Mechanistic studies on the transformation of P-containing Fe oxides

ESR 7: Ville Nenonen

Supervisor: Dr. Andreas Voegelin (EAWAG, Switzerland) / Co-supervisors: Prof. Erik Smolders (KU Leuven, Belgium), Prof. Lenny Winkel (ETH Zurich, Switzerland)

Project description:The project of ESR 7 at Eawag is focused on the formation and transformation of P-bearing Fe solids in the presence of other solutes (Ca, organic matter) and impacts on P and trace element solubility. Laboratory experiments are combined with state of the art analytical tools, including synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopies, for solid-phase characterisation and with geochemical modelling to gain a conceptual understanding of the relevant processes. The laboratory studies can be complemented by spectroscopic studies on soil samples from field trials. Ultimately, this work should result in a model describing the formation and transformation of Fe solids and effects on P-trapping. The project will be performed in close collaboration with Swiss and international partners and involves secondments at academic partners in the consortium but also at companies which are partner organizations in the P-TRAP project.

Secondments planned:

GEOS: Assessing potential of improving P removal and retention by .filter stable sorbent material upon addition of supporting materials (e. g. Calcite) (3 months)

DELTARES: Characterization of Fe(III)-oxidation products in P trapping systems (2 months)

KULEUVEN: Investigating transformation products of P-containing Fe phases in soils (1 month)