Dr Thava Palanisami
Associate Professor
School of Engineering
- Email:thava.palanisami@newcastle.edu.au
- Phone:(02) 40339411
Career Summary
Biography
Dr. Thava Palanisami completed his PhD on the Risk assessment and Remediation of mixed contaminants in 2010, at the University of South Australia. Thava’s PhD research demonstrated that chemicals in contaminated sites occur as mixtures rather than single contaminants, which had been the previous assumption for several decades. With a focus on long-term contaminated soils, Thava demonstrated that chemical mixtures of PAHs and metals have higher toxicity and are more bioavailable compared with contaminants in isolation.
End user-driven research is the enduring strength of his career post PhD. Thava took up a post-doctoral position to translate fundamental research to field level remediation technologies for mixed contaminated sites. He played a pivotal role, in the team, in developing and implementation of several cost-effective, innovative, green remediation technologies for the remediation of chemical contamination in mine sites. Thava and his colleagues have led the first ever field level implementation of a Risk-Based Land Management (RBLM) approach to managing contaminated sites in Australia. The RBLM concept has significant implications for the paradigm change in risk assessment and management of contaminated soils.
Over the past ten years, Thava’s mixed contaminant (PAHs & metals) research has led him towards a new research theme - contaminant transformation products (CTPs). CTPs are often more bioavailable and toxic than the parent chemicals and are not well understood. Thava seeks to track these transformation products through the environment to human health, using various in vitro and in vivo tools. Recently, his research focus is on adding new dimensions in the risk assessment and remediation of emerging contaminants such as microplastics and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).
Microplastics, either manufactured or formed through ageing and weathering processes are a potential planetary boundary threat, resulting in human exposure via dietary intake and inhalation. Microplastics can be small enough to be engulfed by cells, where they are transported by the lymphatic and blood systems and have the potential to bioaccumulate. Microplastics are known to contain harmful chemical additives incorporated during manufacture and may adsorb pollutants from the surrounding environment. Many of these associated chemicals are recognised priority pollutants with known adverse health effects and are speculated to be released to tissues. Additionally, the persistent nature, irregular shapes and surface chemistry of small particles may cause an inflammatory response. Despite the potential for human exposure to microplastics, the health effects are unknown.
With an emphasis on plastics as an emerging contaminant, Thava’s team initiated plastics research at The University of Newcastle in 2015. Their principal aim was to develop fundamental knowledge on the ageing and weathering of microplastics in the environment to improve the accuracy of ecological and human health risk assessment and develop solutions. Currently, Thava’s team research on 12 different topics to fill the knowledge gaps and the remediation technologies developed in collaboration with his industry partners are ready to be implemented. In collaboration with Macquarie University, his team led the Australian Microplastic Assessment Project (AUSMAP). They also led the UON-Pacific Plastic waste management program in partnership with SPREP. Please contact me or a member of the team if you are interested in this field of research.
Next-Gen Remediation Technologies: On the remediation aspect, Thava focuses on end-user-driven technology development and optimisation for mixed contaminants. Thava has assisted his industry partners to develop and deliver Next-Gen remediation technologies to treat emerging contaminants such as microplastics and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) In wastewater and contaminated solids. Next-Gen technologies are green, closes the loop using treatment train, flexible for implementation and up-gradation. These Next-Gen technologies can be used either as destructive or non-destructive (removing the contaminants only). The non-destructive remediation technology is the first of its kind, most suited to preserve the value of biosolids while removing only the contaminants from wastewater.
Thava has been involved as a scientific expert in the field level PFAS Remediation technology trials. Thava has led the first treatment technology to completely remove the microplastics and associated chemicals from the whole of a water cycle. These technologies are now ready for field implementation.
The the end-user engagement has been the enduring strength for Thava, who enjoys collaboration and networking with industry. He has established several key national and international industry collaborations and secured significant industry funding. Within UoN, Thava’s team works closely with NIER, HMRI, the School of Environmental and Life Sciences and the Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN). Active international collaborations include partnerships in the UK, USA, India and China. Thava's research profile has attracted several international visitors through Endeavour, Commonwealth and Fulbright programs. He enjoys mentoring and ensures his PhD students are trained in a multidisciplinary supervisory team to become independent leaders and industry-ready scientists. Thava recruits research degree students in order to develop their career beyond PhD, connecting them with relevant industries and external bodies.
Qualifications
- PhD, University of South Australia
Keywords
- Biodegradable Plastics
- Contaminant metabolites
- Ecological risk assessment
- Microplastics
- Microplastics
- Mine Site Reclamation
- Mixed contaminants
- Risk based land management
- Soil Genomics
- Toxicity & Bioavailability
- contaminants & Human microbiome
- human health risk assessment
Fields of Research
Code | Description | Percentage |
---|---|---|
410402 | Environmental assessment and monitoring | 100 |
Professional Experience
UON Appointment
Title | Organisation / Department |
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Associate Professor | University of Newcastle School of Engineering Australia |
Academic appointment
Dates | Title | Organisation / Department |
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24/1/2014 - 24/1/2015 | Research Fellow | University of South Australia Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR) Australia |
18/10/2009 - 23/1/2014 | Research Associate | University of South Australia Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR) Australia |
Awards
Award
Year | Award |
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2016 |
Science Meets Parliament (SmP) Ambassador Award-SETAC AU Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC), Australasia |
Honours
Year | Award |
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2018 |
Adjunct Faculty Tamilnadu Agricultural University |
Invitations
Committee Member
Year | Title / Rationale |
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2021 | Hunter River Salinity Trading Scheme-Operations Committee |
2017 | Technical Committee Member- International Conference on Contaminated Site Remediation 2017 |
2015 | Technical Committee-CleanUp Australia 2015 |
Keynote Speaker
Year | Title / Rationale |
---|---|
2021 | Geneva Environment Network(UNEP) |
2020 | The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine-Emerging Technologies to Advance Research and Decisions on the Environmental Health Effects of Microplastics |
Organiser
Year | Title / Rationale |
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2016 | Organizing Secretary-International Contaminated Site Remediation Conference-CleanUp India 2016 |
Panel Participant
Year | Title / Rationale |
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2020 | National Plastics Summit |
Grant Reviews
Year | Grant | Amount |
---|---|---|
2020 |
European Research Council C3232 - International Govt - Other - 3232, C3232 - International Govt - Other - 3232 |
$0 |
2019 |
Australian Antarctic Science Program Aust Competitive - Commonwealth - 1CS, Aust Competitive - Commonwealth - 1CS |
$0 |
2019 |
The Israel Science Foundation (ISF) C3232 - International Govt - Other - 3232, C3232 - International Govt - Other - 3232 |
$0 |
2019 |
The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) C3231 - International Govt - Own Purpose - 3231, C3231 - International Govt - Own Purpose - 3231 |
$0 |
2018 |
Natural Environment Research Council C3231 - International Govt - Own Purpose - 3231, C3231 - International Govt - Own Purpose - 3231 |
$0 |
2018 |
The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMw) International - Competitive - 3IFA, International - Competitive - 3IFA |
$0 |
2018 |
Australian Research Council(ARC) Aust Competitive - Commonwealth - 1CS, Aust Competitive - Commonwealth - 1CS |
$0 |
Prestigious works / other achievements
Year Commenced | Year Finished | Prestigious work / other achievement | Role |
---|---|---|---|
2021 | 2022 | Guest Editor, Environmental Pollution Journal | Editor |
2021 | 2021 | Guest Editor, Frontiers in Microbiology journal | Editor |
2020 | 2021 | Guest Editor, Toxics Toxics Journal | Editor |
2018 | 2020 | Section Editor, PLoS ONE PLoS ONE | Editor |
Teaching
Code | Course | Role | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
BTEC1000 |
Introduction to Biotechnology Faculty of Science | University of Newcastle | Australia |
Invited Guest Lecture | 28/3/2018 - 4/5/2018 |
ERAR 6004 |
Environmental Remediation Technologies Faculty of Science and Information Technology, The University of Newcastle | Australia |
Lecturing | 21/5/2016 - 19/5/2020 |
GEOS2060 |
Soil Properties and Processes Faculty of Science | University of Newcastle |
course coordinator | 1/7/2021 - 31/12/2024 |
MATS6006 |
Biomedical Application of Nanomaterials Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment - The University of Newcastle (Australia) |
Senior Lecturer | 1/1/2020 - 31/12/2020 |
Publications
For publications that are currently unpublished or in-press, details are shown in italics.
Chapter (6 outputs)
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2023 |
Guhananthan A, Kuttykattil A, Palanisami T, Rajendran S, 'Sources, consequences, and control of nanoparticles and microplastics in the environment', Emerging Aquatic Contaminants: One Health Framework for Risk Assessment and Remediation in the Post COVID-19 Anthropocene 277-306 (2023) Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) and microplastics (MPs) have become a global concern due to their toxic nature and drastic increase in production volume. They are seen as major co... [more] Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) and microplastics (MPs) have become a global concern due to their toxic nature and drastic increase in production volume. They are seen as major contaminants in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems because of their small size and complexity in predicting their interactions with other environmental contaminants. Misuse and improper disposal of ENPs and MPs often lead to their accumulation in different segments of the environment causing toxic effects in all living organisms ranging from microbes, plants, animals, and humans to aquatic life. Their bio-accumulation leads to interference in the food web thereby disturbing the balance in the ecosystem, leading to ecotoxicity. Cytotoxicity, gene alteration, autoimmune disorders, DNA damage, Immunotoxicity, generation of reactive oxygen species, and inhibition of enzymatic activity are a few toxic effects of ENPs and MPs to mention. Considering the above-mentioned issues, this chapter discusses various sources of ENPs and MPs, their consequences on living organisms and the environment, and their control measures mainly in an aquatic environment. The control measures include various separation techniques for ENPs like size exclusion chromatography (SEC), ozonation, membrane filtration, and filtration techniques for MPs like disk filter, rapid sand filter dissolved air floatation, and membrane bio-reactor.
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2021 | Archana V, Vincent S, Palanisami T, 'Bioremediation of chlorinated organic pollutants in Anaerobic sediments', Bioremediation Science From Theory to Practice, Taylor and Francis, England 329-335 (2021) | ||||||||||
2020 | Shaji P, Vincent S, Palanisami T, 'Bioremediation of Wastewater by Sulphate reducing bacteria', Bioremediation Science From Theory to Practice, Taylor and Francis, England (2020) | ||||||||||
2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Palanisami T, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Naidu R, 'Ex-situ remediation technologies for environmental pollutants: A critical perspective', Reviews of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, Springer International, Cham, Switzerland 117-192 (2016) [B1]
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Palanisami T, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Naidu R, 'In-situ remediation approaches for the management of contaminated sites: A comprehensive overview', Reviews of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, Springer International, Cham, Switzerland 1-115 (2016) [B1]
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Journal article (107 outputs)
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2024 |
Cao Y, Sathish CI, Guan X, Wang S, Palanisami T, Vinu A, Yi J, 'Advances in magnetic materials for microplastic separation and degradation.', J Hazard Mater, 461 132537 (2024) [C1]
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2024 |
Raghuraman Rengarajan HJ, Detchanamurthy S, Panneerselvan L, Palanisami T, 'Current and future perspectives of a microalgae based circular bioeconomy to manage industrial wastewater A Systematic Review', Physiologia Plantarum, 176 (2024) [C1] Post technological advancements and industrialisation, the recovery of resources by treating wastewater is gaining momentum. As the global population continues to grow, the need f... [more] Post technological advancements and industrialisation, the recovery of resources by treating wastewater is gaining momentum. As the global population continues to grow, the need for water is becoming increasingly urgent. Therefore, the re-utilisation of water is becoming an increasingly important factor in the preservation of life on this planet. Wastewater is classified according to its source of origin. When left untreated, the effluent causes several environmental hazards and poses health issues as they have higher concentrations of nutrients and toxic heavy metals. Currently, several conventional methods exist to treat and handle wastewater, but they generate secondary waste post-treatment and are not sustainable. Microalgae-based treatment of wastewater is highly sustainable, cost-efficient and aligns with the concept of circular bioeconomy. The biological treatment of effluents using microalgae has several advantages. Approximately 1.83 kg of CO2 is sequestered per kg of the dry biomass during microalgae cultivation. Among all the sustainable alternatives, microalgae offer better biomass productivity by utilising a higher concentration of nutrients in wastewater. The wastewater-grown microalgae have higher efficiency in producing commercially important secondary metabolites. This systematic review highlights the competence of microalgae in different wastewater sources and their industrial perspectives. This also gives an overview of the biproducts produced from microalgae-based wastewater treatment.
