Bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in river biofilms

Reichert, Gabriela

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/109907 Copy

Description

Title

Bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in river biofilms

Author(s)

Reichert, Gabriela

Issue Date

2021-04-27

Keyword(s)

• per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances
• PFAS

Abstract

Presented by: Gabriela Reichert – PhD student at Federal University of Paraná/ Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, gabrielareichertamb@gmail.com Co-authors: Stephan Hilgert, Stephan Fuchs, Julio César Rodrigues de Azevedo Abstract: Biofilms are complex communities of bacteria, algae, fungi, and other microorganisms. Biofilms are found in many natural and human-mediated habitats. Their main characteristic is the ability to attach to different surfaces, and to colonize different ecosystems. Another important feature is the capacity to absorb substances, including nutrients, organic matter, and pollutants. Due to this capacity, they could indicate the presence of pollutants in the natural environment. The main goal of this research was to analyze biofilm collected from two sampling points in a river in southern Germany: one upstream and one downstream a small WWTP to assess the accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Sediment and water samples were also analyzed. 14 PAH were detected in the samples. PFAS were not detected in biofilm and sediment. The concentrations detected were higher for the biofilm and the sediment samples collected downstream of the WWTP. The water samples did not present significant differences between the two sampling points. Biofilm can be an adequate matrix for time-integrating analyses. Research with other substances and over longer periods should be performed. Biography: PhD student in the field of Environmental Engineering and Water Resources. The focus of my research is environmental chemistry, emerging contaminants and urban pollution. I am currently studying the bioaccumulation of emerging contaminants in stream biofilms.

Series/Report Name or Number

2021 Emerging Contaminants in the Environment Conference (ECEC21)

Type of Resource

• text
• still image

Language

en

Permalink

• http://hdl.handle.net/2142/109907
• https://youtu.be/QcqG72zRrQw

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