Question 1

What is the main aim of the project?

Accepted Answer

To develop and validate the novel concept of diffuse electrically conductive zones (DECZs) for the electrobioremediation of groundwater contaminated with complex mixtures of pollutants.

Question 2

What are the key methodologies and experimental approaches being used?

Accepted Answer

Identification and selection of Fe- and/or C-based (nano) particles to enhance aquifer conductivity; development of injection and controlled deposition methods for these materials in model soils; setup and operation of flow-through soil columns with carbon-based electrodes; lab-scale optimisation under controlled conditions; and field/pilot-scale validation using real contaminated soil and groundwater.

Question 3

What specific hypothesis is being tested?

Accepted Answer

That DECZs formed by conductive (nano)materials can enhance electrobioremediation efficiency by supporting microbial activity and electron transfer in contaminated soils and groundwater.

Question 4

What type(s) of culture or model systems will be used to test the hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

Model soils in flow-through columns and real environmental matrices (soil and groundwater from contaminated sites), with microbiomes selected for compatibility with MET processes.

Question 5

What are the expected outcomes of the research?

Accepted Answer

New knowledge on DECZs, microbial communities involved, and electron transfer mechanisms; demonstrated treatment of aromatic hydrocarbons and chlorinated solvents; identification of optimal operating conditions, energy demand, and electrode radius of influence.

Question 6

What are the main challenges or risks associated with the project?

Accepted Answer

Selection and deposition of suitable conductive materials, adaptation of microbiomes to the MET environment, and ensuring treatment efficiency under variable environmental conditions.

Question 7

Who are the key collaborators involved?

Accepted Answer

Aarhus Universitet (AU) (https://international.au.dk/)for physiological tests using selected relevant pure cultures and different iron minerals.

DC9

THE SUPERVISORS

THE CANDIDATE