunities and the willingness to participate
Multi-criteria analysis for the development of weighted, ecological and socio-economic criteria for the sustainability assessment of the project results

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 1 Development of analytical methods for plastic particles

Contact persons
Prof. Dr. Jutta Kerpen, RheinMain University, Institute for Environmental and Process Engineering, Department of Wastewater Treatment, Am Brückweg 26, 65428 Rüsselsheim, e-mail: jutta.kerpen@hs-rm.de

Prof. Dr. Susanne Lackner, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: s.lackner@iwar.tu-darmstadt.de

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Markus Engelhart, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Technology, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: m.engelhart@iwar.tudarmstadt.de

Project partner
EnviroChemie

Short description
A routinely applicable sampling and sample preparation procedure were developed in order to create a uniform and comparable database for industrial wastewater. For the subsequent qualification and quantification of microplastics in (industrial) wastewater samples, the methods of dynamic differential calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy were adapted to industrial wastewater. The respective analysis results were compared with standardised routine measurements and operational self-analysis to determine correlations.

WP 2 Tracer test

Contact persons
Prof. Dr. Susanne Lackner, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: s.lackner@iwar.tu-darmstadt.de

Dr. Kyriakos Eslahian, BS-Partikel GmbH, Nestléstr. 41, 55120 Mainz, e-mail: eslahian@bs-partikel.de

Short description
In order to balance individual process technologies for plastic particle retention in real water matrices, a method for the quantification of magnetic plastic particles by means of magnetic susceptibility scales was established. For this purpose, particles in the size range from 1 μm to 300 μm were synthesised with the greatest possible magnetic susceptibility, which imitate the morphologies and chemical properties of environmental plastic particles.

Furthermore, a continuous method for the production of these particles was established in order to ensure the best possible reproducibility and scalability for subsequent applications.

WP 3 Identification of industrial entry points

Prof. Dr. Susanne Lackner, Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering, Franziska-Braun-Straße 7, 64287 Darmstadt, e-mail: s.lackner@iwar.tu-darmstadt.de

Project partner
EnviroChemie, inter 3

Short description
The entry points of microplastics from industrial wastewater into surface waters were determined by uniform characterisation and quantification of the plastic emissions of individual industrial plants. The evaluation of plastic emissions on the basis of mass flows, variations and production information with key figure system and balance tools, hotspots and temporal variations of the particle input were identified.

WP 4 Balancing of technical systems

Contact persons

Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Project partner

TU-AW, inter3, HSRM

Short description
In laboratory and pilot tests, various process techniques (filtration in various filter units such as membrane plants, double-layer filters, cloth filters; flocculation in combination with filtration, flotation or sedimentation) were evaluated with regard to plastic particle removal. For this purpose, the tracer particles developed in WP 2 were used, which enable the use of synthetic and real industrial waste water. Furthermore, the existing industrial process technology was evaluated at different industrial sites and optimised with regard to the separation of plastic particles.

WP 5 Optimisation of plastic retention

Contact persons
Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Project partner
TU-AW

Short description
Based on the results of WP 4, the pilot plants were adapted by specific design changes (e.g. flow control, sludge removal, conveyor technology) and the success of these optimisations was evaluated in further balancing experiments. For the industries considered, in addition to constructive optimisation of process engineering, production-integrated measures to reduce plastic emissions were derived. The production information collected in WP 3 served as the basis for this.

WP 6 Development of flocculants for plastics sorts

Contact persons
Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Project partner
TU-AT, TU-AW

Short description
In experiments with beakers, individual polymers for the targeted flocculation of particles of different types of plastic in the size range from 10 to 300 μm were tested. The results were then used to test specific blends of polymers to produce the most stable flakes of particles of individual plastic types. With these results, the tests and developments were extended to mixtures of different types of plastics.

The laboratory test results were then supplemented by pilot tests using tracer particles developed in WP 2.

