Suchergebnis: Katalogdaten im Herbstsemester 2016

Umweltnaturwissenschaften Master Information
Vertiefung in Biogeochemie und Schadstoffdynamik
Biogeochemische Prozesse
NummerTitelTypECTSUmfangDozierende
701-1313-00LIsotopic and Organic Tracers in Biogeochemistry Information W3 KP2GR. Kipfer, S. Ladd
KurzbeschreibungThe course introduces the scientific concepts and typical applications of tracers in biogeochemistry. The course covers stable and radioactive isotopes, geochemical tracers and biomarkers and their application in biogeochemical processes as well as regional and global cycles. The course provides essential theoretical background for the lab course "Isotopic and Organic Tracers Laboratory".
LernzielThe course aims at understanding the fractionation of stable isotopes in biogeochemical processes. Students learn to know the origin and decay modes of relevant radiogenic isotopes. They discover the spectrum of possible geochemical tracers and biomarkers, their potential and limitations and get familiar with important applications
InhaltGeogenic and cosmogenic radionuclides (sources, decay chains);
stable isotopes in biogeochemistry (nataural abundance, fractionation);
geochemical tracers for processes such as erosion, productivity, redox fronts; biomarkers for specific microbial processes.
Skripthandouts will be provided for every chapter
LiteraturA list of relevant books and papers will be provided
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesStudents should have a basic knowledge of biogeochemical processes (BSc course on Biogeochemical processes in aquatic systems or equivalent)
701-1315-00LBiogeochemistry of Trace ElementsW3 KP2GA. Voegelin, M. Etique, L. Winkel
KurzbeschreibungThe course addresses the biogeochemical classification and behavior of trace elements, including key processes driving the cycling of important trace elements in aquatic and terrestrial environments and the coupling of abiotic and biotic transformation processes of trace elements. Examples of the role of trace elements in natural or engineered systems will be presented and discussed in the course.
LernzielThe students are familiar with the chemical characteristics, the environmental behavior and fate, and the biogeochemical reactivity of different groups of trace elements. They are able to apply their knowledge on the interaction of trace elements with geosphere components and on abiotic and biotic transformation processes of trace elements to discuss and evaluate the behavior and impact of trace elements in aquatic and terrestrial systems.
Inhalt(i) Definition, importance and biogeochemical classification of trace elements. (ii) Key biogeochemical processes controlling the cycling of different trace elements (base metals, redox-sensitive and chalcophile elements, volatile trace elements) in natural and engineered environments. (iii) Abiotic and biotic processes that determine the environmental fate and impact of selected trace elements.
SkriptSelected handouts (lecture notes, literature, exercises) will be distributed during the course.
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesStudents are expected to be familiar with the basic concepts of aquatic and soil chemistry covered in the respective classes at the bachelor level (soil mineralogy, soil organic matter, acid-base and redox reactions, complexation and sorption reactions, precipitation/dissolution reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, carbonate buffer system).
This lecture is a prerequisite for attending the laboratory course "Trace elements laboratory".
701-1316-00LPhysical Transport Processes in the Natural EnvironmentW3 KP2GJ. W. Kirchner
KurzbeschreibungFluid flows transport all manner of biologically important gases, nutrients, toxins, contaminants, spores and seeds, as well as a wide range of organisms themselves. This course explores the physics of fluids in the natural environment, with emphasis on the transport, dispersion, and mixing of solutes and entrained particles, and their implications for biological and biogeochemical processes.