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2024 |
Karthika S, Sivasubramanian K, Dhevagi P, Thavamani P, Rajkishore SK, Amrutha VM, et al., 'Distribution pattern and risk assessment of microplastics contamination in different agricultural systems', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY, [C1]
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2024 |
Zhang W, Bhagwat G, Palanisami T, Liang S, Wan W, Yang Y, 'Lacustrine plastisphere: Distinct succession and assembly processes of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities and role of site, time, and polymer types', Water Research, 248 (2024) [C1] Microplastics as a carrier can promote microbial diffusion, potentially influencing the ecological functions of microbial communities in aquatic environments. However, our underst... [more] Microplastics as a carrier can promote microbial diffusion, potentially influencing the ecological functions of microbial communities in aquatic environments. However, our understanding of the assembly mechanism of microbial communities on different microplastic polymers in freshwater lakes during succession is still insufficient, especially for the eukaryotes. Here, the colonization time, site, and polymer types of microplastics were comprehensively considered to investigate the composition and assembly of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities and their driving factors during the lacustrine plastisphere formation. Results showed that the particle-associated microorganisms in water were the main source of the plastisphere prokaryotes, while the free-living microorganisms in water mainly accounted for the plastisphere eukaryotes. The response of prokaryotic communities to different microplastic polymers was stronger than eukaryotic communities. The assembly of plastisphere prokaryotic communities was dominated by homogenizing processes (mainly homogenous selection), while the assembly of eukaryotic communities was dominated by differentiating processes (mainly dispersal limitation). Colonization time was an important factor affecting the composition of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities during the formation of the plastisphere. The Chao1 richness of prokaryotic communities in the plastisphere increased with the increase of colonization time, whereas the opposite was true in eukaryotic communities. This differential response of species diversity and composition of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities in the plastisphere during dynamic succession could lead to their distinct assembly processes. Overall, the results suggest that distinct assembly of microbial communities in the plastisphere may depend more on specific microbial sub-communities and colonization time than polymer types and colonization site.
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2024 |
Saikumar S, Mani R, Ganesan M, Dhinakarasamy I, Palanisami T, Gopal D, 'Trophic transfer and their impact of microplastics on estuarine food chain model', Journal of Hazardous Materials, 464 (2024) [C1] Microplastic contamination in marine ecosystems, and its negative effects through trophic transfer among marine organisms, remains a growing concern. Our study investigates the tr... [more] Microplastic contamination in marine ecosystems, and its negative effects through trophic transfer among marine organisms, remains a growing concern. Our study investigates the trophic transfer and individual impacts of polystyrene microplastics (MPs) in an estuarine food chain model, comprising Artemia salina as primary organism, Litopenaeus vanamei as secondary organism, and Oreochromis niloticus as tertiary organism. A. salina were exposed to 1 µm polystyrene microplastics (106 particles/ml), further it was fed to L.vannamei, which, in turn, were fed to O.niloticus. MPs transfer was studied over 24 and 48 h. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed MPs presence in the gut and fecal matter of all the test organisms. Histopathology revealed MPs in the gut epithelium, but did not translocate to other tissues of the test species. MPs exposed A.salina had a bioconcentration factor of 0.0029 ± 0.0008 (24 h) and 0.0000941 ± 0.0000721 (48 h). Whereas, the bioaccumulation factor values for L. vanamei were 0.00012143 ± 0.000009 (24 h) and 0.0025899 ± 0.0024101 (48 h), and for O.niloticus were 0.154992 ± 0.007695 (24 h) and 0.00972577 ± 0.00589923 (48 h). Despite low MPs transfer among trophic levels, the induced stress was evident through biochemical responses in all the test species. This implies the potential risk of MPs ultimately reaching humans via the food chain.
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2024 |
Afrose S, Tran TKA, O'Connor W, Pannerselvan L, Carbery M, Fielder S, et al., 'Organ-specific distribution and size-dependent toxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics in Australian bass (Macquaria novemaculeata).', Environ Pollut, 341 122996 (2024) [C1]
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2023 |
Kuttykattil A, Raju S, Vanka KS, Bhagwat G, Carbery M, Vincent SGT, et al., 'Consuming microplastics? Investigation of commercial salts as a source of microplastics (MPs) in diet.', Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 30 930-942 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Maddison C, Sathish CI, Lakshmi D, Wayne O, Palanisami T, 'An advanced analytical approach to assess the long-term degradation of microplastics in the marine environment', npj Materials Degradation, 7 [C1]
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2023 |
Zhou Y, He G, Bhagwat G, Palanisami T, Yang Y, Liu W, Zhang Q, 'Nanoplastics alter ecosystem multifunctionality and may increase global warming potential.', Glob Chang Biol, 29 3895-3909 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Senathirajah K, Kandaiah R, Panneerselvan L, Sathish CI, Palanisami T, 'Fate and transformation of microplastics due to electrocoagulation treatment: Impacts of polymer type and shape*', ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION, 334 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Tran TKA, Raju S, Singh A, Senathirajah K, Bhagwat-Russell G, Daggubati L, et al., 'Occurrence and distribution of microplastics in long-term biosolid-applied rehabilitation land: An overlooked pathway for microplastic entry into terrestrial ecosystems in Australia.', Environ Pollut, 336 122464 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Senathirajah K, Bonner M, Schuyler Q, Palanisami T, 'A disaster risk reduction framework for the new global instrument to end plastic pollution.', J Hazard Mater, 449 131020 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Selvakumar R, Guhananthan A, Palanisami T, 'Recent advances in micropollutant removal and mitigation from water using three dimensional adsorbent materials', CURRENT OPINION IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & HEALTH, 34 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Senathirajah K, Palanisami T, 'Strategies to Reduce Risk and Mitigate Impacts of Disaster: Increasing Water Quality Resilience from Microplastics in the Water Supply System', ACS ES&T Water, 3 2816-2834 (2023) [C1]
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2022 |
Oumabady S, Selvaraj PS, Periasamy K, Veeraswamy D, Ramesh PT, Palanisami T, Ramasamy SP, 'Kinetic and isotherm insights of Diclofenac removal by sludge derived hydrochar.', Sci Rep, 12 2184 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Vanka KS, Shukla S, Gomez HM, James C, Palanisami T, Williams K, et al., 'Understanding the pathogenesis of occupational coal and silica dust-associated lung disease', EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW, 31 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Kansara K, Bolan S, Radhakrishnan D, Palanisami T, Al-Muhtaseb AH, Bolan N, et al., 'A critical review on the role of abiotic factors on the transformation, environmental identity and toxicity of engineered nanomaterials in aquatic environment', Environmental Pollution, 296 (2022) [C1] Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are at the forefront of many technological breakthroughs in science and engineering. The extensive use of ENMs in several consumer products has res... [more] Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are at the forefront of many technological breakthroughs in science and engineering. The extensive use of ENMs in several consumer products has resulted in their release to the aquatic environment. ENMs entering the aquatic ecosystem undergo a dynamic transformation as they interact with organic and inorganic constituents present in aquatic environment, specifically abiotic factors such as NOM and clay minerals, and attain an environmental identity. Thus, a greater understanding of ENM-abiotic factors interactions is required for an improved risk assessment and sustainable management of ENMs contamination in the aquatic environment. This review integrates fundamental aspects of ENMs transformation in aquatic environment as impacted by abiotic factors, and delineates the recent advances in bioavailability and ecotoxicity of ENMs in relation to risk assessment for ENMs-contaminated aquatic ecosystem. It specifically discusses the mechanism of transformation of different ENMs (metals, metal oxides and carbon based nanomaterials) following their interaction with the two most common abiotic factors NOM and clay minerals present within the aquatic ecosystem. The review critically discusses the impact of these mechanisms on the altered ecotoxicity of ENMs including the impact of such transformation at the genomic level. Finally, it identifies the gaps in our current understanding of the role of abiotic factors on the transformation of ENMs and paves the way for the future research areas.
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2022 |
Ganesan AR, Mohan K, Karthick Rajan D, Pillay AA, Palanisami T, Sathishkumar P, Conterno L, 'Distribution, toxicity, interactive effects, and detection of ochratoxin and deoxynivalenol in food: A review.', Food Chem, 378 131978 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Senathirajah K, Kemp A, Saaristo M, Ishizuka S, Palanisami T, 'Polymer prioritization framework: A novel multi-criteria framework for source mapping and characterizing the environmental risk of plastic polymers', Journal of Hazardous Materials, 429 (2022) [C1] Plastics are an intrinsic part of modern life with many beneficial uses for society. Yet, there is increasing evidence that plastic and microplastic pollution poses a risk to the ... [more] Plastics are an intrinsic part of modern life with many beneficial uses for society. Yet, there is increasing evidence that plastic and microplastic pollution poses a risk to the environment and human health. Microplastics are increasingly grouped as a complex mix of polymers with different physicochemical and toxicological properties. This study attempts to assess the hazardous properties of common polymer types through the development of an integrated multi-criteria framework. The framework establishes a systematic approach to identify plastic polymers of concern. A semi-quantitative method was devised using twenty-one criteria. We used a case study from Victoria, Australia, to evaluate the effectiveness of the framework to characterize the environmental risk of common polymer types. A wide range of data sources were interrogated to complete an in-depth analysis across the material life cycle. We found that three polymers had the highest risk of harm: polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polystyrene; with dominant sectors being: building and construction, packaging, consumer and household, and automotive sectors; and greatest leakage of plastics at the end-of-life stages. Our findings illustrate the complexity of microplastics as an emerging contaminant, and its scalability supports decision-makers globally to identify and prioritize management strategies to address the risks posed by plastics. Environmental implication: The hazardous nature of mismanaged plastics is an international concern. The negative impacts on the environment and human health are increasingly coming to light. Consequently, resource constraints limits the ability to address all problems. Our work adopts a holistic approach to evaluate the risk of harm from microplastics across the entire life cycle to allow for targeted management measures. The hazard assessment of common polymer types developed using a multi-criteria framework, presents a systematic approach to prioritize polymers at any scale. This allows for the development of optimal investments and interventions to ensure that high-risk environmental problems are addressed first.
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2022 |
Selvaraj PS, Periasamy K, Suganya K, Ramadass K, Muthusamy S, Ramesh P, et al., 'Novel resources recovery from anaerobic digestates: Current trends and future perspectives', Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology, 52 1915-1999 (2022) [C1] Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a well-known process with potential applications in the energy sector and waste management. The generation of digestate material during the AD process ... [more] Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a well-known process with potential applications in the energy sector and waste management. The generation of digestate material during the AD process is considered a waste material. Although agriculture is a significant end-user of digestate, the surplus nutrient content, agricultural crop requirements, escalating transport costs, regulatory demands, and market acceptance constitute significant hurdles for utilizing digestate in agriculture alone. Many new innovative technologies are being developed as alternative approaches for digestate management and related options. Anaerobic digestate incorporates versatile characteristics including essential plant nutrients, enzymes, extracellular polysaccharides and trace elements. These properties give the AD digestate much application potential when combined with the appropriate treatments and valorization process. Microbial bioconversion, fermentation, hydrothermal carbonization, pyrolysis, Vacuum thermal stripping, Nijhuis Ammonium Recovery, Electrodialysis, Trans Membrane Chemi Sorption, Osmotic membrane bioreactor, chemical precipitation, Catalytic decomposition are the important processes commonly used to valorize the AD digestate. The AD digestate can be used as an organic amendment in agriculture, a substrate for algae cultivation, nitrogen and phosphorus extraction, energy production, synthesis of hydrochar and pyrochar for pollutants adsorption, energy storage and conversion, synthesis of various carbon and doped metal nanoparticles for photocatalytic activity and production of high-value chemicals. Among the multiple avenues open to applied research, some are entirely new. Hence, this review aims to incorporate recent research trends in AD digestate valorization, and subsequently generate knowledge on the preparation of novel products applicable to various sectors.
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2021 |
Benson NU, Bassey DE, Palanisami T, 'COVID pollution: impact of COVID-19 pandemic on global plastic waste footprint', Heliyon, 7 (2021) [C1] Plastic products have played significant roles in protecting people during the COVID-19 pandemic. The widespread use of personal protective gear created a massive disruption in th... [more] Plastic products have played significant roles in protecting people during the COVID-19 pandemic. The widespread use of personal protective gear created a massive disruption in the supply chain and waste disposal system. Millions of discarded single-use plastics (masks, gloves, aprons, and bottles of sanitizers) have been added to the terrestrial environment and could cause a surge in plastics washing up the ocean coastlines and littering the seabed. This paper attempts to assess the environmental footprints of the global plastic wastes generated during COVID-19 and analyze the potential impacts associated with plastic pollution. The amount of plastic wastes generated worldwide since the outbreak is estimated at 1.6 million tonnes/day. We estimate that approximately 3.4 billion single-use facemasks/face shields are discarded daily as a result of COVID-19 pandemic, globally. Our comprehensive data analysis does indicate that COVID-19 will reverse the momentum of years-long global battle to reduce plastic waste pollution. As governments are looking to turbo-charge the economy by supporting businesses weather the pandemic, there is an opportunity to rebuild new industries that can innovate new reusable or non-plastic PPEs. The unanticipated occurrence of a pandemic of this scale has resulted in unmanageable levels of biomedical plastic wastes. This expert insight attempts to raise awareness for the adoption of dynamic waste management strategies targeted at reducing environmental contamination by plastics generated during the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19; Single-use plastics; Biomedical plastic waste; Plastic pollution; Effective; waste management
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2021 |
Singh G, Lee JM, Kothandam G, Palanisami T, Al-Muhtaseb AH, Karakoti A, et al., 'A Review on the Synthesis and Applications of Nanoporous Carbons for the Removal of Complex Chemical Contaminants', BULLETIN OF THE CHEMICAL SOCIETY OF JAPAN, 94 1232-1257 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Bhagwat G, Tran TKA, Lamb D, Senathirajah K, Grainge I, O Connor W, et al., 'Biofilms Enhance the Adsorption of Toxic Contaminants on Plastic Microfibers under Environmentally Relevant Conditions', Environmental Science and Technology, 55 8877-8887 (2021) [C1] Microplastics (MPs) exposed to the natural environment provide an ideal surface for biofilm formation, which potentially acts as a reactive phase facilitating the sorption of haza... [more] Microplastics (MPs) exposed to the natural environment provide an ideal surface for biofilm formation, which potentially acts as a reactive phase facilitating the sorption of hazardous contaminants. Until now, changes in the contaminant sorption capacity of MPs due to biofilm formation have not been quantified. This is the first study that compared the capacity of naturally aged, biofilm-covered microplastic fibers (BMFs) to adsorb perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and lead (Pb) at environmentally relevant concentrations. Changes in the surface properties and morphology of aged microplastic fibers (MF) were studied by surface area analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Results revealed that aged MFs exhibited higher surface areas because of biomass accumulation compared to virgin samples and followed the order polypropylene>polyethylene>nylon>polyester. The concentrations of adsorbed Pb and PFOS were 4-25% and 20-85% higher in aged MFs and varied among the polymer types. The increased contaminant adsorption was linked with the altered surface area and the hydrophobic/hydrophilic characteristics of the samples. Overall, the present study demonstrates that biofilms play a decisive role in contaminant-plastic interactions and significantly enhance the vector potential of MFs for toxic environmental contaminants. We anticipate that knowledge generated from this study will help refine the planetary risk assessment of MPs.
