Técnicas e Metodologias de Amostragem em Ambientes Extremos

Objectives

With this UC it is intended that the student will have the necessary tools to: 1-Define the conditions of the sampling operation, namely in the sample collection and treatment to be applied according to the sample/type of analysis as well as in the identification of the errors and estimation of its variance. 2-Define a sampling program based on the environment in which it will be carried out and which tools, materials and technologies are needed both for the process itself and for the collection and preservation of samples. 3- Identify and characterize the different extreme environments and how these conditions influence the entire sampling process. 4- Identify the applicable legislation that is applied to all sample collection processes.

Syllabus

SAMPLING. Sampling objectives. Sampling operation and conditions. Sampling collection, conservation and processement. OCEANS/DEPTH OCEANS. Missions to study the sea surface, water column, and ocean floor. Techniques for acquiring environmental data, collecting samples, and characterizing marine habitats. Specialized techniques for studying the deep sea. Autonomous robotic systems for automation of exploration missions. Georeferencing techniques using acoustic systems. POLAR REGIONS. Main research interests in the polar regions and sampling methodologies (Climate Research, Permafrost, etc.). Conditions for sampling the Polar Regions - Brief reference to the High Mountains. SPACE. Space sampling missions in extreme environments in space. Planetary protection so as not to contaminate extraterrestrial samples, and not to contaminate the Earth with extraterrestrial samples. CASE STUDIES.

Prerequisites

It is desirable that the students would have background in Chemistry, Physics in the domain of General Mechanics (including dynamics), Algebra, Numerical Analysis (resolution of linear and non-linear equations) and Differential Equations.

Cross Competence Component

This curricular unit wil developed several soft skills. The promotion of criativity and problem solving will be ehnanced by increasing the laboratory and team work. Several other skils will also be enhanced, namely team work that include preparation and implementation of laboratory work, definition of novel approches to sampling problems and the consequent creation of new strategies, and the promotion of oral discussions and presentations. The analysis of sampling problems in extreme environments and their oral presentation will allow the interpretation of scientific sampling problems and the suggestion of new approaches and new strategies. The active learning strategy, where the student has the main role on the learning process, will be implemented as much as possible.

Laboratorial Component

The laboratory component will be mainly used to carry out fieldwork and sample processing in the laboratory. Students will have contact with the most diverse sampling methodologies and with the chemical processes related to sample conditioning, preservation and transport. Students will also participate in demonstration missions with autonomous marine vehicles (owned by IST) in a controlled environment on the Tagus River. Possibility of participation of excellent students in the Polar Campaign of the University of Lisbon within the scope of the recently approved Polar College and in oceanic missions through collaborations to be established with IPMA AND EMEPC.

Programming And Computing Component

Besides the use of Office software, easy simulation computing software will be used for, as an example, acquisition of data in the water column. Programing tools will also be used such as MATLab, or other tools supported by the Phyton languange.

Ethical Principles

All members of a group are responsible for the group´s work. In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution. Bibliografia Principal