Main Content

Analysis of microplastics in sediments- Validation of the Microplastic Sediment Separator (MPSS)

We allocate an experimental thesis in natural science (Bachelor or Master) in the highly topical and interdisciplinary field of microplastic. In this new area of research, one focus is on the development of liable and efficient methods of quantification and identification of microplastic. One approach for the separation of microplastic and sediments is the so-called MicroPlastic Sediment Separator (MPSS). A sample is given into a highly dense salt solution. In the separator, the sediment will then move downwards and the microplastic moves upwards.

Das Foto bildet den MPSS, den sogenannten MicroPlastic Sediment Separator, ab. Dabei handelt es sich um ein Gerät aus Edelstahl, das ungefähr 1,5 m hoch ist. Es steht auf einem Rollwagen und besteht aus drei Komponenten: dem Sedimentbehälter, in dem die Sedimentprobe umgerührt wird, dem Steigrohr, in dem das Mikroplastik aufsteigt und der Probenkammer, die der Entnahme des Mikroplastik dient.
HYDRO-BIOS Apparatebau GmbH
Der sogenannte MicroPlastic Sediment Separator (MPSS) dient der Trennung von Sedimenten und Mikroplastik.

The purpose of the thesis is the experimental investigation of the effectivity of the MPSS. Therefore different samples with the known composition of polymers are tested. The objective is to clarify the recovery rate for different polymers, sizes, and forms. The thesis is part of a project to analyze the capabilities and limitations of the MPSS and will, therefore, contribute greatly to the field of microplastic research.
Preconditions are a current course of studies in natural science, an interest in environment-related questions and a vocation for practical work in a laboratory.
You are motivated, diligent and research enthusiastic? Great, then we need you!

Supervision and contact: Julia Prume (M. Sc., Environmental Sciences)

Grading:
Geography: Prof. Peter Chifflard
or Physics: Prof. Martin Koch