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2021 |
Bhagwat G, Carbery M, Anh Tran TK, Grainge I, O'Connor W, Palanisami T, 'Fingerprinting Plastic-Associated Inorganic and Organic Matter on Plastic Aged in the Marine Environment for a Decade', Environmental Science and Technology, 55 7407-7417 (2021) [C1] The long-term aging of plastic leads to weathering and biofouling that can influence the behavior and fate of plastic in the marine environment. This is the first study to fingerp... [more] The long-term aging of plastic leads to weathering and biofouling that can influence the behavior and fate of plastic in the marine environment. This is the first study to fingerprint the contaminant profiles and bacterial communities present in plastic-associated inorganic and organic matter (PIOM) isolated from 10 year-aged plastic. Plastic sleeves were sampled from an oyster aquaculture farm and the PIOM was isolated from the intertidal, subtidal, and sediment-buried segments to investigate the levels of metal(loid)s, polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), per-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and explore the microbial community composition. Results indicated that the PIOM present on long-term aged high-density polyethylene plastic harbored high concentrations of metal(loid)s, PAHs, and PFAS. Metagenomic analysis revealed that the bacterial composition in the PIOM differed by habitat type, which consisted of potentially pathogenic taxa including Vibrio, Shewanella, and Psychrobacter. This study provides new insights into PIOM as a potential sink for hazardous environmental contaminants and its role in enhancing the vector potential of plastic. Therefore, we recommend the inclusion of PIOM analysis in current biomonitoring regimes and that plastics be used with caution in aquaculture settings to safeguard valuable food resources, particularly in areas of point-source contamination.
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2021 |
Bhagwat G, O Connor W, Grainge I, Palanisami T, 'Understanding the Fundamental Basis for Biofilm Formation on Plastic Surfaces: Role of Conditioning Films', Frontiers in Microbiology, 12 (2021) [C1] Conditioning films (CFs) are surface coatings formed by the adsorption of biomolecules from the surrounding environment that can modify the material-specific surface properties an... [more] Conditioning films (CFs) are surface coatings formed by the adsorption of biomolecules from the surrounding environment that can modify the material-specific surface properties and precedes the attachment of microorganisms. Hence, CFs are a biologically relevant identity that could govern the behavior and fate of microplastics in the aquatic environment. In the present study, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polylactic acid (PLA) plastic cards were immersed in natural seawater to allow the formation of CFs. The changes in the surface roughness after 24 h were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the surface changes were visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The global elemental composition of the conditioned surface was investigated by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Results indicated that marine conditioning of PET and PLA samples for 24 h resulted in an increase of ~11 and 31% in the average surface roughness, respectively. SEM images revealed the attachment of coccoid-shaped bacterial cells on the conditioned surfaces, and the accumulation of salts of sodium and phosphate-containing precipitates was revealed through the EDS analysis. The results indicate that the increase in surface roughness due to conditioning is linked to a material¿s hydrophilicity leading to a rapid attachment of bacteria on the surfaces. Further investigations into the CFs can unfold crucial knowledge surrounding the plastic-microbe interaction that has implications for medical, industrial, and environmental research.
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2021 |
Senathirajah K, Attwood S, Bhagwat G, Carbery M, Wilson S, Palanisami T, 'Estimation of the mass of microplastics ingested A pivotal first step towards human health risk assessment', Journal of Hazardous Materials, 404 (2021) [C1] The ubiquitous presence of microplastics in the food web has been established. However, the mass of microplastics exposure to humans is not defined, impeding the human health risk... [more] The ubiquitous presence of microplastics in the food web has been established. However, the mass of microplastics exposure to humans is not defined, impeding the human health risk assessment. Our objectives were to extract the data from the available evidence on the number and mass of microplastics from various sources, to determine the uncertainties in the existing data, to set future research directions, and derive a global average rate of microplastic ingestion to assist in the development of human health risk assessments and effective management and policy options. To enable the comparison of microplastics exposure across a range of sources, data extraction and standardization was coupled with the adoption of conservative assumptions. Following the analysis of data from fifty-nine publications, an average mass for individual microplastics in the 0¿1 mm size range was calculated. Subsequently, we estimated that globally on average, humans may ingest 0.1¿5 g of microplastics weekly through various exposure pathways. This was the first attempt to transform microplastic counts into a mass value relevant to human toxicology. The determination of an ingestion rate is fundamental to assess the human health risks of microplastic ingestion. These findings will contribute to future human health risk assessment frameworks.
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2021 |
Zhang L, Ou C, Magana-Arachchi D, Vithanage M, Vanka KS, Palanisami T, et al., 'Indoor particulate matter in urban households: Sources, pathways, characteristics, health effects, and exposure mitigation', International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18 (2021) [C1] Particulate matter (PM) is a complex mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air with varying size, shape, and chemical composition which intensifies signi... [more] Particulate matter (PM) is a complex mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air with varying size, shape, and chemical composition which intensifies significant concern due to severe health effects. Based on the well-established human health effects of outdoor PM, health-based standards for outdoor air have been promoted (e.g., the National Ambient Air Quality Standards formulated by the U.S.). Due to the exchange of indoor and outdoor air, the chemical composition of indoor particulate matter is related to the sources and components of outdoor PM. However, PM in the indoor environment has the potential to exceed outdoor PM levels. Indoor PM includes particles of outdoor origin that drift indoors and particles that originate from indoor activities, which include cooking, fireplaces, smoking, fuel combustion for heating, human activities, and burning incense. Indoor PM can be enriched with inorganic and organic contaminants, including toxic heavy metals and carcinogenic volatile organic compounds. As a potential health hazard, indoor exposure to PM has received increased attention in recent years because people spend most of their time indoors. In addition, as the quantity, quality, and scope of the research have expanded, it is necessary to conduct a systematic review of indoor PM. This review discusses the sources, pathways, characteristics, health effects, and exposure mitigation of indoor PM. Practical solutions and steps to reduce exposure to indoor PM are also discussed.
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2021 |
Bhagwat G, Zhu Q, O'Connor W, Subashchandrabose S, Grainge I, Knight R, Palanisami T, 'Exploring the Composition and Functions of Plastic Microbiome Using Whole-Genome Sequencing', Environmental Science and Technology, 55 4899-4913 (2021) [C1] Besides the ecotoxicological consequences of microplastics and associated chemicals, the association of microbes on plastics has greater environmental implications as microplastic... [more] Besides the ecotoxicological consequences of microplastics and associated chemicals, the association of microbes on plastics has greater environmental implications as microplastics may select for unique microbiome participating in environmentally significant functions. Despite this, the functional potential of the microbiome associated with different types of plastics is understudied. Here, we investigate the interaction between plastic and marine biofilm-forming microorganisms through a whole-genome sequencing approach on four types of microplastics incubated in the marine environment. Taxonomic analysis suggested that the microplastic surfaces exhibit unique microbial profiles and niche partitioning among the substrates. In particular, the abundance of Vibrio alginolyticus and Vibrio campbellii suggested that microplastic pollution may pose a potential risk to the marine food chain and negatively impact aquaculture industries. Microbial genera involved in xenobiotic compound degradation, carbon cycling, and genes associated with the type IV secretion system, conjugal transfer protein TraG, plant-pathogen interaction, CusA/CzcA family heavy metal efflux transfer proteins, and TolC family proteins were significantly enriched on all the substrates, indicating the variety of processes operated by the plastic-microbiome. The present study gives a detailed characterization of the rapidly altering microbial composition and gene pools on plastics and adds new knowledge surrounding the environmental ramifications of marine plastic pollution.
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2020 |
Carbery M, MacFarlane GR, O'Connor W, Afrose S, Taylor H, Palanisami T, 'Baseline analysis of metal(loid)s on microplastics collected from the Australian shoreline using citizen science', Marine Pollution Bulletin, 152 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Sathishkumar P, Meena RAA, Palanisami T, Ashokkumar V, Palvannan T, Gu FL, 'Occurrence, interactive effects and ecological risk of diclofenac in environmental compartments and biota - a review', Science of the Total Environment, 698 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Karuppasamy PK, Ravi A, Vasudevan L, Elangovan MP, Dyana Mary P, Vincent SGT, Palanisami T, 'Baseline survey of micro and mesoplastics in the gastro-intestinal tract of commercial fish from Southeast coast of the Bay of Bengal', Marine Pollution Bulletin, 153 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Raju S, Carbery M, Kuttykattil A, Senthirajah K, Lundmark A, Rogers Z, et al., 'Improved methodology to determine the fate and transport of microplastics in a secondary wastewater treatment plant', WATER RESEARCH, 173 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Idowu O, Semple KT, Ramadass K, O'Connor W, Hansbro P, Thavamani P, 'Analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their polar derivatives in soils of an industrial heritage city of Australia', Science of the Total Environment, 699 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Idowu O, Tran TKA, Baker P, Farrel H, Zammit A, Semple KT, et al., 'Bioavailability of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) to the Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea glomerata) from sediment matrices of an economically important Australian estuary', Science of the Total Environment, 736 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Bhagwat G, Gray K, Wilson SP, Muniyasamy S, Vincent SGT, Bush R, Palanisami T, 'Benchmarking Bioplastics: A Natural Step Towards a Sustainable Future', Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 28 3055-3075 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Idowu O, Carbery M, O'Connor W, Thavamani P, 'Speciation and source apportionment of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) in sediments of the largest salt water lake of Australia', Chemosphere, 246 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Fred-Ahmadu OH, Bhagwat G, Oluyoye I, Benson NU, Ayejuyo OO, Palanisami T, 'Interaction of chemical contaminants with microplastics: Principles and perspectives', Science of the Total Environment, 706 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Idowu O, Tran TKA, Webster G, Chapman I, Baker P, Farrel H, et al., 'Quantitative biomonitoring of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) using the Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea glomerata)', Science of the Total Environment, 742 (2020) [C1]
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2019 |
Subashchandrabose SR, Venkateswarlu K, Venkidusamy K, Palanisami T, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Bioremediation of soil long-term contaminated with PAHs by algal bacterial synergy of Chlorella sp. MM3 and Rhodococcus wratislaviensis strain 9 in slurry phase', Science of the Total Environment, 659 724-731 (2019) [C1]
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2019 |
Idowu O, Semple KT, Ramadass K, O'Connor W, Hansbro P, Thavamani P, 'Beyond the obvious: Environmental health implications of polar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons', ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL, 123 543-557 (2019) [C1]
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2018 |
Behera BK, Das A, Sarkar DJ, Weerathunge P, Parida PK, Das BK, et al., 'Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in inland aquatic ecosystems: Perils and remedies through biosensors and bioremediation.', Environmental Pollution, 241 212-233 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Lam CS, Ramanathan S, Carbery M, Gray K, Vanka KS, Maurin C, et al., 'A Comprehensive Analysis of Plastics and Microplastic Legislation Worldwide', Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 229 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Nirola R, Megharaj M, Subramanian A, Thavamani P, Ramadass K, Aryal R, Saint C, 'Analysis of chromium status in the revegetated flora of a tannery waste site and microcosm studies using earthworm E. fetida', Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 25 5063-5070 (2018) [C1] Chromium from tannery waste dump site causes significant environmental pollution affecting surrounding flora and fauna. The primary aims of this study were to survey vegetation, i... [more] Chromium from tannery waste dump site causes significant environmental pollution affecting surrounding flora and fauna. The primary aims of this study were to survey vegetation, investigate the degree of soil pollution occurring near tannery waste dump site and make a systematic evaluation of soil contamination based on the chromium levels found in plants and earthworms from the impacted areas. This paper presents the pollution load of toxic heavy metals, and especially chromium, in 10 soil samples and 12 species of plants. Soil samples were analysed for heavy metals by using ICP-MS/ICP-OES method. Results indicated that Cr in soils exceeded soil quality guideline limits (SQGL). The total chromium present in the above ground parts of plants ranged from 1.7¿mg¿kg-1 in Casuarina sp.¿to 1007¿mg¿kg-1 in Sonchus asper. The Cr bioaccumulation in Eisenia fetida from tannery waste soil ranged from 5 to 194¿mg¿kg-1. The high enrichment factor of Cr in S. asper and bioaccumulation factor in earthworms indicate that there is a steady increase of toxic chromium risk in this area, which could be correlated with the past dumping activity. Emphasis needs to be put on control measures of pollution and remediation techniques in such areas to achieve an ecologically sustainable industrialisation.
