Environmental Sciences Development Lab
Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering Department, Emirate Nuclear Technology Center
Principal advisor: Dr. Maryam Alshehhi (maryamr.alshehhi@ku.ac.ae)
Environmental Sciences Development Lab we employ a comprehensive approach to soil analysis and mapping, integrating advanced techniques such as spectroscopic measurements, elemental analysis, and radiation assessment methods. By including radiation assessment alongside traditional soil characterization methods, we aim to understand the impact of nuclear activities on soil properties and environmental health. Utilizing AI modeling on satellite and UAV platforms, we can map both soil characteristics and radiation levels simultaneously, providing valuable insights for land management in areas affected by nuclear facilities or other sources of radiation. This integrated approach facilitates informed decision-making for sustainable land use practices, particularly in regions with nuclear infrastructure or contamination concerns.
- laboratory Spectroscopic measurements
Spectroscopic measurements in soil and water samples provide valuable insights into their chemical composition and physical properties. By analyzing the unique spectral signatures of the sample material, researchers can identify key elements, assess nutrient levels, and evaluate environmental parameters. This non-destructive technique offers a rapid and efficient means of characterizing the material for various agricultural, environmental, and geological applications. The laboratory host multiple equipment for this objective (Spectral evolution RS 3500 (350 to 2500nm), HR200+ (300 to 1000nm), Arcoptix spectrometers (900 to 2600 nm) and DH-2000 light source under BlackBox condition.
- Chemical compounds Analysis (TOC, TC, TIC & TN)
Extremely wide measurement range: from 4 μg/L to 30,000 mg/L, applicable to everything from ultrapure water to highly contaminated water. (TOC, TC, TIC & N) Analysis: can analyze the total organic carbon (TOC), total inorganic carbon (TC), total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN) in the liquid and solid samples statutes using (Total Organic Carbon Analyzer (TOC) with Shimadzu Total Nitrogen Unit and SSM-5000A solid sampler unit.)Â
- Elementary analysis
Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is commonly used in soil analysis to accurately quantify trace elements like heavy metals (e.g., lead, cadmium) and essential nutrients (e.g., zinc, iron), aiding in environmental assessment and agricultural management. Using the iCE™ 3500 AAS Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, this method ensures precise detection at low concentrations. AAS is also widely applied in water analysis, including both seawater and freshwater, to monitor metal pollutants and nutrient levels. In seawater, it helps detect contaminants like mercury and arsenic, which are crucial for marine ecosystem health. In freshwater, AAS supports water quality monitoring for safe drinking water and irrigation.
- Microscopic analysis
Observing and characterizing of soil particles. Understanding the soil texture and combustion in microscale. observing and characterizing marine life in living, fixed and fossil organisms. Study most corals, bed sediments, planktons, and microplastics. Using both Olympus BX43 Binocular Microscope and MicroBlue Binocular High-Quality.
Facilities include:
laboratory Spectroscopic measurements:Â Spectral evolution RS 3500, HR200+, Arcoptix spectrometers and DH-2000 light source under BlackBox condition.
Chemical compounds Analysis:Â Total Organic Carbon Analyzer (TOC) with Shimadzu Total Nitrogen Unit and SSM-5000A solid sampler unit.
Elementary analysis: iCE™ 3500 AAS Atomic Absorption Spectrometer
Microscopic analysis: Olympus BX43 Binocular Microscope and MicroBlue Binocular High-Quality.
Main facilities
