Biogeochemistry of metals

Speciation, bioavailability and mobility

Speciation of trace elements is a key issue to evaluate the mobility and fate to trace elements, as well as their effects. The metals in natural waters may be in dissolved, colloidal or particulate form and may be bound to organic ligands forming complexes of various thermodynamic stability and kinetic lability. Accumulation and effects of metals to algae are examined as a function of speciation in laboratory, microcosm and field experiments. Behavior of nanoparticles in natural waters and their interactions with algae are also investigated. All projects are carried out in collaboration with the group of Renata Behra.

Research projects

• Ecotoxicology of engineered nanoparticles [...]

• Lead bioavailability and effects to periphyton [...]