WP 7 Risk and potential analysis

Contact person
Dipl.-Ing. Wolf Raber, inter 3 GmbH - Institute for Resource Management, Otto-Suhr-Allee 59, 10585 Berlin, e-mail: raber@inter3.de

Project partner
TU-AT, TU-AW, EnviroChemie, HSRM, BS-Partikel

Short description
To maximise the broad application of the EmiStop optimisation approaches and avoidance strategies, the risks and potentials were identified from the perspective of the key actors, evaluated and fed into the project at an early degree of technology maturity. Furthermore, an expert-supported set of sociopolitical, economic, and ecological evaluation criteria and a meaningful set of indicators were derived in order to analyse and evaluate the multicriterial optimisation approaches and avoidance strategies and in a next step measures for implementation and diffusion.

WP 8 Management and communication

Contact persons
Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter, EnviroChemie GmbH, F&E, In den Leppsteinswiesen 9, 64380 Rossdorf, e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com Dr. Anja Steglich, inter 3 GmbH - Institute for Resource Management, 10585 Berlin, e-mail: steglich@inter3.de

Project partner
TU-AT, TU-AW, HSRM, BS-Partikel

Short description
In order to disseminate and implement the project results, industrial companies were actively involved and dialogue is carried out with experts from relevant industry associations (e.g. PlasticsEurope e.V., IK Industrievereinigung Plastikverpackungen e.V., GKV Gesamtverband Plastikverarbeitende Industrie e.V.). The collaboration was commissioned to a) develop the results into a consensual overall perspective, b) prepare these into action-oriented and implementable guidelines and c) make them available via established channels and multipliers, e.g. the Responsible Care Initiative of the chemical industry.

Coordinator

Dr.-Ing. Eva Bitter
EnviroChemie GmbH
In den Leppsteinswiesen 9
64380 Rossdorf
Phone: +49 6154-6998-57
e-mail: eva.bitter@envirochemie.com

Website

http://www.emistop.de/page8.html

Partner Institutions

Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Engineering

Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Department of Wastewater Technology

RheinMain University, Institute for Environmental and Process Engineering / HSRM

inter 3 GmbH-Institute for Resource Management

BS-Partikel GmbH

Duration Period

January 2018

December 2020

Tags

Sewage

Methodology of analyses

Sewage treatment plant

Environmental accounting

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Polymer analysis

Polypropylene (PP)

Polystyrene (PS)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Project sheet

15_Projektblatt_EmiStop_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

Coordinator

SubμTrack

KALEH — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 15:21:00 +0000

SubμTrack KALEH Tue, 12/19/2017 - 16:21

Tracking of (Sub)Microplastics of Different Identities - Innovative Analysis Tools for Toxicological and Process-engineering Evaluation

The methods currently available for the analysis of microplastics in environmental matrices were primarily designed for particles in the size range of 1 μm to 5 mm. Smaller particles below 1 μm were hardly detected. However in contrast to larger particles, these are able to enter cells and have a higher potential for adsorption of pollutants due to their relatively larger surface. SubμTrack focuses on plastic particles between 50 nm and 100 μm, because of their higher ecotoxicological relevance. For this purpose, the previously available detection range was extended and new methods for sampling, sample preparation, and analysis were developed. Another focus of the project were the possible effects of submicroplastic particles on the aquatic environment and on human health. The results of these studies were complemented by an assessment of the social, political and legal dimensions of plastic emission into the environment. By analysing the perception of the problem and possible strategies for action, foundations were laid for active processes of social change. The results were also examined regarding to their implementation in legislation, standardisation, and their relevance for voluntary actions.

Main areas of work

Characterisation of particles and comparison with reference materials
Impact on the aquatic environment and human health
Social, political and legal dimensions of plastic emission into the environment

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 0 Organisation, coordination and public relations

Contact persons
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg E. Drewes, Technical University of Munich, Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, e-mail: j.drewes@tum.de

Project partner
TUM-IWC, TUM-LTI, TUM-LAS, TUM-MCTS, IGOE, LfU, UBA, IUTA, Postnova Analytics GmbH, BS-Partikel GmbH

Short description
In addition to the coordination of results and products within the consortium, WP 0 also included the coordination of activities with partners outside the project. The goal was the sustainable implementation of the analytical techniques, the results and the instructions for action of harmonised strategies in close cooperation with national and international key institutions. The public relations work was mainly coordinated by TUM-SWW and effectively implemented by partners of different orientations.