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2018 |
Raju S, Carbery M, Kuttykattil A, Senathirajah K, Subashchandrabose SR, Evans G, Thavamani P, 'Transport and fate of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants: implications to environmental health', Reviews in Environmental Science and Biotechnology, 17 637-653 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Carbery M, O'Connor W, Thavamani P, 'Trophic transfer of microplastics and mixed contaminants in the marine food web and implications for human health', ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL, 115 400-409 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Selvakumar R, Ramadoss G, Mridula PM, Rajendran K, Thavamani P, Ravi N, Megharaj M, 'Challenges and complexities in remediation of uranium contaminated soils: A review', Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, 192 592-603 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Nirola R, Biswas B, Megharaj M, Subramanian A, Thavamani P, Aryal R, Saint C, 'Assessment of chromium hyper-accumulative behaviour using biochemical analytical techniques of greenhouse cultivated Sonchus asper on tannery waste dump site soils', Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 25 26992-26999 (2018) [C1]
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2017 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Singh S, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) degradation potential, surfactant production, metal resistance and enzymatic activity of two novel cellulose-degrading bacteria isolated from koala faeces', ENVIRONMENTAL EARTH SCIENCES, 76 (2017) [C1]
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2017 |
Thavamani P, Samkumar RA, Satheesh V, Subashchandrabose SR, Ramadass K, Naidu R, et al., 'Microbes from mined sites: Harnessing their potential for reclamation of derelict mine sites', Environmental Pollution, 230 495-505 (2017) [C1]
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2017 |
Kuppusamy S, Venkateswarlu K, Thavamani P, Lee YB, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Quercus robur acorn peel as a novel coagulating adsorbent for cationic dye removal from aquatic ecosystems', ECOLOGICAL ENGINEERING, 101 3-8 (2017) [C1]
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2017 |
Wijayawardena MAA, Naidu R, Megharaj M, Lamb D, Thavamani P, Kuchel T, 'Evaluation of relative bioaccessibility leaching procedure for an assessment of lead bioavailability in mixed metal contaminated soils', Environmental Technology and Innovation, 7 229-238 (2017) [C1] This study investigates the effect of contaminant zinc (Zn) on lead (Pb) bioavailability and bioaccessibility in six contrasting soils spiked with 1500 mg Pb/kg and aged 12 months... [more] This study investigates the effect of contaminant zinc (Zn) on lead (Pb) bioavailability and bioaccessibility in six contrasting soils spiked with 1500 mg Pb/kg and aged 12 months under laboratory conditions. Zn was added to the soils (7500 mgZn/kg soil) and aged for a further two weeks. In vivo studies were conducted using juvenile swine as a surrogate model for young children. Two compartment pharmacokinetic models were used to analyze the biological response produced by Pb oral solution and spiked soils. Absolute and relative bioavailability of Pb in soils (oral dose of 100 µ g Pb/kg body weight/day) were estimated by comparing them with intravenously administered soluble Pb salt (25 µ g Pb/kg/day) and orally administered the same Pb salt [Pb acetate =(CH3COO)2Pb·3H2O] administered to 3 juvenile pigs per treatment. Lead bioaccessibility was calculated using the in vitro RBALP (i.e. relative bioaccessibility leaching procedure) method. The in vitro results of RBALP were compared to in vivo relative Pb bioavailability to ascertain whether the changes in bioaccessibility correlated with the in vivo data. Although the in vivo Pb relative bioavailability (RB) in all soils except in MLA (Mount Lofty Acidic) revealed an increase (18%¿159%) in the presence of Zn, the in vitro RBALP bioaccessibility results indicated otherwise (1%¿38% decrease). In vivo RB of Pb in MLA declined by 37% in the presence of Zn. However, the RBALP in vitro bioaccessible Pb did not correlate with the relative bioavailabilities of Pb in the juvenile swine dosing experiment. Caution is therefore needed when predicting Pb bioavailability/bioaccessibility in the presence of metal mixtures. The literature contains much information on the correlation of metal and metalloid bioaccessibility with their bioavailability. There is, however, a paucity of studies investigating the effects of other metals on Pb and their IVIVC (in vitro and in vivo correlations). The current study addresses this knowledge gap by assessing in vivoand in vitro bioavailability of Pb in the presence of Zn.
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2017 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Venkateswarlu K, Lee YB, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Remediation approaches for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contaminated soils: Technological constraints, emerging trends and future directions', CHEMOSPHERE, 168 944-968 (2017) [C1]
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2016 |
Subramaniyam V, Subashchandrabose SR, Thavamani P, Chen Z, Krishnamurti GSR, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Toxicity and bioaccumulation of iron in soil microalgae', Journal of Applied Phycology, 28 2767-2776 (2016) [C1] Microalgae are extensively used in the remediation of heavy metals like iron. However, factors like toxicity, bioavailability and iron speciation play a major role in its removal ... [more] Microalgae are extensively used in the remediation of heavy metals like iron. However, factors like toxicity, bioavailability and iron speciation play a major role in its removal by microalgae. Thus, in this study, toxicity of three different iron salts (FeSO4, FeCl3 and Fe(NO3)3) was evaluated towards three soil microalgal isolates, Chlorella sp. MM3, Chlamydomonas sp. MM7 and Chlorococcum sp. MM11. Interestingly, all the three iron salts gave different EC50 concentrations; however, ferric nitrate was found to be significantly more toxic followed by ferrous sulphate and ferric chloride. The EC50 analysis revealed that Chlorella sp. was significantly resistant to iron compared to other microalgae. However, almost 900¿µg¿g-1 iron was accumulated by Chlamydomonas sp. grown with 12¿mg¿L-1 ferric nitrate as an iron source when compared to other algae and iron salts. The time-course bioaccumulation confirmed that all the three microalgae adsorb the ferric salts such as ferric nitrate and ferric chloride more rapidly than ferrous salt, whereas intracellular accumulation was found to be rapid for ferrous salts. However, the amount of iron accumulated or adsorbed by algae, irrespective of species, from ferrous sulphate medium is comparatively lower than ferric chloride and ferric nitrate medium. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis shows that the oxygen atom and P = O group of polysaccharides present in the cell wall of algae played a major role in the bioaccumulation of iron ions by algae.
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2016 |
Nirola R, Megharaj M, Saint C, Aryal R, Thavamani P, Venkateswarlu K, et al., 'Metal bioavailability to Eisenia fetida through copper mine dwelling animal and plant litter, a new challenge on contaminated environment remediation', INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION, 113 208-216 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Oak (Quercus robur) Acorn Peel as a Low-Cost Adsorbent for Hexavalent Chromium Removal from Aquatic Ecosystems and Industrial Effluents', Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 227 (2016) [C1] The efficiency of low-cost, abundantly available local forestry waste, oak (Quercus robur) acorn peel (OP), to remove toxic Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions was studied in a batch sy... [more] The efficiency of low-cost, abundantly available local forestry waste, oak (Quercus robur) acorn peel (OP), to remove toxic Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions was studied in a batch system as a function of contact time, adsorbate concentration, adsorbent dosage, and pH. In an equilibrium time of 420 min, the maximum Cr removal by OP at pH 2 and 10 was 100 and 97 %, respectively. The sorption data fitted well with Langmuir adsorption model. Evaluation using Langmuir expression presented a monolayer sorption capacity of 47.39 mg g-1 with an equilibrium sorbent dose of 5 g L-1 and pH 7. Uptake of Cr by OP was described by pseudo-second-order chemisorption model. ICP-OES, LC-ICPMS analysis of the aqueous and solid phases revealed that the mechanism of Cr(VI) removal is by 'integrated adsorption and reduction' mechanism. ESEM-EDX and XRD analysis of OP before and after adsorption also confirmed that both adsorption and reduction of Cr(VI) to less toxic Cr3+ forms followed by complexation onto the adsorbent surface contributed to the removal of Cr(VI). Consistent with batch studies, OP effectively removed (>95 %) Cr from the real water samples collected from lake and sea. The results of this study illustrate that OP could be an economical, green, and effective biomaterial for Cr(VI) removal from natural aquatic ecosystems and industrial effluents.
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Pyrosequencing analysis of bacterial diversity in soils contaminated long-term with PAHs and heavy metals: Implications to bioremediation', Journal of Hazardous Materials, 317 169-179 (2016) [C1] Diversity, distribution and composition of bacterial community of soils contaminated long-term with both polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals were explored for... [more] Diversity, distribution and composition of bacterial community of soils contaminated long-term with both polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals were explored for the first time following 454 pyrosequencing. Strikingly, the complete picture of the Gram positive (+ve) and Gram negative (-ve) bacterial profile obtained in our study illustrates novel postulates that include: (1) Metal-tolerant and PAH-degrading Gram -ves belonging to the class Alphaproteobacteria persist relatively more in the real contaminated sites compared to Gram +ves, (2) Gram +ves are not always resistant to heavy metal toxicity, (3) Stenotrophomonas followed by Burkholderia and Pseudomonas are the dominant genera of PAH degraders with high metabolic activity in long-term contaminated soils, (4) Actinobacteria is the predominant group among the Gram +ves in soils contaminated with high molecular weight PAHs that co-exist with toxic heavy metals like Pb, Cu and Zn, (5) Microbial communities are nutrient-driven in natural environments and (6) Catabolically potential Gram +/-ves with diverse applicability to remediate the real contaminated sites evolve eventually in the historically-polluted soils. Thus, the most promising indigenous Gram +/-ve strains from the long-term contaminated sites with increased catabolic potential, enzymatic activity and metal tolerance need to be harnessed for mixed contaminant cleanups.
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2016 |
Bolan S, Naidu R, Kunhikrishnan A, Seshadri B, Ok YS, Palanisami T, et al., 'Speciation and bioavailability of lead in complementary medicines', Science of the Total Environment, 539 304-312 (2016) [C1] Complementary medicines have associated risks which include toxic heavy metal(loid) and pesticide contamination. The objective of this study was to examine the speciation and bioa... [more] Complementary medicines have associated risks which include toxic heavy metal(loid) and pesticide contamination. The objective of this study was to examine the speciation and bioavailability of lead (Pb) in selected complementary medicines. Six herbal and six ayurvedic medicines were analysed for: (i) total heavy metal(loid) contents including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), Pb and mercury (Hg); (ii) speciation of Pb using sequential fractionation and extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) techniques; and (iii) bioavailability of Pb using a physiologically-based in vitro extraction test (PBET). The daily intake of Pb through the uptake of these medicines was compared with the safety guidelines for Pb. The results indicated that generally ayurvedic medicines contained higher levels of heavy metal(loid)s than herbal medicines with the amount of Pb much higher than the other metal(loid)s. Sequential fractionation indicated that while organic-bound Pb species dominated the herbal medicines, inorganic-bound Pb species dominated the ayurvedic medicines. EXAFS data indicated the presence of various Pb species in ayurvedic medicines. This implies that Pb is derived from plant uptake and inorganic mineral input in herbal and ayurvedic medicines, respectively. Bioavailability of Pb was higher in ayurvedic than herbal medicines, indicating that Pb added as a mineral therapeutic input is more bioavailable than that derived from plant uptake. There was a positive relationship between soluble Pb fraction and bioavailability indicating that solubility is an important factor controlling bioavailability. The daily intake values for Pb as estimated by total and bioavailable metal(loid) contents are likely to exceed the safe threshold level in certain ayurvedic medicines. This research demonstrated that Pb toxicity is likely to result from the regular intake of these medicines which requires further investigation.
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2016 |
Abbasian F, Lockington R, Palanisami T, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Multiwall carbon nanotubes increase the microbial community in crude oil contaminated fresh water sediments', Science of the Total Environment, 539 370-380 (2016) [C1] Since crude oil contamination is one of the biggest environmental concerns, its removal from contaminated sites is of interest for both researchers and industries. In situ bioreme... [more] Since crude oil contamination is one of the biggest environmental concerns, its removal from contaminated sites is of interest for both researchers and industries. In situ bioremediation is a promising technique for decreasing or even eliminating crude oil and hydrocarbon contamination. However, since these compounds are potentially toxic for many microorganisms, high loads of contamination can inhibit the microbial community and therefore reduce the removal rate. Therefore, any strategy with the ability to increase the microbial population in such circumstances can be of promise in improving the remediation process. In this study, multiwall carbon nanotubes were employed to support microbial growth in sediments contaminated with crude oil. Following spiking of fresh water sediments with different concentrations of crude oil alone and in a mixture with carbon nanotubes for 30. days, the microbial profiles in these sediments were obtained using FLX-pyrosequencing. Next, the ratios of each member of the microbial population in these sediments were compared with those values in the untreated control sediment. This study showed that combination of crude oil and carbon nanotubes can increase the diversity of the total microbial population. Furthermore, these treatments could increase the ratios of several microorganisms that are known to be effective in the degradation of hydrocarbons.