LernzielStudents will learn key concepts of fluid mechanics and how to apply them to environmental problems. Weekly exercises based on real-world data will develop core skills in analysis, interpretation, and problem-solving.
Inhaltdimensional analysis, similarity, and scaling
solute transport in laminar and turbulent flows
transport and dispersion in porous media
transport of sediment (and adsorbed contaminants) by air and water
anomalous dispersion
SkriptThe course is under development. Lecture materials will be distributed as they become available.
Anwendungen
NummerTitelTypECTSUmfangDozierende
701-1341-00LWater Resources and Drinking WaterW3 KP2GS. Hug, M. Berg, F. Hammes, U. von Gunten
KurzbeschreibungThe course covers qualitative (chemistry and microbiology) and quantitative aspects of drinking water from the resource to the tap. Natural processes, anthropogenic pollution, legislation of groundwater and surface water and of drinking water as well as water treatment will be discussed for industrialized and developing countries.
LernzielThe goal of this lecture is to give an overview over the whole path of drinking water from the source to the tap and understand the involved physical, chemical and biological processes which determine the drinking water quality.
InhaltThe course covers qualitative (chemistry and microbiology) and quantitative aspects of drinking water from the resource to the tap. The various water resources, particularly groundwater and surface water, are discussed as part of the natural water cycle influenced by anthropogenic activities such as agriculture, industry, urban water systems. Furthermore legislation related to water resources and drinking water will be discussed. The lecture is focused on industrialized countries, but also addresses global water issues and problems in the developing world. Finally unit processes for drinking water treatment (filtration, adsorption, oxidation, disinfection etc.) will be presented and discussed.
SkriptHandouts will be distributed
LiteraturWill be mentioned in handouts
701-1346-00LCarbon Mitigation Information W3 KP2GN. Gruber
KurzbeschreibungFuture climate change can only kept within reasonable bounds when CO2 emissions are drastically reduced. In this course, we will discuss a portfolio of options involving the alteration of natural carbon sinks and carbon sequestration. The course includes introductory lectures, presentations from guest speakers from industry and the public sector, and final presentations by the students.
LernzielThe goal of this course is to investigate, as a group, a particular set of carbon mitigation/sequestration options and to evaluate their potential, their cost, and their consequences.
InhaltFrom the large number of carbon sequestration/mitigation options, a few options will be selected and then investigated in detail by the students. The results of this research will then be presented to the other students, the involved faculty, and discussed in detail by the whole group.
SkriptNone
LiteraturWill be identified based on the chosen topic.
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesExam: No final exam. Pass/No-Pass is assigned based on the quality of the presentation and ensuing discussion.
701-1351-00LNanomaterials in the EnvironmentW3 KP2GB. Nowack, T. Bucheli
KurzbeschreibungThe lecture provides an overview on the behavior and effects of engineered nanomaterials in the environment as far as they are currently understood. The course will cover definitions, analysis, fate in technical and natural systems, effects (nano-ecotoxicology) and environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials.
Lernziel- Successful application of knowledge gained in the traditional disciplines of environmental sciences (e.g. biogeochemistry, environmental chemistry) to elucidate nanomaterial fate and behavior in the environment
- Identify key parameters of nanomaterials that potentially influence their environmental fate and behavior
- Get acquainted with the most common analytical tools for the quantification of nanomaterials in the environment
- Critical assessment of current state of research in this juvenile field, including the sometimes controversial literature data
InhaltTopics

