Grantee Research Project Results
2005 Progress Report: Nanotechnology: A Novel Approach to Prevent Biocide Leaching
EPA Grant Number: GR832371Title: Nanotechnology: A Novel Approach to Prevent Biocide Leaching
Investigators: Heiden, Patricia , Dawson-Andoh, Benjamin , Matuana, Laurent
Institution: Michigan Technological University , West Virginia University , Michigan State University
Current Institution: Michigan Technological University , Michigan State University , West Virginia University
EPA Project Officer: Hahn, Intaek
Project Period: July 1, 2008 through August 30, 2009
Project Period Covered by this Report: July 1, 2004 through August 30, 2005
Project Amount: $333,130
RFA: Greater Research Opportunities: Research in Nanoscale Science Engineering and Technology (2004) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Nanotechnology , Safer Chemicals
Objective:
The overall objective of the research project is to show that introduction of biocides into controlled release nanoparticles will reduce the leaching of those biocides into the environment, thereby reducing negative environmental impact and increasing longevity of the treated wood with lesser amounts of biocide used. The rationale for this is that soluble biocides are rapidly depleted from wood structures, and this results in leaving the wood exposed to degradation and also in the release of the biocide into the environment where it can have negative impact. The methodology we are seeking to use in this work to adequately slow the release of soluble biocides is the introduction of the biocide into a core-shell nanoparticle, with a hydrophobic core designed to regulate the biocide release rate and a hydrophilic shell layer intended to stabilize the nanoparticles in a wood-treating suspension. The initial objectives for the summer of 2005 were to prepare several possible polymer compositions for the core-shell nanoparticles and to subsequently determine size and suitability for treating wood.
Progress Summary:
Several different compositions were prepared, characterized, and used to prepare nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were isolated and scanning electron microscopy was used to determine the size of the nanoparticles. Nanoparticles were found to be in the range of 50 to 150 nm.
Future Activities:
Work is beginning on preparation of nanoparticles containing organic biocides, measuring the biocide release rate, and treating southern pine to carry out leaching studies and soil jar studies. A presentation on leaching studies and biological efficacy of treated southern pine when exposed to a brown rot fungus is planned. Once data are obtained showing which compositions are most promising work will begin to develop improved methods of nanoparticle preparation.
Journal Articles:
No journal articles submitted with this report: View all 5 publications for this projectSupplemental Keywords:
leachate, pollution prevention, green chemistry, clean technologies, innovative technology, nanotechnology,, Sustainable Industry/Business, RFA, Scientific Discipline, TREATMENT/CONTROL, INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION, Technology for Sustainable Environment, pollution prevention, Sustainable Environment, Environmental Chemistry, Chemicals Management, Environmental Engineering, Technology, wood preservative, nanomaterials, biotechnology, environmentally benign coating, biocide coatings, nanotechnology, biocide leaching, biocidal nanocomposite coating, alternative materials, clean technologies, cleaner production, alternative building technology, coating processes, green chemistryRelevant Websites:
http://abstracts.csche2006.ca/00000528.htm Exit
Progress and Final Reports:
Original AbstractThe perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.