We study the behaviour of chemical compounds in nature - air, water, soil and food chains. Much of this work is related to pollution from local sources - further distributed globally. We study metals (like Pb, Hg, Cd, Cu, Zn, Ni, Al, As,…), toxic and slowly degradable organic compounds (PCB, PAH,…), radioactive materials (137Cs). Additionally studies of important nutrients (I, Se, Mn, Fe, Mo,…) are also carried out.

We are also involved in research in the field of trace elements in medicine and biology, and study the effects. We investigate the effects of such compounds from a biochemical and physological point of view, and the influence on diseases.

Click here for more information about research and possible Master studies in Environmental Chemistry.

We develop analytical methods of special relevance for studies of the environment, like monitoring of pollutants. Of special interest are methods for automatic and remotely controlled monitoring, to be used on-line and unattended in the field.

At present the number of parameters to be measured using unattended systems is very limited except from simple ones (like  temperature and conductivity). Traditionally samples are collected and brought to laboratories for analysis with expensive equipment. This does not only cost money, but is also unfavorable due to possible contamination of the samples. Additionally, automatic monitoring enable ones to act immediately in case of accidents, extraordinary discharges, environmental crime etc.

We are developing such automatic methods, not as a tool for environmental monitoring only, but also as a tooll for improving the control of industrial processes.

Click here for more information about research and possible Maseter studies in analytical chemistry.