WP 1 Selection and production of reference particles

Contact persons
Dr. Carmen Nickel, Dr. Jochen Türk, Institute of Energy and Environmental Technology e. V. (IUTA), Bliersheimer Str. 58- 60, 47229 Duisburg, e-mail: nickel@iuta.de; tuerk@iuta.de

Project partner
LfU, BS-Partikel GmbH

Short description
Together with the partners of BS-Partikel and the leaders of the experimental WPs 2 – 5 the required reference particles were identified. In particular, the size, material, marking and the availability of the particles played an important role. The reference particles were selected during the initial phase of the project in order to have enough time to fabricate or purchase the particles at the beginning of the experiments. The project partners BS-Partikel and IUTA then provided the corresponding particles.

WP 2 Comprehensive analysis of microplastic particles

Contact persons
Prof. Dr. Martin Elsner, Dr. Natalia P. Ivleva, Technical University of Munich, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Institute of Hydrochemistry, Marchionistrasse 17, 81377 Munich, e-mail: natalia.ivleva@ch.tum.de

Project partner
Postnova Analytics GmbH, BS-Partikel GmbH, TUMSWW, TUM-LTI, LfU, IUTA

Short description
Innovative and proven analytical detection methods (including sampling, preparation, identification and quantification) for microplastics (1 μm – 5 mm) were determined and tested with reference materials in the submicron range. The most successful techniques of the MiWa project running since 2016 serve as a starting point for this; standard methods from this project were integrated and compared. Direct contact to actors of the MiWa project was guaranteed by partners of the consortium (TUM-IWC and UBA).

WP 3 Studies on aging, adsorption and desorption of organic trace substances on reference particles

Contact persons
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg E. Drewes, Technische Universität München, Lehrstuhl für Siedlungswasserwirtschaft, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, e-mail: j.drewes@tum.de

Project partner
LfU

Short description
The particles used in the method validation are subjected to systematic aging processes and biofilm growth. Furthermore, these particles and especially their (resulting) different surfaces were examined regarding their adsorption or desorption characteristics of organic molecules. For this analysis, adsorption and desorption kinetics, among other things, were investigated. This was done by applying TD-(Pyrolysis)-GC-MS and LC-MS/MS. Experiments with the aged particles were carried out in so-called batch approaches, but also in laboratory wastewater treatment plants operated at the LfU. All samples were also stored in the biological systems of WP 5 if required.

WP 4 Investigations on entry points and process-related evaluation

Contact person
Dr. Korbinian Freier, Bavarian State Office for the Environment, Demollstraße 31, 82407 Wielenbach, e-mail:korbinian.freier@lfu.bayern.de

Project partner
TUM-SWW, IUTA

Short description
Using the methods developed and validated in WP 2, real scenarios were first simulated with reference particles in laboratory wastewater treatment plants at the partner LfU to analyse the fate of the particles within the system. Parallel to this, investigations were carried out at various measuring points in real wastewater treatment plants. Water samples were certified by IUTA for micropollutants. The aim was to extend the existing sampling technologies to micropollutants. Finally, together with the other partners of the project and based on the expected results, a process-related evaluation was carried out.

WP 5 Impact on aquatic environment and human health

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Michael Pfaffl, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Chair of Animal Physiology and Immunology, Weihenstephaner Berg 3, 85354 Freising, e-mail: michael.pfaffl@wzw.tum.de

Project partner
TAM-LAS, IGOE

Short description
Potential negative effects of submicroparticles on different biological organisational levels were investigated and compared to obtain a comprehensive ecotoxicological evaluation. This includes the use of model systems in vivo to determine effects on microbial diversity, communities and trophic structures and functions as well as to identify stress reactions on a higher organismic level. In vitro models extended this approach for the determination of effects on the cellular and molecular level. Based on this a mechanistic understanding of particle-induced stress reactions was created and potential effects on human health were derived.