- Definitions; nano-effects; engineered, natural and incidental nanoparticles
- Sources and release; Material flow modeling
- Analysis in environmental samples
- Fate in technical systems: water treatment, waste incineration
- Fate in the environment: water and soil
- Effects: nano-ecotoxicology
- Environmental risk assessment


Group work

Case studies about specific nanomaterials in environmental systems, topics will be provided
Written report submitted and presentation at the end of the lecture
SkriptHandouts will be provided
Literaturwill be provided during lecture
102-0337-00LLandfilling, Contaminated Sites and Radioactive Waste Repositories Belegung eingeschränkt - Details anzeigen W3 KP2GW. Hummel, M. Plötze
KurzbeschreibungPractices of landfilling and remediation of contaminated sites and disposal of radioactive waste are based on the same concepts that aim to protect the environment. The assessment of contaminants that may leach into the environment as a function of time and how to reduce the rate of their release is key to the design of chemical, technical and geological barriers.
LernzielUpon successful completion of this course students are able to:
- assess the risk posed to the environment of landfills, contaminated sites and radioactive waste repositories in terms of fate and transport of contaminants
- describe technologies available to minimize environmental contamination
- describe the principles in handling of contaminated sites and to propose and evaluate suitable remediation techniques
- explain the concepts that underlie radioactive waste disposal practices
InhaltThis lecture course comprises of lectures with exercises and guided case studies.
- A short overview of the principles of environmental protection in waste management and how this is applied in legislation.
- A overview of the chemistry underlying the release and transport of contaminants from the landfilled/contaminated material/radioactive waste repository focusing on processes that control redox state and pH buffer capacity; mobility of heavy metals and organic compounds
- Technical barrier design and function. Clay as a barrier.
- Contaminated site remediation: Site evaluation, remediation technologies
- Concepts and safety in radioactive waste management
- Role of the geological and engineered barriers and radionuclide transport in geological media.
SkriptShort script plus copies of overheads
LiteraturLiterature will be made available.
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesThis is an interdisciplinary course aimed at environmental scientists and environmental engineers.
Methodische Werkzeuge: Labor
NummerTitelTypECTSUmfangDozierende
701-1331-00LTrace Elements Laboratory Belegung eingeschränkt - Details anzeigen W3 KP4PA. L. Atkins, K. Barmettler
KurzbeschreibungThe course offers a practical introduction into the investigation of the biogeochemistry of trace elements. Laboratory experiments are performed to study a selected environmental process. Advanced techniques for the analysis of total element contents and element speciation are used. The experimental findings are interpreted and discussed in their environmental context.
LernzielThe objective of this course, is to offer students a practical introduction into the investigation of the biogeochemistry of trace elements. During the course, students will become familiar with some of the key experimental approaches typically used in the investigation of the biogeochemistry of trace elements in the laboratory. In addition, students will learn to use different advanced analytical techniques to measure the total content and the speciation of trace elements in both liquid and solid samples. The students will interpret and discuss their experimental findings in the context of the studied environmental system.
InhaltLaboratory experiments are designed and performed to study the interplay of various biogeochemical processes in a specific environmental system. Moreover, the effect of these processes on the biogeochemical cycling of trace elements in the environment will be considered. Advanced techniques for the analysis of total element contents and element speciation are used. The experimental findings are interpreted and discussed in the context of the the environmental system under investigation.
SkriptSelected handouts will be distributed during the course.
LiteraturAll neccessary literature will be uploaded to the ILIAS repository during the course.
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesPrerequisite: Lecture “Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements”.
701-1333-00LIsotopic and Organic Tracers Laboratory Belegung eingeschränkt - Details anzeigen W3 KP4PR. Kipfer, S. Ladd
KurzbeschreibungThis course will illustrate how different tracers and isotopes are used in natural systems. Here especially the processes (transformation, timescales) that take place and can be revealed by tracers/isotopes will be demonstrated but also flux rates will be calculated using different tracers.
LernzielStudents know how to use tracers/isotopes to investigate/understand ecosystems
They will understand the methods and analytical devices related to tracer/isotope work
Have a feeling for timescales on which natural processes occur
Students will be able to apply different sampling techniques in aquatic sciences
InhaltBasics:
O,H isotopes as tracers for mixing in aquatic systems
Carbon isotopes as tracer for methane oxidation
210Pb, 137Cs as a tracer for sedimentation rate/mixing
SF6, Neon, He as tracers for exchange processes at the air/water interface