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2016 |
Abbasian F, Palanisami T, Megharaj M, Naidu R, Lockington R, Ramadass K, 'Microbial diversity and hydrocarbon degrading gene capacity of a crude oil field soil as determined by metagenomics analysis', Biotechnology Progress, 32 638-648 (2016) [C1] © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Soils contaminated with crude oil are rich sources of enzymes suitable for both degradation of hydrocarbons through bioremediation ... [more] © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Soils contaminated with crude oil are rich sources of enzymes suitable for both degradation of hydrocarbons through bioremediation processes and improvement of crude oil during its refining steps. Due to the long term selection, crude oil fields are unique environments for the identificati on of microorganisms with the ability to produce these enzymes. In this metagenomic study, based on Hiseq Illumina sequencing of samples obtained from a crude oil field and analysis of data on MG-RAST, Actinomycetales (9.8%) were found to be the dominant microorganisms, followed by Rhizobiales (3.3%). Furthermore, several functional genes were found in this study, mostly belong to Actinobacteria (12.35%), which have a role in the metabolism of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons (2.51%), desulfurization (0.03%), element shortage (5.6%), and resistance to heavy metals (1.1%). This information will be useful for assisting in the application of microorganisms in the removal of hydrocarbon contamination and/or for improving the quality of crude oil. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:638¿648, 2016.
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2016 |
Venkateswarlu K, Nirola R, Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Abandoned metalliferous mines: ecological impacts and potential approaches for reclamation', Reviews in Environmental Science and Biotechnology, 15 327-354 (2016) [C1] The lack of awareness for timely management of the environment surrounding a metal mine site results in several adverse consequences such as rampant business losses, abandoning th... [more] The lack of awareness for timely management of the environment surrounding a metal mine site results in several adverse consequences such as rampant business losses, abandoning the bread-earning mining industry, domestic instability and rise in ghost towns, increased environmental pollution, and indirect long-term impacts on the ecosystem. Although several abandoned mine lands (AMLs) exist globally, information on these derelict mines has not been consolidated in the literature. We present here the state-of-the-art on AMLs in major mining countries with emphasis on their impact towards soil health and biodiversity, remediation methods, and laws governing management of mined sites. While reclamation of metalliferous mines by phytoremediation is still a suitable option, there exist several limitations for its implementation. However, many issues of phytoremediation at the derelict mines can be resolved following phytostabilization, a technology that is effective also at the modern operational mine sites. The use of transgenic plant species in phytoremediation of metals in contaminated sites is also gaining momentum. In any case, monitoring and efficacy testing for bioremediation of mined sites is essential. The approaches for reclamation of metalliferous mines such as environmental awareness, effective planning and assessment of pre- and post-mining activities, implementation of regulations, and a safe and good use of phytostabilizers among the native plants for revegetation and ecological restoration are discussed in detail in the present review. We also suggest the use of microbially-enhanced phytoremediation and nanotechnology for efficient reclamation of AMLs, and identify future work warranted in this area of research. Further, we believe that the integration of science of remediation with mining policies and regulations is a reliable option which when executed can virtually balance economic development and environmental destruction for safer future.
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Bioaugmentation with Novel Microbial Formula vs. Natural Attenuation of a Long-Term Mixed Contaminated Soil - Treatability Studies in Solid- and Slurry-Phase Microcosms', Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 227 (2016) [C1] Treatability studies in real contaminated soils are essential to predict the feasibility of microbial consortium augmentation for field-scale bioremediation of contaminated sites.... [more] Treatability studies in real contaminated soils are essential to predict the feasibility of microbial consortium augmentation for field-scale bioremediation of contaminated sites. In this study, the biodegradation of a mixture of seven PAHs in a manufactured gas plant (MGP) soil contaminated with 3967 mg kg-1 of total PAHs using novel acid-, metal-tolerant, N-fixing, P-solubilizing, and biosurfactant-producing LMW and HMW PAH-degrading bacterial combinations as inoculums was compared in slurry- and solid-phase microcosms over natural attenuation. Bioaugmentation of 5 % of bacterial consortia A and N in slurry- and solid-phase systems enhanced 4.6-5.7 and 9.3-10.7 % of total PAH degradation, respectively, over natural attenuation. Occurrence of 62.7-88 % of PAH biodegradation during natural attenuation in soil and slurry illustrated the accelerated rate of intrinsic metabolic activity of the autochthonous microbial community in the selected MGP soil. Monitoring of the total microbial activity and population of PAH degraders revealed that the observed biodegradation trend in MGP soil resulted from microbial mineralization. In the slurry, higher biodegradation rate constant (k) and lower half-life values (t 1/2) was observed during bioaugmentation with consortium N, highlighting the use of bioaugmentation in bioslurries/bioreactor to achieve rapid and efficient bioremediation compared to that of a static solid system. In general, natural attenuation was on par with bioaugmentation. Hence, depending on the type of soil, natural attenuation might outweigh bioaugmentation and a careful investigation using laboratory treatability studies are highly recommended before the upscale of a developed bioremediation strategy to field level.
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Nirola R, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Assessment of antioxidant activity, minerals, phenols and flavonoid contents of common plant/tree waste extracts', INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS, 83 630-634 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Ramadass K, Palanisami T, Smith E, Mayilswami S, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Earthworm Comet Assay for Assessing the Risk of Weathered Petroleum Hydrocarbon Contaminated Soils: Need to Look Further than Target Contaminants', Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 71 561-571 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Subramaniyam V, Subashchandrabose SR, Ganeshkumar V, Thavamani P, Chen Z, Naidu R, Megharaj M, 'Cultivation of Chlorella on brewery wastewater and nano-particle biosynthesis by its biomass', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, 211 698-703 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Isolation and characterization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) degrading, pH tolerant, N-fixing and P-solubilizing novel bacteria from manufactured gas plant (MGP) site soils', Environmental Technology and Innovation, 6 204-219 (2016) [C1] Dearth of high molecular weight contaminant degradation, pH tolerance and growth limiting nutrient assimilation potentials of the selected microorganisms are some of the prime fac... [more] Dearth of high molecular weight contaminant degradation, pH tolerance and growth limiting nutrient assimilation potentials of the selected microorganisms are some of the prime factors reasonable for the failures in field-scale bioremediation of PAHs contaminated soils. Hence an effort was made in this study for the first time to identify HMW PAHs degrading, N-fixing and P-solubilizing bacteria with pH tolerance from long-term manufactured gas plant site soils. Four distinct strains that could degrade both LMW and HMW PAHs were identified. Among the isolates, Stenotrophomonas (MTS-2) followed by Citrobacter (MTS-3) and Pseudomonas (MTS-1) were furthermost effective in the degradation of HMW PAHs either as individual or in the presence of co-substrate (LMW PAHs). MTS-1, 2 and 3 (co)degraded model LMW PAHs, Phe (100% of 150 mg L-1) and HMW PAHs Pyr (100% of 150 mg L-1) or BaP (90¿100% of 50 mg L-1) in 3, 12¿15 and 30 days, respectively and recorded the least half-life time (t1/2) and highest biodegradation rate constants (k). One of the significant findings is the diazotrophic P-solubilization ability, acid and alkali tolerance (optimum pH=5.0¿8.0) of the HMW PAHs degrading Pseudomonas strain MTS-1. Stenotrophomonas (MTS-2) was also found to be superior as it could solubilize P and tolerate acidic condition (optimum pH=5.0¿7.5) during HMW PAHs degradation. Further, our study is the first evidence of diazotrophic P solubilization potential of Agrobacterium (MTS-4) and P-solubilizing capacity of Citrobacter (MTS-3) during bioremediation. Thus, the results of this study demonstrate the promising use of the newly identified PAH degraders, notably MTS-1, 2 and 3 either as individuals or as consortia as an excellent candidate in the bioremediation or phytoremediation of PAHs contaminated soils.
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Potential of Melaleuca diosmifolia leaf as a low-cost adsorbent for hexavalent chromium removal from contaminated water bodies', Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 100 173-182 (2016) [C1] The present study describes for the first time the utilization of dried twigs of Melaleuca diosmifolia, fallen off from the plant, to detoxify and remove hexavalent chromium or Cr... [more] The present study describes for the first time the utilization of dried twigs of Melaleuca diosmifolia, fallen off from the plant, to detoxify and remove hexavalent chromium or Cr(VI) from aqueous systems. Initial characterization by gas chromatography revealed that the selected biomaterial is one of the natural sources of eucalyptol. It constituted high concentrations of reducing compounds (iron, phenols and flavonoids). Batch studies revealed that the biosorbent (5 g L-1) was able to remove 97-99.9% of 250 mg L-1 Cr(VI) at wide-ranging pH (2-10) and temperature (24-48 °C). Adsorption kinetics was well described using the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, while the equilibrium adsorption data were interpreted in terms of the Langmuir isotherm model. The monolayer adsorption capacity was 62.5 mg g-1. Both inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry and liquid chromatography analyses of the aqueous and solid phases revealed that the mechanism of Cr(VI) removal was 'adsorption-coupled reduction'. Scanning electron microscope, infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses of the biosorbent before and after adsorption also confirmed that both adsorption and reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) followed by complexation onto functional groups of the active surface contributed to the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. The selected biomaterial effectively (99.9%) removed Cr(VI) in lake and sea water samples, highlighting its potential for remediating Cr(VI) in real environmental conditions.
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2016 |
Abbasi S, Lamb DT, Palanisami T, Kader M, Matanitobua V, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Bioaccessibility of barium from barite contaminated soils based on gastric phase in vitro data and plant uptake', Chemosphere, 144 1421-1427 (2016) [C1] Barite contamination of soil commonly occurs from either barite mining or explorative drilling operations. This work reported in vitro data for barite contaminated soils using the... [more] Barite contamination of soil commonly occurs from either barite mining or explorative drilling operations. This work reported in vitro data for barite contaminated soils using the physiologically based extraction test (PBET) methodology. The existence of barite in plant tissue and the possibility of 'biomineralised' zones was also investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy. Soils with low barium (Ba) concentrations showed a higher proportion of Ba extractability than barite rich samples. Barium uptake to spinach from soil was different between short term spiking studies and field weathered soils. Furthermore, Ba crystals were not evident in spinach tissue or acid digest solutions grown in barium nitrate spiked soils despite high accumulation. Barite was found in the plant digest solutions from barite contaminated soils only. Results indicate that under the conservative assumptions made, a child would need to consume extreme quantities of soil over an extended period to cause chronic health problems.
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2016 |
Ramakrishnan P, Nagarajan S, Thiruvenkatam V, Palanisami T, Naidu R, Mallavarapu M, Rajendran S, 'Cation doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles enhance strontium adsorption from aqueous system: A comparative study with and without calcination', APPLIED CLAY SCIENCE, 134 136-144 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Nirola R, Megharaj M, Beecham S, Aryal R, Thavamani P, Vankateswarlu K, Saint C, 'Remediation of metalliferous mines, revegetation challenges and emerging prospects in semi-arid and arid conditions', ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH, 23 20131-20150 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Kinetics of PAH degradation by a new acid-metal-tolerant Trabulsiella isolated from the MGP site soil and identification of its potential to fix nitrogen and solubilize phosphorous', JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, 307 99-107 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) degradation potential of a new acid tolerant, diazotrophic P-solubilizing and heavy metal resistant bacterium Cupriavidus sp. MTS-7 isolated from long-term mixed contaminated soil', Chemosphere, 162 31-39 (2016) [C1] An isolate of Cupriavidus (strain MTS-7) was identified from a long-term PAHs and heavy metals mixed contaminated soil with the potential to biodegrade both LMW and HMW PAHs with ... [more] An isolate of Cupriavidus (strain MTS-7) was identified from a long-term PAHs and heavy metals mixed contaminated soil with the potential to biodegrade both LMW and HMW PAHs with added unique traits of acid and alkali tolerance, heavy metal tolerance, self-nutrient assimilation by N fixation and P solubilization. This strain completely degraded the model 3 (150¿mg¿L-1 Phe), 4 (150¿mg¿L-1 Pyr) and 5 (50¿mg¿L-1 BaP) ring PAHs in 4, 20 and 30 days, respectively. It could mineralize 90¿100% of PAHs (200¿mg¿L-1 of Phe and Pyr) within 15 days across pH ranging from 5 to 8 and even in the presence of toxic metal contaminations. During biodegradation, the minimum inhibitory concentrations were 5 (Cu2+) and 3 (Cd2+, Pb2+, Zn2+) mg L-1 of the potentially bioavailable metal ions and over 17¿mg¿L-1 metal levels was lethal for the microbe. Further, it could fix 217¿274¿µg¿mL-1 of N and solubilize 79¿135¿µg¿mL-1 of P while PAHs degradation. MTS-7 as a superior candidate could be thus used in the enhanced bioaugmentation and/or phytoremediation of long-term mixed contaminated sites.
