Sono-Bio for solids: treatment of contaminated solids and soils using a new sono-bio technology

Our vision is to demonstrate a novel hybrid technology combining high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) and microorganisms for the treatment of persistent organic pollutants. A new synergy is proposed from simultaneous microbial (bio) and HFUS action (sono), created through complementary degradation methods and enhanced microbial metabolism in HFUS fields. Microbial degradation tends to be efficient for a subset of PFAS, known as poly-FAS and result in production of per-FAS. Sonolysis, via HFUS (100-1000 kHz), is one of few technologies able to fully mineralise PFAS¹. However, sonolysis is most effective for per-FAS rather than poly-FAS.

The proposed PhD program will extend current research in ground and surface water (within the Sono-Bio project) to application to sorbent regeneration and soil remediation (this PhD). Simultaneous and successive sono-bio treatment of sorbed PFAS and PFAS-contaminated soils will be researched.

The sono-bio process will initially research per-and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS).  PFAS don’t fully degrade naturally so they persist in the environment and can be toxic to animals and humans². Biological mobilisation of PFAS from soils is established³, however mineralisation i.e. breakdown PFAS to fluoride ions, carbon dioxide and water has not been realised. We propose that the combination of two sustainable technologies can present a solution for i) a holistic approach to PFAS remediation from soils and ii) an alternative for sorbent regeneration to replace high temperature and/or harsh solvents.

1. doi.org/10.1016/j.ultsonch.2022.105944
2. doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160010; doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126223
3. doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2020.602040.

Open to any UK or international candidates. Up to 30% of our UKRI funded studentships can be awarded to candidates paying international rate fees.

We are seeking candidates with:

• Relevant subject matter experience* (e.g. microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology, bioremediation metabolomics, chemical engineering, ultrasonics, analytical/environmental chemistry, sonochemistry)
• Willingness to adapt and work in different disciplines
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively
• Commitment to inclusivity, responsible research and innovation
• Ability to follow and implement safety protocols as required.

*Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the project, we anticipate that applicants may only have experience in a small area relevant to the project.