Case assessment:
Sampling of a Swiss lake (Rotsee)
Sampling techniques for different elements
Sample preparation for different techniques
Measurements at isotope mass spectrometer/gamma counter
Interpretation of results from the special sampling campaign and in a broader context
701-1337-00LForest Soils - Functions and Responses to Environmental ChangesW3 KP6PF. Hagedorn, P. F. Schleppi
KurzbeschreibungThe students are measuring carbon and nutrient fluxes in forest soils under a changing climate and land-use. In laboratory and field experiments, they are manipulating climatic conditions (temperature, drought) and quantify the response of C and N fluxes in soils, and plant-soil interactions. The results will be interpreted and discussed in the context of changes in climate and land-use.
LernzielThe students get first-hand experience with field and laboratory methods to measure carbon and nutrient fluxes. They shall learn about physico-chemical properties of Swiss forest soils and how these properties determine the ecological functions of soils and their response to environmental changes. Finally the students shall interpret, discuss and present their experimental data.
Inhalt1. Introduction to the ecological functions of Swiss forest soils
2. Measurement of soil CO2 efflux, carbon and nutrient leaching in a forest soil
3. Sampling and preparation of litterand soil samples from selected soil profiles under different land-uses
4. Setting-up laboratory experiments in microcosms. Measurement of soil respiration and leaching of carbon, nutrients and/or contaminants in climate chambers under different environmental conditions.
5. Analyses of litter, soil, and soil water for selected physical and chemical properties
6. Interpretation and final presentation of data
SkriptA manual will be distributed during the course.
LiteraturSelected publications will be distributed during the course.
701-1339-00LSoil Solids Laboratory Belegung eingeschränkt - Details anzeigen
Number of participants limited to 12.
W3 KP6GM. Plötze
KurzbeschreibungThe main part of the course is the investigation of real samples of soils/sediments in the lab working in groups. A brief theoretical introduction into the overall principle and the meaning of physical, mineralogical and chemical parameters of soils and sediments and into each analytical method for their investigation will be given in advance.
LernzielUpon successful completion of this course students are able to:
- describe structural, mineralogical and chemical properties of the inorganic solid part of soils and sediments,
- propose and apply different advanced methods and techniques to measure these properties,
- critically assess the data and explain the relationships between them,
- communicate the results in a scientific la report.
InhaltBasic introduction to mineralogy and texture of soils
Analytical techniques
Practical exercises in sample preparation
Measurement and evaluation of the data:
- physical parameters (grain size distribution, surface, densities, porosity, (micro)structur)
- mineralogical/geochemical parameters (quantitative mineralogical composition, thermal analysis, cation exchange etc.)
SkriptSelected handouts will be distributed during the course.
LiteraturJasmund, K. , Lagaly, G. 1993. Tonminerale und Tone. Steinkopff: Darmstadt.
Scheffer, F. 2002. Lehrbuch der Bodenkunde / Scheffer/Schachtschabel. Spektrum: Heidelberg. 15. Aufl.
Dixon, J.B., Weed, S.B. 1989. Minerals in Soil Environments. SSSA Book Series: 1, 2nd Edition.
Sparks, D.L. 1996: Chemical Methods. SSSA Book Series 5, Part 3.
Dane, J.H., Topp, G.C. 2002: Physical Methods. SSSA Book Series 5, Part 4.
Ulery, A.L. & Drees, L.R. 2008: Mineralogical Methods. SSSA Book Series 5, Part 5.
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesIn order to allow for effective lab work not more than 12 students can join the course.

Useful preparatory courses are: "Soil Chemistry", "“Clay Mineralogy"”, and "“X-ray powder diffraction”".
701-1673-00LEnvironmental Measurement LaboratoryW5 KP4GP. U. Lehmann Grunder, D. Or
KurzbeschreibungMeasurements are the the sole judge of scientific truth and provide access to unpredictable information, enabling the characterization and monitoring of complex terrestrial systems. Based on lectures and field- and laboratory training the students learn to apply modern methods to determine forest inventory parameters and to measure subsurface properties and processes.
Lernziel- explain functioning of sensors that are used for characterization of landscapes and terrestrial systems
- select appropriate measurement methods and sampling design to quantify key variables and processes in the subsurface
- deploy sensors in the field and maintain sensor network
- interpret collected laboratory and field data and report main conclusions deduced from measurements
Inhalt1) Measurement Science: Measurement precision and accuracy; sensing footprint, sampling design and sampling errors, uncertainty reduction, spatial and temporal variability, sampling network design and information costs

2) Electronics: Basic introduction to electronic components, voltage and current measurements, A/D converters, power requirements, power consumption calculations, batteries, storage capacity, solar panels

3) Datalogging (Lecture): Data Logging, data transfer, storage, and sensing technologies; basic data logger programming; overview of soil sensor types and sensor calibration; including programming in the laboratory

4) Geophysical methods on Subsurface Characterization: Basic principles of ERT, GPR, and EM;

