AERI - Department of Environmental Analytics

The activities of our research department are directed primarily at the determination of organic micropollutants originating from agricultural activities.

The activities of our research department are directed primarily at the determination of organic micropollutants originating from agricultural activities. These micropollutants are present in various environmental samples, such as samples from surface waters, ground waters, soils, and also in samples of biological origin. For the quantitative and qualitative determination of micropollutants, various analytical instruments and methods are used, such as GC-MS, HPLC, ELISA, immunosensors. Proper assessment of the current state of the environment, determination of pesticide residues from biological and non-biological matrices are integral and necessary parts of the Department to map the side-effects of the pollutants. Research collaborations with the Department of Ecotoxicology focus primarily on the main effects and side effects of genetically modified corn. A further important topic is analytical investigation of the presence and effects of hormone modulant pollutants. The above mentioned research activities require a continuous development of analytical method in the areas of instrumental analysis (GC-MS, GC-ECD) and immunoanalytsis (ELISA, immunosensors), as well as in the areas of sample preparation, target compound extraction and the possible presence of newly formed residues. Our research topics include, furthermore, the investigation of the herbicide „Roundup”, its active ingredient (glyphosate), and its other ingredients, e.g. formulating surfactant polyethoxylated tallowamine (POEA). Other topics include studies of contact insecticides and their environmental behaviour, environmental monitoring activities, and the development of analytical methods for pesticides and other xenobiotics.