Project: Impact Assessment of Nanoparticle-Induced Reactive Oxidation Species on Bacterial Viability in Natural Environments (WP3)

Host institution: ATU

Supervisor(s): Suresh Pillai (PhD promoter)

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of reactive oxidation species generated by nanomaterials on bacterial cell integrity and viability within natural environmental contexts.

DC14 will investigate the biological ramifications of exposure to reactive oxidation species (ROS) produced by semiconductor oxide nanoparticles on bacteria in natural environments. This comprehensive study will cover ROS generation, pore formation in cell membranes, cell wall integrity, and DNA damage. The project aims to elucidate the mechanisms underpinning the antimicrobial actions of nanoparticles, particularly the role of hydroxyl radicals and singlet oxygen. Techniques such as XRD, XPS, SEM, BET, FTIR, EDX, and Raman spectroscopy will characterize the nanocatalysts’ antimicrobial properties. Additionally, DFT calculations will predict material behavior pre- and post-reaction, while laboratory studies will correlate the observed microbial damage with specific ROS exposure. This research will fill existing knowledge gaps and enhance understanding of nanoparticle-bacteria interactions in real-world environments.

Expected results: Comprehensive understanding of the biological consequences of bacteria exposed to reactive oxidation species (ROS) produced by semiconductor oxide nanoparticles.

Planned secondments:

• UNISA (Sup.: L. Rizzo): M12-15 (4 months): Training in nanomaterials synthesis and application in AOPs.
• SUEZ (Sup.: R. Moscoviz): M29-32 (4 months): Insights in the operation of full scale water treatment plants.

Enrolment in Doctoral degree: ATU Doctoral School of bio-engineering sciences

Selected candidate: A. Bhaskaran (pending employment formalities)