Environmental Chemistry Commons^™

Stabilization Of Pfas-Contaminated Soil With Sewage Sludge- And Wood-Based Biochar Sorbents, Erlend Sørmo, Clara Benedikte Mader Lade, Julie Zhang, Alexandros G. Asimakopoulos, Geir Wold Åsli, Michel Hubert, Aleksandar I. Goranov, Hans Peter H. Arp, Gerard Cornelissen

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

Sustainable and effective remediation technologies for the treatment of soil contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are greatly needed. This study investigated the effects of waste-based biochars on the leaching of PFAS from a sandy soil with a low total organic carbon content (TOC) of 0.57 ± 0.04% impacted by PFAS from aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) dispersed at a former fire-fighting facility. Six different biochars (pyrolyzed at 700–900°C) were tested, made from clean wood chips (CWC), waste timber (WT), activated waste timber (aWT), two digested sewage sludges (DSS-1 and DSS-2) and de-watered raw sewage sludge (DWSS). Up-flow column …

Unraveling Sources Of Cyanate In The Marine Environment: Insights From Cyanate Distributions And Production During The Photochemical Degradation Of Dissolved Organic Matter, Rui Wang, Jihua Liu, Yongle Xu, Li Liu, Kenneth Mopper

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

Cyanate is a nitrogen and energy source for diverse marine microorganisms, playing important roles in the nitrogen cycle. Despite the extensive research on cyanate utilization, the sources of this nitrogen compound remain largely enigmatic. To unravel the sources of cyanate, distributions and production of cyanate during photochemical degradation of natural dissolved organic matter (DOM) were investigated across various environments, including freshwater, estuarine, coastal areas in Florida, and the continental and slope regions of the North American mid-Atlantic Ocean (NATL). Cyanate production was also examined during the photochemical degradation of exudates from a typical strain of Synechococcus, an important phytoplankton …

Potentially Massive And Global Non-Pyrogenic Production Of Condensed "Black" Carbon Through Biomass Oxidation, Aleksandar I. Goranov, Hongmei Chen, Jianshu Duan, Satish C. B. Myneni, Patrick G. Hatcher

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

With the increased occurrences of wildfires worldwide, there has been an increase in scientific interest surrounding the chemistry of fire-derived "black" carbon (BC). Traditionally, wildfire research has assumed that condensed aromatic carbon (ConAC) is exclusively produced via combustion, and thus, ConAC is equated to BC. However, the lack of correlations between ConAC in soils or rivers and wildfire history suggests that ConAC may be produced non-pyrogenically. Here, we show quantitative evidence that this occurs during the oxidation of biomass with environmentally ubiquitous hydroxyl radicals. Pine wood boards exposed to iron nails and natural weather conditions for 12 years yielded a …

Assessing The Spatiotemporal Variability Of Dissolved Organic Matter Fluorescence Composition In The Lake George, Ny Watershed, Aleksandar I. Goranov, Mark W. Swinton, David A. Winkler, Jeremy L. Farrell, Sandra A. Nierzwicki-Bauer, Sasha Wagner

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

Lake George (LG) is a temperate, oligotrophic, medium-sized lake (114 km²) located in northeastern New York State (U.S.). Lakes are highly understudied environments where extensive dissolved organic matter (DOM) processing occurs. With this study we establish the foundation for researching the organic biogeochemistry of the LG watershed, in particular, the numerous tributaries flowing into the lake. Collected were 213 samples from 64 tributaries and 12 lake locations. Some of the tributaries had unique wastewater, agricultural, or wetland influences. We employed fluorescence spectroscopy, a common biogeochemical technique, to characterize the fluorescent DOM (FDOM) component. We developed a parallel factor …

Reducing Short-Chain Pfas Levels In California Water Supplies, Manu Prabandham

Pomona Senior Theses

This thesis proposes twelve specific policies based on precedents set by prior regulation of persistent organic pollutants (such as PCBs), the costs and benefits of short-chain PFAS, technologies available to remove and destroy short-chain PFAS, and the roles and limitations of California’s regulatory institutions. The twelve policies are chosen to be politically and financially feasible, effective at removing short-chain PFAS from water supplies, and equitable towards lower-income and minority Californians, who suffer the most from the consequences of PFAS and other environmental pollutants. The new definitions, education campaigns, studies, taxes, bans, standards, testing, and filtration systems proposed are intended to …

