Dr. Serena Ducoli, Eng. Anna Gobetti and Dr. Cristina Nuzzi of the University of Brescia are among the winners of the Bando Giovani 2024 of Fondazione Cariplo, an initiative aimed at supporting the early stages of the academic career of young scholars. Their projects address issues of great scientific and social relevance, from the valorization of industrial waste to food safety, up to the study of emerging pollutants, with an innovative and interdisciplinary approach. The funded projects are part of a research framework aimed at developing new knowledge and technologies in the sectors of environmental sustainability, food safety and the valorization of industrial resources.
Interaction between microplastics and PFAS: implications for food safety
The project coordinated by Dr. Serena Ducoli, developed in collaboration between the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering of the University of Brescia and the Department of Food Science and Technology for a sustainable agro-food chain of the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore of Piacenza, analyzes the interactions between microplastics and PFAS, two emerging pollutants with possible implications for food safety. The research aims to investigate the absorption mechanisms of these substances, their impact on edible plants and the potential transfer along the food chain. The study will provide useful data to understand the role of microplastics as contamination vectors and to evaluate their effects on agricultural ecosystems.
At this link the video where Dr Ducoli talks about the project.
Use of steel waste for rubber materials
The project coordinated by Eng. Anna Gobetti aims to valorize steel waste deriving from steel production processes, using it as sustainable filler for virgin and recycled rubber materials. The research, conducted in collaboration with the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering of the University of Brescia, is divided into two main lines of investigation: the evaluation of slag as low-cost fillers for elastomeric materials and the optimization of the recycling of industrial vulcanized rubber waste. The goal is to develop solutions that reduce environmental impact and promote the circular economy in the manufacturing sector.
At this link the video where Eng. Gobetti talks about the project.
An innovative system for the detection of food fraud in milk
The "COCKTAIL – COmbining speCKle paTtern imaging with Artificial Intelligence to reveal miLk adulteration" project, coordinated by Dr. Valentina Bello (University of Pavia) in collaboration with Dr. Cristina Nuzzi (University of Brescia), develops an advanced analysis method to detect adulterations in milk through the combination of the speckle pattern imaging technique with artificial intelligence tools. The research involves the creation of a database of digital images of milk samples, whose analysis through machine learning algorithms will allow to distinguish pure products from altered ones. The project aims to provide an effective and accessible detection system, with potential applications in quality control of the dairy supply chain.
At this link the video where Dr Nuzzi talks about the project.