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2016 |
Nirola R, Megharaj M, Aryal R, Thavamani P, Ramdass K, Sarkar B, Saint C, 'Stress responses and specific metal exclusion on mine soils based on germination and growth studies by Australian golden wattle', Ecological Indicators, 71 113-122 (2016) [C1] We reported the Australian golden wattle as a copper stabilizer in abandoned copper mine soils earlier. Here we investigate to confirm this plant's suitability to grow on met... [more] We reported the Australian golden wattle as a copper stabilizer in abandoned copper mine soils earlier. Here we investigate to confirm this plant's suitability to grow on metal contaminated mine soils based on stress indication. The seeds of Acacia pycnantha collected from mining area were germinated after heat and no heat treatment on two types of irrigation. The daily irrigated and heat treated seeds gave up to 85% germination on sandy soil. The A. pycnantha was grown under greenhouse condition in six different soils collected from abandoned copper mine at Kapunda in South Australia. Among the six soil samples, soil-1 with the highest copper concentration produced 2.05 mmol g-1 tissue of proline. Proline expression was prominent in more saline soils (1, 5 and 6) having electrical conductivity (EC) 1184, 1364 and 1256 µS, respectively. Chlorophyll a, b and carotenoid levels in plants showed a gradually decreasing trend in all the soils as experiment progressed. The plants grown on soil sample-1, containing 4083 ± 103 mg kg-1 of copper resulted in 18 ± 2 mg kg-1 accumulation in its leaf. The calcium accumulation was significant up to 11648 ± 1209 mg kg-1 in leaf. Although pore water samples showed higher Cu concentration in soils, an increased mobility of arsenic and lead was observed in all the soil samples. Our experiment points out the need for proper monitoring of revegetation processes to avoid revegetation and reclamation failure.
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2016 |
Solomon OO, Palanisami T, 'Microplastics in the Marine Environment: Current Status, Assessment Methodologies, Impacts and Solutions', Journal of Pollution Effects & Control, 4 1-13 (2016) [C1]
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Naidu R, 'Agronomic and remedial benefits and risks of applying biochar to soil: Current knowledge and future research directions', Environment International, 87 1-12 (2016) [C1] 'Biochar' represents an emerging technology that is increasingly being recognized for its potential role in carbon sequestration, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, wast... [more] 'Biochar' represents an emerging technology that is increasingly being recognized for its potential role in carbon sequestration, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, renewable energy, soil improvement, crop productivity enhancement and environmental remediation. Published reviews have so far focused mainly on the above listed agronomic and environmental benefits of applying biochar, yet paid little or no attention to its harmful effects on the ecological system. This review highlights a balanced overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the pyrolysis process of biochar production, end-product quality and the benefits versus drawbacks of biochar on: (a) soil geochemistry and albedo, (b) microflora and fauna, (c) agrochemicals, (d) greenhouse gas efflux, (e) nutrients, (f) crop yield, and (g) contaminants (organic and inorganic). Future research should focus more on the unintended long-term consequences of biochar on biological organisms and their processes in the soil.
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by novel bacterial consortia tolerant to diverse physical settings - Assessments in liquid- and slurry-phase systems', International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation, 108 149-157 (2016) [C1] Field-scale bioremediation of PAHs contaminated soils have proved to be difficult and challenging due to inhibited growth of PAH degrading microbes. In this study, for the first t... [more] Field-scale bioremediation of PAHs contaminated soils have proved to be difficult and challenging due to inhibited growth of PAH degrading microbes. In this study, for the first time mixed bacterial cultures designated as consortia-A and N were developed using elite metal or acid tolerant, N-fixing, P-solubilizing and biosurfactant producing PAH degraders enriched from manufactured gas plant sites. The two consortia could degrade both LMW and HMW PAHs. Kinetic studies of PAH degradation by the consortia showed the highest biodegradation rate constants (k = 0.027-0.61 day-1) and lowest half-life time (t1/2 = 1-26 days) values reported to date in liquid cultures and highlighted the use of consortium-A for the remediation of acidic soils due to its tolerance up to pH 5. Furthermore, bioaugmentation of these consortia has proven to be effective in degradation of LMW (>95%) and HMW (90%) PAHs from spiked soil slurries. Amendment of consortia-A and N exhibited 10.7 and 44.3% more total PAHs degradation, respectively than natural attenuation in 60 days even from the real long-term mixed contaminated soils. Thus the results of this study demonstrate the great potential of these novel bacterial consortia, particularly consortium-N for use in field-scale bioremediation of PAHs in long-term mixed contaminated neutral soils.
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2016 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Venkateswarlu K, Lee YB, Naidu R, 'Potential of Melaleuca diosmifolia as a novel, non-conventional and low-cost coagulating adsorbent for removing both cationic and anionic dyes', Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, 37 198-207 (2016) [C1] © 2016 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry.The potential of dried twigs of Melaleuca diosmifolia as a novel biosorbent for removing three cationic dyes, met... [more] © 2016 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry.The potential of dried twigs of Melaleuca diosmifolia as a novel biosorbent for removing three cationic dyes, methylene blue (MB), acridine orange (AO) and malachite green (MG), and an anionic dye, eriochrome black T (EB) was evaluated in a batch adsorption process. Notably, the biosorbent removed 77-99% of both cationic and anionic dyes in a wide ranging pH of 2-10, and the reactions were endothermic. The dye adsorption equilibria were rapidly attained within 3 h. The monolayer adsorption capacity of the sorbent added at 5 g L-1 was 119.05, 126.8, 116.28 and 94.34 mg g-1 for MB, AO, MG and EB, respectively. The water extract obtained from the plant material induced fast decolourization of both categories of dyes followed by gradual flocculation, indicating its potential as a natural coagulant. Gas chromatographic analysis also indicated that the main electrostatic attraction between 1,8-cineole, 1-p-methene-8-thiol and furfural compounds of the biomaterial, and dye molecules resulted in the formation of initial supramolecular complexes which further progressed into strong aggregates, leading to precipitation of dye-biomaterial complexes. Subsequently, the overall complex mechanism of dye removal was confirmed to be a combined process of adsorption and coagulation. Consistent with the batch studies, using selected plant material in real environmental water samples also resulted in effective dye removal, highlighting its potential for use in wastewater treatment.
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2015 |
Kuppusamy S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Bioremediation potential of natural polyphenol rich green wastes: A review of current research and recommendations for future directions', Environmental Technology and Innovation, 4 17-28 (2015) [C1] 'Green waste' (food, agro-industrial and forest residues) is a renowned valuable resource of polyphenols. Natural polyphenols are relatively efficient in the clean-up of... [more] 'Green waste' (food, agro-industrial and forest residues) is a renowned valuable resource of polyphenols. Natural polyphenols are relatively efficient in the clean-up of environmental pollutants based on their unique traits of chelation, adsorption, reduction, complexation, nutrient cycling, antibacterial effects and plant growth promotion. These significant traits have found emerging applications in the removal of heavy metals, pathogenic bacteria and dyes from contaminated soil and water through existing bioremedial techniques such as biosorption, phytoextraction and coagulation. Increasingly, polyphenol-rich natural extracts harnessed for green nanoparticle synthesis (production of particles between 1 and 100 nm in size using biological entities such as microorganisms or plant biomass) have found promising use as a remedial agent in the detoxification of toxic pollutants. However, current bioremediation approaches do not sufficiently exploit natural polyphenols, which are abundantly available and are non-toxic. This review examines the extent of natural polyphenol availability in green waste, and provides a critical view on the existing remedial options, knowledge gaps and hence scope for future research. It highlights the use of natural polyphenol-rich green wastes as nanofertilizers, bioamendments, biofilters and bacteriostats. Field application strategies such as microbe-assisted phytoremediation, bioaugmention and biostimulation are also emphasized, showing the multifunctional biotechnological potentials offered by natural polyphenols.
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2015 |
Thavamani P, Smith E, Kavitha R, Mathieson G, Megharaj M, Srivastava P, Naidu R, 'Risk based land management requires focus beyond the target contaminants-A case study involving weathered hydrocarbon contaminated soils', Environmental Technology and Innovation, 4 98-109 (2015) [C1] Irrespective of the nature of contamination, the use of total contaminant loading as a measure of risk together with conservative policy guidance is proving major stumbling block ... [more] Irrespective of the nature of contamination, the use of total contaminant loading as a measure of risk together with conservative policy guidance is proving major stumbling block towards remediation of contaminated sites. The objective of this study was to investigate the use of risk based approach to manage contaminated sites at field scale. This study recognizes the presence of weathered hydrocarbon compounds in long-term total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) contaminated soils and that such compounds may not pose risk to local receptors. A multispecies ecotoxicological assessment was used to determine the potential risk from weathered hydrocarbons to the surrounding environment. The ecotoxicity of soil residual TPHs was evaluated using earthworm, water-flea, two native and two non-native Australian plants, and soil microbial activity. Plant germination was 100% in all soils but post germination, seedlings except Ryegrass failed to establish. Earthworm toxicity studies found that there was a negative impact on earthworm reproduction and mortality. Further investigation of the poor plant growth and earthworm mortality revealed that it was due to the elevated salinity that developed due to surface evaporation of the saturated calcium sulphate and not residual soil TPHs. Toxicity assessment of the soil leachate on the aquatic environment showed no effect on the survival of water-flea even though the TPH concentrations in the first year leachate were as high as 1.6 mg TPH L-1. The study concluded that the residual TPHs in soils had little impact on a range of environmental receptors. Assessment of the residual TPH ecotoxicity was complicated by the elevated salinity of stockpile soils which impacted on the earthworm and phytotoxicity assessments. Therefore results of this study suggest that it is paramount to focus beyond target contaminants while implementing risk-based management approach. Indicators for risk based assessment are considered critical for regulatory decision making. The results of this study provide a valuable input in to the risk based management of contaminated sites.
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2015 |
Wijayawardena MAA, Naidu R, Megharaj M, Lamb D, Thavamani P, Kuchel T, 'Using soil properties to predict in vivo bioavailability of lead in soils', CHEMOSPHERE, 138 422-428 (2015) [C1]
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2015 |
Singh S, Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Multifarious activities of cellulose degrading bacteria from Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) faeces.', Journal of animal science and technology, 57 23 (2015) [C1]
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2015 |
Nirola R, Megharaj M, Palanisami T, Aryal R, Venkateswarlu K, Ravi Naidu, 'Evaluation of metal uptake factors of native trees colonizing an abandoned copper mine a quest for phytostabilization', Journal of Sustainable Mining, 14 115-123 (2015) Accumulation and enrichment of heavy metals in the above ground parts of Australian native Acacia pycnantha (Ap) and Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Ec) growing in an abandoned copper m... [more] Accumulation and enrichment of heavy metals in the above ground parts of Australian native Acacia pycnantha (Ap) and Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Ec) growing in an abandoned copper mine located in Kapunda, South Australia have been studied. Cu and other metals (Na, Al, K, Ca, Fe, Zn, Cd and Pb) in plants and corresponding soils were analysed to evaluate plant interaction with soils containing heavy metals. As per the total metal analysis of leaf and corresponding soil samples, Ap accumulated 93.6 mg kg-1 of Cu in leaf while the corresponding soil concentration was 1632 mg kg-1. The Ec accumulated 5341 mg kg-1 of Cu in leaf while the concentration of this heavy metal in soil was 65 mg kg-1 in soil. The ESEM spectral analysis also showed a high leaf concentration of Cu in Ec (7%) as against only 0.12% in Ap. The average bioconcentration factor for Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb in Ec was much higher than that of Ap. Similarly, enrichment factor was more in Ec for Cu, Zn and Pb than in Ap. In contrast, translocation factor for only Zn and Cd was high in Ap. This study points out that Ec and Ap have different stabilising potential in remediating heavy metals like Cu in mined soils.
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2015 |
Poorvisha R, Suriyaraj SP, Thavamani P, Naidu R, Megharaj M, Bhattacharyya A, Selvakumar R, 'Synthesis and characterisation of 3-dimensional hydroxyapatite nanostructures using a thermoplastic polyurethane nanofiber sacrificial template', RSC Advances, 5 97773-97780 (2015) [C1] In this study, we report a facile synthesis of shape controlled three dimensional hydroxyapatite nanostructures (HAp) using a sacrificial thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanofibe... [more] In this study, we report a facile synthesis of shape controlled three dimensional hydroxyapatite nanostructures (HAp) using a sacrificial thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanofiber template. The TPU nanofibers synthesised using an electrospinning process were used as a template during the HAp synthesis through a precipitation process. Various HAp morphologies including distinctly placed cylindrically porous HAp architecture, coral reef like, tightly packed fibrous sheet like and nanofiber like were synthesised using the TPU nanofiber template. All the synthesised HAp were characterized using appropriate techniques like Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) attached with selected area electron diffraction (SAED), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The morphology, pore arrangement and the particle size of the HAp varied significantly with varying dimensions of the template and the template available per unit area of HAp. Hence, we have achieved four different 3D HAp morphologies using a single type of TPU nanofiber template. The TPU templated HAp nanostructures were more biodegradable than the control HAp.