Antarctic Polar Stratospheric Cloud Analysis Of Ace-Fts Data From 2005 To 2023, M. Lecours, C. D. Boone, P. F. Bernath

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

We present an analysis of Antarctic polar winters from 2005 to 2023 as observed by the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment (ACE). The unique broad band infrared spectral features in ACE “residual” spectra are used to classify the spectra of polar aerosols by composition into polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) and sulfate aerosols. The spectra of PSCs are further classified into nitric acid trihydrate, supercooled ternary solutions, supercooled nitric acid, ice-mix, and mixtures of PSCs. A breakdown of PSC composition is presented for each year. Antarctic winter seasons with unusual compositions are: 2011, in which volcanic ash mixed with PSCs was observed from …

Role Of Nitrogenous Functional Group Identity In Accelerating 1,2,3- Trichloropropane Degradation By Pyrogenic Carbonaceous Matter (Pcm) And Sulfide Using Pcm-Like Polymers, Han Cao, Jingdong Mao, Paul G. Tratnyek, Wenqing Xu

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

Groundwater contamination by 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) poses a unique challenge due to its human toxicity and recalcitrance to degradation. Previous work suggests that nitrogenous functional groups of pyrogenic carbonaceous matter (PCM), such as biochar, are important in accelerating contaminant dechlorination by sulfide. However, the reaction mechanism is unclear due, in part, to PCM's structural complexity. Herein, PCM-like polymers (PLPs) with controlled placement of nitrogenous functional groups [i.e., quaternary ammonium (QA), pyridine, and pyridinium cations (py⁺)] were employed as model systems to investigate PCM-enhanced TCP degradation by sulfide. Our results suggest that both PLP-QA and PLP-py⁺ were highly effective …

Examining The Effectiveness Of Oiled Ballast Water Treatment Processes: Insights Into Hydrocarbon Oxidation Product Formation And Environmental Implications, Maxwell L. Harsha, Danielle E. Verna, Yanila Salas-Ortiz, Eduardo Osborn, Eduardo Turcios Valle, Aleksandar I. Goranov, Patrick G. Hatcher, Ana M. Aguilar-Islas, Patrick L. Tomco, David C. Podgorski

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

Ballast water released from ships into coastal environments has been identified as a mechanism that introduces contaminants of concern into coastal ecosystems. This study investigates the treatment processes employed at a ballast water treatment facility in Valdez, Alaska, that remove hydrocarbons from unsegregated ballast water. Specifically, the aim is to quantify and characterize hydrocarbons of emerging concern, known as dissolved hydrocarbon oxidation products (HOPs) and heavy metals (HMs), throughout the treatment process. Specialized analytical techniques were employed, such as non-volatile dissolved organic carbon analysis, fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform-ion cyclotron resonance-mass spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Results …

Investigating Factors Contributing To Differences In Air Pollutants Between Metropolitan Areas In The Us, Ellen Hu

Scripps Senior Theses

Densely populated regions around the United States exhibit varying concentrations of air pollutants that can impact the health of urban populations and surrounding ecosystems. Understanding why these differences exist can be important in addressing health issues as the human population continues to increase and communities across the globe move to accommodate these trends. To investigate the impact of natural processes and anthropogenic sources on pollutant concentrations, EPA daily fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃) pollutant concentrations from seven metropolitan regions across the US for 2018-2022 were used. A Spearman Rank-Order …

Tracking The Reaction Networks Of Criegee Intermediates Formed In The Ozone-Assisted Oxidation Reactions Of C5 Acyclic And Endocyclic Alkenes, Arden M. Floyd

