Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/B/S/2002/00544

The relationship between colloid and particle size and surface area: understanding the mechanisms of contaminant binding.

Principal Investigator:: Professor J Lead, University of Birmingham, Sch of Geography, Earth & Env Sciences
Co-Investigator:: Professor EP Achterberg, University of Southampton, Sch of Ocean and Earth Science
Co-Investigator:: Professor GE Millward, University of Plymouth, Sch of Geog Earth & Environ Sciences
Grant held at:: University of Birmingham, Sch of Geography, Earth & Env Sciences

Abstract:: Pollutant speciation in natural waters is recognised as important in toxicity and transport. In addition, speciation is known to be dominated by binding to colloidal material, with smaller material being more important in binding. A fundamental assumption in understanding the mechanisms of colloidal behaviour is that there is an inverse relationship between size and surface area. Small colloids are thus more important in metal binding because the larger surface area presents a larger number of binding groups to the solution phase. However, this assumption has never been tested. We propose to size-fractionate colloidal and particulate material from a number of different aquatic sources and measure surface area of the fractions by a variety of techniques. In addition, we will investigate the effect of pH and organic carbon on surface area and measure trace metal (cu, Cd) concentrations in the size fractions.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £26,550

Total - T&S	Total - Staff	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs	Total - Equipment
£2,145	£10,284	£3,280	£4,731	£6,110

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