Degradation of Emerging Contaminants in Water Samples by Biological Treatments (Phase 2)

This project addresses the growing concern regarding the presence of emerging contaminants (ECs), such as pharmaceuticals and steroid hormones, in water resources, which are not efficiently removed by conventional treatments and pose risks to health and the ecosystem. The main objective is to develop biological treatments to degrade specific compounds including carbamazepine, ibuprofen, estrone (E1), 17-β-estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), and 17-α-ethinylestradiol (EE2). The methodology focuses on biological work packages (WP B). Initially, a literature review will be conducted to identify microorganisms common in water contaminated with ECs. Subsequently, the most abundant microorganisms capable of utilizing the contaminant as a carbon source will be selected. Finally, the operating parameters for batch degradation assays will be determined, and the molecular structure of the resulting products will be characterized using mass spectrometry. This research aims to contribute to sustainable development through the control of emerging contaminants in national water bodies.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To degrade emerging contaminants, specifically pharmaceuticals and steroid hormones, present in water samples by employing biological treatments based on the selection and use of microorganisms.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Microbial ecology of natural environments