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2013 |
Lamb DT, Matanitobua VP, Palanisami T, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Bioavailability of Barium to Plants and Invertebrates in Soils Contaminated by Barite', ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, 47 4670-4676 (2013) [C1]
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2013 |
Naidu R, Channey R, McConnell S, Johnston N, Semple KT, McGrath S, et al., 'Towards bioavailability-based soil criteria: past, present and future perspectives', Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 1-7 (2013) Bioavailability has been used as a key indicator in chemical risk assessment yet poorly quantified risk factor. Worldwide, the framework used to assess potentially contaminated si... [more] Bioavailability has been used as a key indicator in chemical risk assessment yet poorly quantified risk factor. Worldwide, the framework used to assess potentially contaminated sites is similar, and the decisions are based on threshold contaminant concentration. The uncertainty in the definition and measurement of bioavailability had limited its application to environment risk assessment and remediation. Last ten years have seen major developments in bioavailability research and acceptance. The use of bioavailability in the decision making process as one of the key variables has led to a gradual shift towards a more sophisticated risk-based approach. Now a days, many decision makers and regulatory organisations 'more readily accept' this concept. Bioavailability should be the underlying basis for risk assessment and setting remediation goals of those contaminated sites that pose risk to environmental and human health. This paper summarises the potential application of contaminant bioavailability and bioaccessibility to the assessment of sites affected by different contaminants, and the potential for this to be the underlying basis for sustainable risk assessment and remediation in Europe, North America and Australia over the coming decade. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.
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2012 |
Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Multivariate analysis of mixed contaminants (PAHs and heavy metals) at manufactured gas plant site soils', ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT, 184 3875-3885 (2012)
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2012 |
Thavamani P, Malik S, Beer M, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Microbial activity and diversity in long-term mixed contaminated soils with respect to polyaromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals', JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, 99 10-17 (2012)
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2012 |
Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Naidu R, 'Bioremediation of high molecular weight polyaromatic hydrocarbons co-contaminated with metals in liquid and soil slurries by metal tolerant PAHs degrading bacterial consortium', BIODEGRADATION, 23 823-835 (2012)
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2011 |
Thavamani P, Megharaj M, Krishnamurti GSR, McFarland R, Naidu R, 'Finger printing of mixed contaminants from former manufactured gas plant (MGP) site soils: Implications to bioremediation', ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL, 37 184-189 (2011) [C1]
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2008 |
Rajakumar S, Ayyasamy PM, Shanthi K, Thavamani P, Velmurugan P, Song YC, Lakshmanaperumalsamy P, 'Nitrate removal efficiency of bacterial consortium (Pseudomonas sp. KW1 and Bacillus sp. YW4) in synthetic nitrate-rich water', Journal of Hazardous Materials, 157 553-563 (2008) The efficiency of bacterial isolates to reduce nitrate from synthetic nitrate-rich water was tested using a batch scale process. Two efficient nitrate reducing bacterial species w... [more] The efficiency of bacterial isolates to reduce nitrate from synthetic nitrate-rich water was tested using a batch scale process. Two efficient nitrate reducing bacterial species were isolated from water samples collected from Kodaikanal and Yercaud lakes. Bacterial analysis of the samples revealed the presence of nitrate reducing bacteria belonging to the genera Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Micrococcus and Alcaligenes. Among the isolates, the consortium of Pseudomonas sp. KW1 and Bacillus sp. YW4 was found to be efficient in nitrate reduction. Influences of various carbon sources, incubation temperature and pH on nitrate reduction from synthetic wastewater were also studied. The results showed a rapid and efficient process of nitrate removal (99.4%) from synthetic wastewater supplemented with starch (1%), inoculated by bacterial consortium (Pseudomonas sp. KW1 and Bacillus sp. YW4) at incubation temperature of 30 °C at pH 7. This observation has led to the conclusion that the bacterial consortium was responsible for nitrate removal from synthetic nitrate-rich wastewater. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Show 104 more journal articles |
Conference (31 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2022 |
Gomez H, Ilic D, Robinson P, Zosky G, Haw T, Vanka K, et al., 'Modelling the pathophysiological effects of geography-specific landscape fire smoke', EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY JOURNAL (2022)
|
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2022 |
Gomez H, Ilic D, Robinson P, Zosky G, Haw JT, Vanka K, et al., 'Assessing the respiratory and cardiovascular effects of landscape fire smoke', RESPIROLOGY (2022)
|
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2020 |
Vanka K, Kim R, Brown A, Ali M, Gomez H, Donovan C, et al., 'Investigating Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Different Coal Dust (PM10) Exposures on Respiratory Health', AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE, ELECTR NETWORK (2020)
|
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2015 |
Palanisami T, Ramadass K, Smith E, Mallavarapu M, Srivastava P, Naidu R, 'Challenges in Real Field Implementation of Risk Based Land Management Approach: a Case Study Involving Weathered Hydrocarbons', Clean up 2015: 6th International Contmainated Site Remediation Conference: Proceedings, Melbourne (2015) [E2]
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2015 |
Palanisami T, Mallavarapu M, Naidu RAVI, 'Contaminants of emerging concern in the coastal zone: the need for new monitoring,assessment and management strategies', Great Lakes, NSW (2015) [O1]
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Show 28 more conferences |
Media (2 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link |
---|---|---|---|
2017 | Palanisami T, 'Plastic pollution in the Hunter's marine food chain and wastewater', (2017) | ||
2017 | Palanisami T, Maddison C, Subash NSBC, Sania A, Geetika B, Oluyoye(Michael) I, 'Plastic pollution in the Hunter's drinking water and environment', (2017) |
Preprint (1 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
2021 |
Rokomatu MN, Bhagwat G, Senathirajah K, Palanisami T, 'A Systematic Review on the Toxicological Implications of Microplastic to Human Health (2021)
|
Report (15 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link |
---|---|---|---|
2020 | Palanisami T, O'Connor W, 'Evaluation of Practical Technologies for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS) Remediation in Marine Fish Hatcheries', Fisheries Research and Development Corporation. (2020) | ||
2019 | Senathiraja K, Palanisami T, 'No Plastic in Nature: Assessing Plastic Ingestion from Nature to People', The World Wide Fund for Nature(WWF), 14 (2019) | ||
2015 | Palanisami T, Bahar M, Smith E, Mathieson G, Ramadass K, Megharaj M, et al., 'Ecotoxicity assessment of petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soils subjected to biopile treatment' (2015) | ||
Show 12 more reports |
Grants and Funding
Summary
Number of grants | 39 |
---|---|
Total funding | $11,482,394 |
Click on a grant title below to expand the full details for that specific grant.
20224 grants / $3,867,868
Biomass optimisation and microbial biopolymer synthesis for the compostable bioplastic production$1,309,295
Funding body: Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources
Funding body | Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Associate Professor Ian Grainge, Associate Professor Ajay Karakoti, Miss Haryni Jayaradhika Raghuraman Rengarajan, Professor Ajayan Vinu, Professor Jiabao Yi |
Scheme | Regional Decentralisation Agenda - Securing Raw Materials Program |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2101319 |
Type Of Funding | C2200 - Aust Commonwealth – Other |
Category | 2200 |
UON | Y |
PNU-UoN Global Collaborative Research Center for Green Ammonia Integrated Power Generation $1,300,307
Funding body: Pusan National University
Funding body | Pusan National University |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Doctor Soonho Lee, Doctor Jangmee Lee, Professor Jiabao Yi, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Chunghwan Jeon, Professor JuHun Song, Professor HeeChang LIm, Professor ByungHwa Lee, Doctor Jae-Hun Yang, Professor Ajayan Vinu |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2027 |
GNo | G2200957 |
Type Of Funding | C3400 – International For Profit |
Category | 3400 |
UON | Y |
Design and the development of advanced nanomaterials for the production of the pharmaceuticals and their delivery$1,024,866
Funding body: Apex Laboratories PVT LTD
Funding body | Apex Laboratories PVT LTD |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2024 |
GNo | G2101075 |
Type Of Funding | C3400 – International For Profit |
Category | 3400 |
UON | Y |
Healthy Environments And Lives (HEAL) $233,400
Funding body: NHMRC (National Health & Medical Research Council)
Funding body | NHMRC (National Health & Medical Research Council) |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Thava Palanisami |
Scheme | Special Initiative in Human Health and Environmental Change |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2022 |
Funding Finish | 2027 |
GNo | G2101364 |
Type Of Funding | C1100 - Aust Competitive - NHMRC |
Category | 1100 |
UON | Y |
20217 grants / $4,233,781
Novel Bioplastic Products from Biomass: Development, testing and validation$2,119,901
Funding body: Innovationclub Pty Ltd
Funding body | Innovationclub Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Ajayan Vinu, Associate Professor Ajay Karakoti, Professor Jiabao Yi, Associate Professor Ian Grainge, . Shiv Basant Kumar, Dr Augusti Mary Priyanka Joseph Stalin, Dr Augusti Mary Priyanka Joseph Stalin |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2001477 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Halloysite Based Materials for Carbon Capture and Conversion$750,000
Funding body: Minotaur Exploration Pty Ltd
Funding body | Minotaur Exploration Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Professor Jiabao Yi, Associate Professor Ajay Karakoti, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass, Associate Professor Ashish Malik, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Mrs Reshma Arokia Gigi |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2025 |
GNo | G2100284 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Halloysite Based Materials for Carbon Capture and Conversion$750,000
Funding body: Andromeda Metals Limited
Funding body | Andromeda Metals Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Professor Jiabao Yi, Associate Professor Ajay Karakoti, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Associate Professor Ashish Malik, Mrs Reshma Arokia Gigi |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2025 |
GNo | G2100285 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Removal and degradation of microplastics using halloysite nanocomposite$371,380
Funding body: ARC (Australian Research Council)
Funding body | ARC (Australian Research Council) |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Jiabao Yi, Dr Shaobin Wang, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass, Mr James Marsh, James Marsh, Tony Belperio, Mr Yitong Cao |
Scheme | Linkage Projects |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2000941 |
Type Of Funding | C1200 - Aust Competitive - ARC |
Category | 1200 |
UON | Y |
Removal and degradation of microplastics using halloysite nanocomposite$90,000
Funding body: Minotaur Exploration Pty Ltd
Funding body | Minotaur Exploration Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Jiabao Yi, Dr Shaobin Wang, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass, Mr James Marsh, James Marsh, Tony Belperio |
Scheme | Linkage Projects Partner Funding |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2001452 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Removal and degradation of microplastics using halloysite nanocomposite$90,000
Funding body: Andromeda Metals Limited
Funding body | Andromeda Metals Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Jiabao Yi, Dr Shaobin Wang, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass, Mr James Marsh, James Marsh, Tony Belperio |
Scheme | Linkage Projects Partner Funding |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2001453 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Closing the PFAS Loop$62,500
Funding body: Department of Defence
Funding body | Department of Defence |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Zahra Sobhani |
Scheme | Research Project |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2021 |
GNo | G2100574 |
Type Of Funding | C2200 - Aust Commonwealth – Other |
Category | 2200 |
UON | Y |
20203 grants / $1,080,081
The development of advanced Nanocarbon materials from coconut shell for energy and environmental applications$900,000
Funding body: Carbonova India Private Limited
Funding body | Carbonova India Private Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Gurwinder Singh, Associate Professor Ajay Karakoti, Associate Professor Ashish Malik, Professor Jiabao Yi, Associate Professor Ajay Karakoti, Associate Professor Ashish Malik, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Gurwinder Singh, Professor Ajayan Vinu, Professor Ajayan Vinu, Professor Jiabao Yi |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2020 |
Funding Finish | 2023 |
GNo | G2000904 |
Type Of Funding | C3400 – International For Profit |
Category | 3400 |
UON | Y |
Oyster biomonitor for endocrine disrupting chemicals$159,581
Funding body: ARC (Australian Research Council)
Funding body | ARC (Australian Research Council) |
---|---|
Project Team | Associate Professor Geoff MacFarlane, Doctor Richard Yu, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Wayne O'Connor, Professor Frederic Leusch, Mr Sazal Kumar, Conjoint Professor Wayne O'Connor |
Scheme | Linkage Projects |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2020 |
Funding Finish | 2022 |
GNo | G1901060 |
Type Of Funding | C1200 - Aust Competitive - ARC |
Category | 1200 |
UON | Y |
Plastics & Microplastics – source control and mitigation$20,500
Funding body: University of Melbourne
Funding body | University of Melbourne |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Ms Kala Senathirajah |
Scheme | AMSI Australian Postgraduate Research Internships |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2020 |
Funding Finish | 2020 |
GNo | G2001353 |
Type Of Funding | Scheme excluded from IGS |
Category | EXCL |
UON | Y |
20199 grants / $419,819
Hastings River biological effects monitoring program$97,203
Funding body: Birdon
Funding body | Birdon |
---|---|
Project Team | Associate Professor Geoff MacFarlane, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Wayne O'Connor, Dr Scott Wilson |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1901325 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Norfolk Island Environmental Assessment$87,405
Funding body: Norfolk Island Regional Council
Funding body | Norfolk Island Regional Council |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Cristelle Maurin, Doctor Cristelle Maurin, Carlos Miraldo Ordens, Doctor Balaji Seshadri, Professor Richard Bush, Dr MICHAEL Askew, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Steven Lucas, Dr Cristelle Maurin |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1900632 |
Type Of Funding | C1600 - Aust Competitive - StateTerritory Govt |
Category | 1600 |
UON | Y |
Remediation process optimisation$50,000
Funding body: External
Funding body | External |
---|---|
Project Team | Dr Thava Palanisami, Prof Richard Bush, Prof Geoff Evans |
Scheme | Industry R&D |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | External |
Category | EXTE |
UON | N |
Extraction of amino acids from bio-waste streams using an ecofriendly and innovative approach$49,925
Funding body: Green Camel Pty Limited
Funding body | Green Camel Pty Limited |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass |
Scheme | Entrepreneurs' Programme: Innovation Connections |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1901033 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Extraction of amino acids from bio-waste streams using an ecofriendly and innovative approach$49,925
Funding body: Department of Industry, Innovation and Science
Funding body | Department of Industry, Innovation and Science |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ajayan Vinu, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Kavitha Ramadass |
Scheme | Entrepreneurs' Programme: Innovation Connections |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1901172 |
Type Of Funding | C2200 - Aust Commonwealth – Other |
Category | 2200 |
UON | Y |
Microplastics Ingestion and Impacts$40,000
Funding body: World Wide Fauna Singapore
Funding body | World Wide Fauna Singapore |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Richard Bush, Professor Geoffrey Evans, Dr Scott Wilson |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1900513 |
Type Of Funding | C3500 – International Not-for profit |
Category | 3500 |
UON | Y |
Microplastics in Aquatic Environments$20,500
Funding body: University of Melbourne
Funding body | University of Melbourne |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami |
Scheme | AMSI Australian Postgraduate Research Internships |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1900278 |
Type Of Funding | Scheme excluded from IGS |
Category | EXCL |
UON | Y |
Evaluation of practical technologies for Perfluoroalkyl (PFA) remediation in marine fish hatcheries$18,043
Funding body: NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries)
Funding body | NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) |
---|---|
Project Team | Associate Professor Geoff MacFarlane, Associate Professor Geoff MacFarlane, Dr Stewart Fielder, Professor Wayne O'Connor, Doctor Thava Palanisami |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1901141 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
Fingerprinting Chemical contaminants in microplastics - Australian Microplastic Assessment Project (AUSMAP)$6,818
Funding body: Total Environment Centre
Funding body | Total Environment Centre |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Miss Maddison Carbery, Dr Scott Wilson, Miss Maddison Carbery, Dr Thava Palanisami |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2019 |
Funding Finish | 2019 |
GNo | G1900515 |
Type Of Funding | C3200 – Aust Not-for Profit |
Category | 3200 |
UON | Y |
20182 grants / $99,798
Removal of micro/nanoplastics and associated contaminants from wastewater using advanced treatment technologies$49,899
Funding body: Inovin Pty Ltd
Funding body | Inovin Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Richard Bush, Professor Geoffrey Evans, Doctor Zhaohui Wang |
Scheme | Entrepreneurs' Programme: Innovation Connections |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2018 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | G1800601 |
Type Of Funding | C3100 – Aust For Profit |
Category | 3100 |
UON | Y |
Removal of micro/nanoplastics and associated contaminants from wastewater using advanced treatment technologies$49,899
Funding body: Department of Industry, Innovation and Science
Funding body | Department of Industry, Innovation and Science |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Richard Bush, Professor Geoffrey Evans, Doctor Zhaohui Wang |
Scheme | Entrepreneurs' Programme: Innovation Connections |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2018 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | G1800655 |
Type Of Funding | C2100 - Aust Commonwealth – Own Purpose |
Category | 2100 |
UON | Y |
20171 grants / $51,000
UHMD Hunter River Water Quality Study$51,000
Funding body: NSW Minerals Council
Funding body | NSW Minerals Council |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Richard Bush, Doctor Zhaohui Wang, Doctor Thava Palanisami |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2017 |
Funding Finish | 2017 |
GNo | G1701095 |
Type Of Funding | C2300 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Own Purpose |
Category | 2300 |
UON | Y |
20165 grants / $670,502
Innovative Bioremediation technologies for TCE contaminated groundwater$471,339
Funding body: CRC CARE Pty Ltd
Funding body | CRC CARE Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Professor Ravi Naidu, Doctor Dawit Bekele, Doctor Thava Palanisami |
Scheme | Research Project |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2016 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | G1501243 |
Type Of Funding | CRC - Cooperative Research Centre |
Category | 4CRC |
UON | Y |
Bioremediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils from the Former Rail Loop Ponds at Mount Whaleback – Laboratory Biopile Study$101,663
Funding body: CRC CARE Pty Ltd
Funding body | CRC CARE Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Mezbaul Bahar, Professor Ravi Naidu, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Dr Prashant Srivastava |
Scheme | Research Project |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2016 |
Funding Finish | 2016 |
GNo | G1600698 |
Type Of Funding | CRC - Cooperative Research Centre |
Category | 4CRC |
UON | Y |
Occurrence, fate and behavior of microplastics in aquatic environment- implications to ecological and human health risk$45,000
Funding body: Newcastle City Council
Funding body | Newcastle City Council |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Miss Maddison Carbery |
Scheme | 50/50 Scholarship |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2016 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | G1601286 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
Understanding the Occurrence, Fate & Behavior, Management of Microplastics in Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants$45,000
Funding body: Hunter Water Corporation
Funding body | Hunter Water Corporation |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Mr Nethaji Raju |
Scheme | 50/50 Scholarship |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2016 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | G1601289 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
Ecological and human health risk assessment of microplastics$7,500
Funding body: Faculty of Science and Information Technology, The University of Newcastle | Australia
Funding body | Faculty of Science and Information Technology, The University of Newcastle | Australia |
---|---|
Project Team | Dr. Thava palanisami |
Scheme | New Staff Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2016 |
Funding Finish | 2016 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Internal |
Category | INTE |
UON | N |
20152 grants / $14,507
PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS in WATER, SEDIMENT and BIOTA$8,000
Funding body: Lake Macquarie City Council
Funding body | Lake Macquarie City Council |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Kannan Krishnan, Doctor Kannan Krishnan, Doctor Logeshwaran Panneerselvan, Doctor Suresh Subashchandrabose, Doctor Thava Palanisami, Professor Megh Mallavarapu |
Scheme | Environmental Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2015 |
Funding Finish | 2015 |
GNo | G1600058 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
Microplastics in Lake Macquarie: Distribution, Characteristics $6,507
Funding body: Lake Macquarie City Council
Funding body | Lake Macquarie City Council |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Thava Palanisami, Doctor Suresh Subashchandrabose, Doctor Logeshwaran Panneerselvan, Doctor Kannan Krishnan, Professor Megh Mallavarapu |
Scheme | Environmental Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2015 |
Funding Finish | 2015 |
GNo | G1600173 |
Type Of Funding | C2400 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Other |
Category | 2400 |
UON | Y |
20132 grants / $287,435
Pilot scale bioremediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils$281,435
Funding body: BHP Billiton Iron Ore Pty Ltd
Funding body | BHP Billiton Iron Ore Pty Ltd |
---|---|
Project Team | Megharaj Mallavarapu, Euan Smith, Grant Mathieson, Thavamani Palanisami, Kavitha Ramadass, Mezbaul Bahar, |
Scheme | Industry Research Funding |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2013 |
Funding Finish | 2014 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | C3111 - Aust For profit |
Category | 3111 |
UON | N |
Synthesis of inorganic nano/microstructures using microbial biotemplates and their applications$6,000
Funding body: University of South Australia
Funding body | University of South Australia |
---|---|
Scheme | Early Career Researcher International Networking Award |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2013 |
Funding Finish | 2014 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Internal |
Category | INTE |
UON | N |
20121 grants / $727,603
Bioremediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils in Arid region$727,603
Funding body: BHP Billiton Pty Ltd | Australia
Funding body | BHP Billiton Pty Ltd | Australia |
---|---|
Project Team | Prof. Megh Mallavarapu, Dr. Euan Smith, Dr. Thava Palanisami, Dr. Kavitha Ramadass |
Scheme | Industry |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2012 |
Funding Finish | 2013 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | CRC - Cooperative Research Centre |
Category | 4CRC |
UON | N |
20102 grants / $15,000
Speciation, toxicity and bioavailability of Arsenic in proposed residential soils in regional South Australia$11,000
Funding body: TMK Eng. Pty Ltd.
Funding body | TMK Eng. Pty Ltd. |
---|---|
Scheme | Consultancy |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2010 |
Funding Finish | 2011 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Contract - Aust Non Government |
Category | 3AFC |
UON | N |
Biomarkers for emerging contaminants$4,000
Funding body: University of South Australia
Funding body | University of South Australia |
---|---|
Scheme | Early Career Researcher Development Award |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2010 |
Funding Finish | 2011 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Internal |
Category | INTE |
UON | N |
20091 grants / $15,000
Bioavailability of barium to invertebrate’s and humans in soils contaminated by barite$15,000
Funding body: TMK Engineering
Funding body | TMK Engineering |
---|---|
Scheme | Consultancy |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2009 |
Funding Finish | 2010 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Contract - Aust Non Government |
Category | 3AFC |
UON | N |
Research Supervision
Number of supervisions
Current Supervision
Commenced | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | PhD | The Role of Bioplastic Innovation in Replacing Petroleum-Based Synthetic Materials in the Fashion Industry: An Exploratory Approach to Substituting Plastic Materials for Bioplastics in Woven and Non-Woven Applications to Reduce the Environmental Footprint of the Industry | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Micro Algae based Biorefining of Greenhouse Gases into Value-Added Products | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Synthesis and Functionalization of Bimodal Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Ovarian Cancer Treatment | PhD (Reproductive Medicine), College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Toxicological implication microplastics and human health | PhD (Biological Sciences), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Enzyme Mediated Synthesis of Nanocellulose, its Characterization, and Novel Applications | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Microplastic and Nano Plastics Degradation in Environment via Biotechnological Approaches | PhD (Biological Sciences), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2021 | PhD | Development of Treatment Technologies to Reduce. Remove and Recover Microplastics from the Whole Water Supply Cycle (Viz. Source, Conveyance and Waste) | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2020 | PhD | Self Sustainable Eco Communities | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
Past Supervision
Year | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | PhD | Microplastics and Associated Contaminants in the South Pacific, Fiji Islands: Sources, Fate and Possible Human Health Implications | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Micro-Nanoplastics in Fresh Water Ecosystem: An Ecotoxicological and Molecular Assessment | PhD (Environment Remediation), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2023 | PhD | Microplastics as an Emerging Contaminant in Wastewater Treatment Plants | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2022 | PhD | Characterizing the Effects of Mining Dust Particulate Matter Exposure on Respiratory Health | PhD (Immunology & Microbiol), College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
2022 | PhD | Environmentally Relevant Risk Assessment of Microplastics and Complex Chemical Mixtures in the Marine Environment: Implications for Trophic Transfer and Human Health | PhD (Environmental Sc), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2022 | PhD | Rhizoremediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbon Contaminated Soil Using Australian Native Vegetation | PhD (Materials Science & Eng), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
2021 | PhD | Beyond the Obvious: Understanding the Environmental Health Implications of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PACs) | PhD (Environment Remediation), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2021 | PhD | PlastiBiome: Unravelling the Interaction of Microorganisms with Plastics and its Environmental Implication | PhD (Biological Sciences), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2019 | Masters | Anaerobic Biodegradation of Microplastics using wastewater driven microbial inoculum | Microbiology, Vellore Institute of Technology | Principal Supervisor |
2019 | Masters | Fundamental Characterisation of the Plastisphere formation in the marine environment | Microbiology, Vellore Institute of Technology | Principal Supervisor |
2019 | Masters | FROM OCEAN TO PLATE- MICROPLASTICS IN MARINE BIVALVES | Environmental Health, The University of Southern Queensland | Principal Supervisor |
2019 | Masters | An Ecological and Human Health Risk Assessment of Microplastics and Nanoplastics | Biological Sciences, Vellore Institute of Technology | Principal Supervisor |
2016 | PhD | Phyco-nanotechnology for Chromium Remediation | PhD (Environment Remediation), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
2016 | PhD | Reclamation of derelict mine sites using metallophytes | Environmental Studies, University of South Australia | Co-Supervisor |
2015 | PhD | Development of microbial inoculum for the remediation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs) and metal mixed contaminated soils | Environmental Studies, University of South Australia | Co-Supervisor |
2014 | PhD | Effect of soil types and ageing on PAH bioavailability | Environmental Health, University of South Australia | Co-Supervisor |
Research Collaborations
The map is a representation of a researchers co-authorship with collaborators across the globe. The map displays the number of publications against a country, where there is at least one co-author based in that country. Data is sourced from the University of Newcastle research publication management system (NURO) and may not fully represent the authors complete body of work.
Country | Count of Publications | |
---|---|---|
Australia | 114 | |
India | 44 | |
Korea, Republic of | 14 | |
United States | 10 | |
United Kingdom | 8 | |
More... |
News
News • 7 May 2021
University awarded $2 million industry funding
The University of Newcastle’s Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), has today signed an agreement worth $2.119 million with InnovationClub Pty Ltd to further their research on plastic alternatives.
News • 21 Jan 2021
University microplastics research in the United Nations spotlight
Recognised by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as a world-leader in microplastics research, University of Newcastle’s Dr Thava Palanisami has been invited to speak at the Geneva Beat Plastic Pollution Dialogues and showcase University of Newcastle-based research on the world-stage.
News • 12 Jun 2019
Plastic ingestion by people could be equating to a credit card a week
A new study finds on average people could be ingesting approximately 5 grams of plastic every week, which is the equivalent weight of a credit card.
Dr Thava Palanisami
Position
Associate Professor
Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN)
School of Engineering
College of Engineering, Science and Environment
Contact Details
thava.palanisami@newcastle.edu.au | |
Phone | (02) 40339411 |
Office
Room | ATC |
---|---|
Building | Advanced Technology Centre |
Location | Callaghan University Drive Callaghan, NSW 2308 Australia |