ERAR6007
10 units
6000 level
Course handbook
Description
The goal of contaminated land risk assessment and remediation is to ensure the protection of human health and the environment. The underpinning knowledge is the chemistry and toxicity of contaminants. This course focuses on a list of contaminants present in the terrestrial environment, especially their sources, chemistry, behaviour, toxicity and dynamics. Predominant focus is on contaminated land in urban areas. However, some consideration on mining processes will also be explored. Emerging contaminants, such as nanomaterials, firefighting foams, and pharmaceutical products will be introduced in addition to traditional contaminants such as heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. This course includes a seminar on contamination chemistry, toxicity and environmental effects.
Availability
Not currently offered.
This Course was last offered in Semester 2 - 2020.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of common soil contaminants, including chemistry, toxicity, harmful effects, and behaviour.
2. Understand mechanisms of fate and transport of soil contaminants.
3. Utilise geochemical modelling to understanding the behaviour of soil contaminants.
4. Undertake a literature review and provide reports to communicate results with public, government and scientific community.
5. Work in a group for a team task and in a self-directed manner.
Content
- Introduction of soil contamination, including metals, metalloids, PAHs, TPH, chlorinated solvents and pesticide.
- The source, chemistry, behaviour in soils, toxic effects to human health and the ecological environment of soil contaminents. Emerging contaminents including fluorinated and brominated compounds, and nanomaterials.
- Geochemical models for mineral solubility and understanding the reaction of contaminants (computer lab).
- Acid mining drainage in mining areas and pit lakes issues.
- Communication and technical writing, in the context of environmental remediation.
Assumed knowledge
Students should have bachelor level in environmental science or related field.
Assessment items
Report: Geochemical modelling and report
Presentation: Presentation
Formal Examination: Examination
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.