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Uni- and bi-molecular reactions involving Criegee intermediates (CIs), characteristic to alkene-ozone reactions, play an important role in synthetic organic, atmospheric, and combustion chemistry. However, difficulty in detecting key intermediates has prevented a thorough understanding of the details of the ozonolysis mechanism. To gain new insights into how alkene structure affects the CI network, the ozone assisted oxidation reactions of trans-2-pentene and cyclopentene are investigated between 320 K and 760 K in an atmospheric pressure jet stirred reactor (JSR). Molecular-beam mass spectrometry in conjunction with single photon tunable synchrotron VUV radiation is used to identify elusive intermediates by means of …

Mapping The Reaction Networks Of Cis Formed In The Ozone-Assisted Oxidation Of C₆ Acyclic And Endocyclic Alkenes, Zachary Clarke

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Criegee intermediates (CIs) are highly reactive species generated during the ozonolysis of alkenes, exerting a critical influence on atmospheric oxidation, combustion chemistry, and synthetic processes. Their reactivity, encompassing unimolecular and bimolecular pathways, shapes oxidation mechanisms and product distributions in these environments. A key determinant of CI behavior is the structural nature of the parent alkene. Acyclic alkenes typically yield intermediates with minimal steric hindrance, facilitating rapid reactions, whereas endocyclic alkenes produce geometrically constrained CIs with enhanced internal stabilization, redirecting reaction pathways and reducing overall reactivity. Despite their importance, mechanistic understanding remains limited due to experimental challenges in detecting CIs and …

Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid Exposure Leads To Downregulation Of 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl-Coa Synthase 2 Expression And Upregulation Of Markers Associated With Intestinal Carcinogenesis In Mouse Intestinal Tissues, Josiane Weber Tessmann, Pan Deng, Jerika Durham, Chang Li, Moumita Banerjee, Qingding Wang, Ryan A. Goettl, Daheng He, Chi Wang, Eun Y. Lee, B. Mark Evers, Bernhard Hennig, Yekaterina Y. Zaytseva

Markey Cancer Center Faculty Publications

Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a widely recognized environment pollutant known for its high bio- accumulation potential and a long elimination half-life. Several studies have shown that PFOS can alter multiple biological pathways and negatively affect human health. Considering the direct exposure to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to environmental pollutants, PFOS can potentially disrupt intestinal homeostasis. However, there is limited knowledge about the effect of PFOS exposure on normal intestinal tissues, and its contribution to GI- associated diseases remains to be determined. In this study, we examined the effect of PFOS exposure on the gene expression profile of intestinal tissues of …

Synthesis, Functionalization, And Application Of Polymeric Membrane Blends Of Polysulfone, Poly-Ether Ether-Ketone, And Natural Fiber Additive Biochar For Optimal Water Treatment., Abelline Katusiime Fionah

Theses and Dissertations--Chemistry

According to the Center for disease control (CDC), an estimated 1.7 to 2.2 million persons die from waterborne diseases annually. The majority of individuals dying from diseases resulting from unsafe drinking water, such as diarrhea and gastroenteritis, are children. This has in turn created a global water crisis. Different methods have been developed to treat contaminated water in response to the global water crisis such as adsorption, filtration, ozonolysis, catalysis, etc. Of the methods available, filtration via polymeric membranes has been one of the most successfully applied. A membrane is a thin semi-permeable barrier (often made of a polymer) used …

Impacts Of Key Degradation Byproducts On Amine Scrubbing For Post-Combustion Carbon Capture, Thomas Jorgensen

Theses and Dissertations--Chemistry

The increasing atmospheric CO₂ concentration causes significant concern about global warming and its environmental impact. Industrial sectors, including power generation, transportation, and production factories, contribute most of the anthropogenic sources of CO₂ emissions. Researchers search for methods to mitigate these CO₂ emissions without compromising the benefits of industrial processes, including CO₂ capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS). Post-combustion carbon capture (PCCC) by amine scrubbing is the most technology ready CCUS, with various pilot-scale projects worldwide showing small-scale to fully operational plants. While researchers have made significant progress in amine scrubbing, they strive to improve the efficiency and …

Geochemistry Of Rare Earth Elements In Simulated Natural Waters: Experiments And Modelling Of Precipitation, Complexation, And Bioavailability., Samantha Zulian

