Iron-catalyzed formation of methyl radicals as a common source of volatile organic compounds

Goals

• Identification of C1 and C2 components formed from methylated precursor compounds
• Description of the underlying reaction mechanisms
• Identification of these sources in nature (especially in soils)

Specifically

• Measurement of CH₄, CH₃OH, CH₂O, CH₃Cl, and other C1 and C2 components derived from methylated precursor compounds
• Isotope analyses to determine the origin of C1 and C2 components
• Measurement of C1 and C2 components within the soil system

Leaders

• Heidelberg University:
• Biogeochemistry Research Group – Prof. Frank Keppler (PI) & Dr. Jonas Hädeler (Postdoc)
• Inorganic Chemistry Research Group – Prof. Peter Comba (PI)

Funding

DFG – German Research Foundation (KE 884/19-1, CO 188/45-1)

Activities and Progress

• Establishment of analytical measurement systems for C1 and C2 components
• Investigation of S-, N-, O-, and N-methylated compounds regarding the formation of C1 and C2 components
• Use of stable carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen isotope analysis to identify the origin of C1 and C2 components
• Investigation of different soil types for their capacity to form C1 and C2 components