WP 6 Social, political and legal dimensions

Contact person
Prof. Dr. Ruth Müller, Technical University of Munich, Assistant Professorship of Science and Technology Policy, Augustenstraße 46, 80333 Munich, e-mail: ruth.mueller@tum.de

Project partner
UBA

Short description
At TUM-MCTS current problem perceptions and coping strategies in society and politics with regard to plastic particles in the environment were analysed by means of qualitative social scientific methods. The focus lay on the perception of the specific ecotoxicological relevance of submicroparticles. UBA carried out a screening of the relevant legal acts at national, European and intercontinental levels. The consideration goes beyond the pure media reference (water, soil and air) and the associated possible transport paths. In particular, the legally undefined range between nano- (limit: 100 nm) and microplastics (frequently stated limit: 1 μm) is of primary interest.

Coordinator

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg E. Drewes
Technical University of Munich,
Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering / TUM-SWW
Am Coulombwall 3
85748 Garching
Phone: +49 89 2891 3701 bzw. -3718
e-mail: jdrewes@tum.de

Website

https://www.wasser.tum.de/en/ submuetrack/startseite/

Partner Institutions

Technical University of Munich

Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry / TUM-IWC

Chair of Animal Physiology and Immunology/ TUM-LTI

Chair of Aquatic Systems Biology / TUM-LAS

Assistant Professorship of Science and Technology Policy / TUM-MCTS

Helmholtz Centre Munich, Institute of Groundwater Ecology / IGOE

Bavarian State Office for the Environment / LfU

Federal Environmental Agency / UBA

Institute of Energy and Environmental Technology e. V. / IUTA

Postnova Analytics GmbH

BS-Partikel GmbH

Duration Period

September 2017

June 2021

Tags

Sewage

Adsorption

Methodology of analyses

Infraref spectroscopy

Sewage treatment plant

in vitro test systems

Raman microspectroscopy

Nano plastics

Scanning electron microscopy

Field flow fractionation

Project sheet

09_Projektblatt_SubµTrack_ENG_2018.pdf

Koordinator label

Coordinator

RUSEKU

KALEH — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 15:00:50 +0000

RUSEKU KALEH Tue, 12/19/2017 - 16:00

Representative Investigation Strategies for an Integrative System Approach to Specific Emissions of Plastics into the Environment

This project developed representative investigation methods and strategies for an integrative system understanding of relevant plastic entry paths into the environmental compartment water. The developed sampling methods were evaluated in terms of their concentration concept, their local use, their sampling throughput, and their selectivity for particles of different properties, sizes, and shapes. For this purpose, defined microplastic particles were produced with these varying characteristics and tested for representative recovery of sampling procedures in the laboratory and in semi-industrial simulation facilities. The methods developed in this way were translated into specific investigation strategies, adapted - with the aid of supporting simulation methods - and then applied to real environmental areas for different transport paths in the urban wastewater system. In addition to the academic understanding of microplastic entry points, causes and pathways, market-ready methods for efficient microplastic sampling were developed in cooperation with the companies involved. These methods form a basis for evaluation by legislators and for standardisation.

Main areas of work

Development of efficient, integrative and representative research methods and strategies (accuracy, repeatability, transferability) for the determination of relevant microplastic contents over the different areas of the water cycle
Establishment of goal-oriented, analytical methods for the detection of microplastic particles according to practical aspects
Simulations of the dynamics of particles in water bodies in semi-industrial laboratory tests
Further development of sampling to quantify the microplastic volume and transport in the real, urban waste water system for the waste water fractions: precipitation water, domestic waste water, and industrial waste water
Generation of a simulation code for the dynamics of microplastic particles in waters

Arbeitspakete

Work packages

WP 1 Production of microplastics and microplastic suspensions

Contact person
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Gehde, Technische Universität Chemnitz, Institute for Materials Handling and Plastics, Reichenhainer Straße 70, 09126 Chemnitz, e-mail: michael.gehde@mb.tu-chemnitz.de

Project partner
BAM, TUB, PlasticsEurope

Short description
First, defined, heterogeneous microplastic mixtures were developed for the environmental testing in water and soil. After the initial use of existing materials (e.g. particles from cryogenic grinding, commercial products), plants for the realistic and defined production of microplastic particles were set up during the project period: UV degradation systems for thin-walled, defined materials, dry or aqueous mechanical abrasion systems for fibres from textile applications, and abrasion simulation systems for the generation of spherical particles. The other project partners contributed to the characterisation of these model materials by applying their analytical methods.

