Determination of technological critical elements by using diffusive gradient in thin films, hydride generation, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry techniques

• Grant number: 23/03197-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Analytical Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Amauri Antonio Menegário
• Grantee: Luiz Felipe Pompeu Prado Moreira
• Host Institution: Centro de Estudos Ambientais (CEA). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Technologically critical elements (TCEs), a group of essential materials in modern technologies such as electronic displays, semiconductors, energy systems, and telecommunications, remain poorly studied regarding their environmental behavior and impacts. These elements, including tellurium (Te), germanium (Ge), gallium (Ga), indium (In), niobium (Nb), and tantalum (Ta), are part of a broader class of emerging contaminants resulting from industrial and technological activities. Their presence in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems poses potential risks that necessitate advanced analytical approaches to understand their mobility, bioavailability, and ecological effects.This study aims to develop innovative methods combining Diffusive Gradients in Thin Films (DGT) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) techniques for the precise determination and fractionation of TCEs in environmental samples This study will focus on the elements Te, Ge, Ga, In, Nb, and Ta, aiming to develop and test new binding phases, utilizing different compounds for the adsorption of these elements for pre-concentration and determination. It will also integrate hydride generation coupled with cryogenic preconcentration, and ICP-MS (HG-CT-ICP-MS/MS) to achieve ultra-low detection limits and reduce matrix interferences, for volatile hydride-forming elements like Te and Ge.The methodologies will be validated through laboratory experiments and applied in freshwater systems situ in areas impacted by industrial and mining activities, such as the decommissioned Caldas Unit of the Nuclear Industries of Brazil (INB) and other freshwater systems like the Paraiba do Sul River.