5) Soil and Groundwater Direct Sampling (Lab): Soil physical sampling; profile characterization, disturbed and undisturbed soil sampling, direct-push geoprobe sampling; soil water content profiles and transects;

6) Electronics Laboratory: Setup and measurement of simple circuits, selection and use of voltage dividers, batteries and solar panels; pressure and temperature measurements;

7) Deployment of monitoring network: Field installation of TDR, temperature probes, tensiometers, data loggers and power supply

8) Geophysics lab: Demonstration and application of geophysical methods in the field;

9 & 10) Forest characterization/ inventory: Principles of LIDAR; structures and features of the tree crowns, size/volume of the leaf area tree positions and diameters at breast height

11&12) Ecohydrological and Soil Monitoring Networks- Data management for long term monitoring networks Tereno, and other critical zone observatories

13) Remote Sensing- Basic principles and forest-related examples including data extraction and analysis
SkriptLecture material on page
LiteraturLecture material will be online for registered students:
Link
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesThe details of the schedule will be optimized based on the number of students; some blocks of the course will be offered as well to students of Environmental Engineering
Semesterarbeit und Seminar
NummerTitelTypECTSUmfangDozierende
701-1302-00LTerm Paper 2: Seminar
Prerequisite: Term Paper 1: Writing (701-1303-00L).
O2 KP1SM. H. Schroth, N. Gruber, J. Hering, R. Kretzschmar, M. Lever, K. McNeill, D. Or, B. Wehrli, L. Winkel
KurzbeschreibungThis class is the 2nd part of a series and participation is conditional on the successful completion of the Term paper Writing class (701-1303-00L). The results from the term paper written during the winter term are presented to the other students and advisors and discussed.
LernzielThe goal of the term paper Seminars is to train the student's ability to communicate the results to a wider audience and the ability to respond to questions and comments.
InhaltEach student presents the results of the term paper to the other students and advisors and responds to questions and comments from the audience.
SkriptNone
LiteraturTerm paper
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesThe term papers will be made publically available after each student had the opportunity to make revisions.

There is no final exam. Grade is assigned based on the quality of the presentation and ensuing discussion.
701-1303-00LTerm Paper 1: Writing Belegung eingeschränkt - Details anzeigen O5 KP6AM. H. Schroth, N. Gruber, J. Hering, R. Kretzschmar, M. Lever, K. McNeill, D. Or, B. Wehrli, L. Winkel
KurzbeschreibungThe ability to critically evaluate original (scientific) literature and to summarize the information in a succinct manner is an important skill for any student. This course aims to practise this ability, requiring each student to write a term paper on a topic of relevance for research in the areas of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics.
LernzielThe goal of the term paper is to train the student's ability to
critically evaluate a well-defined set of research subjects, and to
summarize the findings concisely in a paper of scientific quality. The
paper will be evaluated based on its ability to communicate an
understanding of a topic, and to identify key outstanding questions.
Results from this term paper will be presented to the fellow students and
involved faculty in the following term (Term paper seminars class)
InhaltEach student is expected to write a paper with a length of approximately 15 pages. The students can choose from a list of topics prepared by the supervisors, but the final topic will be determined based on a balance of choice and availability. The students will be guided and advised by their advisors throughout the term. The paper itself should contain the following elements: Motivation and context of the given topic (25%), Concise presentation of the state of the science (50%), Identification of open questions and perhaps outline of opportunities for research (25).
In addition, the accurate use of citations, attribution of ideas, and the judicious use of figures, tables, equations and references are critical components of a successful paper. Specialized knowledge is not expected, nor required, neither is new research.
SkriptGuidelines and supplementary material will be handed out at the beginning of the class.
LiteraturWill be identified based on the chosen topic.
Voraussetzungen / BesonderesEach term paper will be reviewed by one fellow student and one faculty. The submission of a written review is a prerequisite for obtaining the credit points.
There is no final exam. Grade is assigned based on the quality of the term paper and the submission of another student's review.

Students are expected to take Term Paper Writing and Term Paper Seminar classes in sequence.
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