WP 2 Development of sampling methods

Contact person
Dr. Claus Gerhard Bannick, Federal Environmental Agency, Corrensplatz 1, 14195 Berlin, e-mail: claus-gerhard.bannick@uba.de

Project partner
UGT, CSP, SMB, TUK, GEA, GKD, SVEI

Short description
In WP 2, efficient, reliable and reproducible sampling methods and strategies were developed for the microplastic model particles of different varieties, densities, sizes and shapes in the stream simulation facility at UBA. Their usability and reproducibility was also investigated for routine operation and the methods will be evaluated based on the recovery rates of experiments. The individual project partners optimised their analytical procedures: from the use of conventional flow-through centrifuges to the cascade filtration system, suspended matter traps, hydrodynamic modelling, and lysimeter tests to the control of possible input into groundwater.

WP 3 Simulations

Contact person
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Manhart, Technical University of Munich, Associate Professorship of Hydromechanics, Arcisstraße 21, 80333 München, e-mail: m.manhart@bv.tum.de

Project partner
KMT

Short description
The methodological developments from WP 2 were supported by accompanying simulations in WP 3. These simulations resulted in a description of the vertical distributions of spheroids at different particle sizes and shapes in a turbulent surface water or stream simulation facility. The models and results were integrated into a software that simulates geometrically complex, application-oriented cases. A sampling strategy was derived from the simulation results. Relevant material parameters of the particles such as size distribution, real density or surface properties from WP 1 as well as from partners from WP 5 were included.

WP 4 Sampling of real environmental compartment

Contact person
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Heidrun Steinmetz, Technical University of Kaiserslautern, Institute of Water - Infrastructure - Resources, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 14, 67663 Kaiserslautern, e-mail: heidrun.steinmetz@bauing.uni-kl.de

Project partner
UBA, TUM, KMT

Short description
The main focus of WP 4 were the quantification of the microplastic volume and transport in the real, urban wastewater system for the wastewater and precipitation water, domestic wastewater (partial flows grey and black water), industrial wastewater, and mixed wastewater. The findings from the sampling in WP 2 were implemented and improved. Further work focused on sample preparation and preservation to evaluate the comparability of different sampling strategies. The investigations focused on the quantities and the importance of microplastic volumes in the individual entry points of the urban wastewater system into the water bodies.

WP 5 Analytics

Contact person
Dr. Ulrike Braun, Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), Division 5.3 Mechanics of Polymers, Unter den Eichen 87, 12205 Berlin, e-mail: ulrike.braun@bam.de

Project partner
CSP, TUM, FHI

Short description
The analytics used in the individual work packages were based on the requirements for sample preparation and analytical procedures as well as on the necessary information to be generated, not on the general feasibility. WP 5 served the intensive exchange of results generated with complementary analytical methods. In addition, the respective methods, supported by the results of the other project partners, were further refined and adapted.

Case studies

As a real environmental simulation, individual components of the wastewater system of the city of Kaiserslautern were investigated. In concrete terms, precipitation water was sampled here on settlement and traffic areas as well as domestic and industrial wastewater.

In addition, air sampling was also carried out at the limits of comparable sampling sites at locations in Berlin and in the Halle/Leipzig area. The planned lysimeter tests were carried out in Berlin and thus allow an assessment of groundwater recharge in Berlin and Brandenburg.

Coordinator

Dr. Ulrike Braun
Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing / BAM
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
Phone: +49 30 8104-4317
e-mail: ulrike.braun@bam.de

Website

https://netzwerke.bam.de/ruseku

Partner Institutions

Federal Environmental Agency / UBA

Technical University of Chemnitz / TUC

Fraunhofer Centre for Silicon Photovoltaics / CSP

Technical University of Kaiserslautern / TUK

Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society / FHI

Technical University of Munich / TUM

Technical University of Berlin / TUB

SmartMembranes GmbH / SMB

Kreuzinger und Manhart Turbulenz GmbH / KMT