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

Rare earth elements (REEs) are an important part of modern technology and used for many applications. Mining, agriculture, improper recycling and medical applications can increase the concentration of these elements in surface waters. Metals in the environment including REEs can be found naturally but understanding the implications increase concentrations from anthropogenic inputs is important. REE mobility, persistence and toxicity is imperative to risk assessment as Canada begins to mine REE. Ultimately, as with other metals, the impacts of REEs in the environment should be dependent on the specific physical and chemical forms of the elements. Fractionation provides a practical method …

Conversion Of Cellulose To 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural As Sustainable Energy: A Bibliometric Analysis By Vosviewer, Royyan Faradis, Ardiansyah Bagus Suryanto, Irmina Kris Murwani

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

The developments of the global economy and society impact resources and the environment. This condition requires an alternative to find new, safe, and sustainable energy types. The conversion of cellulose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) has become a significant area of research interest. It has triggered the development of research directions related to biomass and energy because it can be an intermediary source for making polymers, solvents, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. The primary objective of this study is to give a bibliometric analysis of 1753 reports on the development of research on cellulose conversion to 5-HMF from 1965 to 2021. The data were …

Assessing The Performance Of Newly Developed Silica Nanoparticles Against Lead And Phosphate Ion Removal From Contaminated Solutions Using Adsorption Isotherm, Hasan Shamseddine, Nour Abi Aad, Rami Oweini, Ghassan Younes

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

This study investigates the removal of Lead and Phosphate ion from aqueous solution using new silica nanoparticles doped with europium (H1) which was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The aim of this research is to develop a novel adsorbent material that can efficiently remove contaminated ions from wastewater or aqueous solutions. The adsorption of lead and phosphate ion onto the silica nanoparticles is investigated, and the efficiency of this removal is evaluated. Equilibrium data analysis reveals linear fitting with Langmuir isotherm with 24.76 mg/g Lead ion uptake, while for phosphate the …

Microplate-Like Metal Pyrophosphate Engineered On Ni-Foam Towards Multifunctional Electrode Material For Energy Conversion And Storage, Rishabh Srivastava

Electronic Theses & Dissertations

High clean energy demand, dire need for sustainable development, and low carbon footprints are the few intuitive challenges, leading researchers to aim for research and development for high-performance energy devices. The development of materials used in energy devices is currently focused on enhancing the performance, electronic properties, and durability of devices. Tunning the attributes of transition metals using pyrophosphate (P₂O₇) ligand moieties can be a promising approach to meet the requirements of energy devices such as water electrolyzers and supercapacitors, although such a material’s configuration is rarely exposed for this purpose of study.

Herein, we grow …

Enhancing Urban Water Quality Through Biological-Chemical Treatment: Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Community And Temporal Chlorophyll-A Response, Matthew Chaffee

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

With a growing human population, urbanization is impeding a plethora of natural waterways. Of these, urban ponds play a vital role in nutrient sequestration, flood prevention, and habitat sanctuaries. However, nutrient loading can reduce habitat effectiveness and promote harmful algae blooms. To reduce internal nutrient loads, a biological-chemical treatment strategy consisting of floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) and lanthanum were applied to two urban retention ponds, Densmore and Wilderness Ridge Ponds. To measure effectiveness, chlorophyll-a samples were collected and correlated with Sentinel-2. A novel band algorithm termed 3BR1 produced a strong correlation (R² = 0.72) to physical chlorophyll-a …

Quantifying The Role Of Water Quality On Nitrogen Cycling In A Trophic Estuary, Kayla Gonzalez-Boy

Symposium of Student Scholars

Jobos Bay Estuary is an intertidal, tropical estuary located in southern Puerto Rico. The estuary covers about 12 km² and has a variety of habitats, such as seagrass beds, mangroves, mud flats, and coral reefs, which play important roles in sediment trapping and water quality maintenance. Seagrasses also serve as nursery and feeding grounds and provide shelter for macrofauna. Currently, the role of seagrasses and water quality on nitrogen (N) cycling in trophic estuaries is not well constrained. Understanding variations in sediment-based effects on N cycling rates and transformations, and how they are associated with water quality, is an …