While many chemistry experiments highlight applications and benefits of nanotechnology, fewer give students the opportunity to explore the potentially negative impact of nanomaterials on the environment. In this two-week experiment, first-year students in an introductory nanotechnology course synthesize silver nanoparticles using the well-known citrate reduction method then add a small amount of Ag nanoparticle solution to test tubes containing Egeria densa, a common water weed. They prepare similar test tubes containing plant stalks in DI water. In the following week’s lab session, students extract the chlorophyll from both the treated and untreated plants then measure its concentrations. By pooling their data, the class can observe the impact of Ag nanoparticles on the plant’s health. This experiment is appropriate for a general chemistry 2 lab course. It generates minimal waste, requires only two weeks for completion, and involves the extraction and measurement of a chemical species for assessing the toxicology of nanoparticles. Effects of alternative nanoparticle synthesis methods on experimental outcomes are also presented.

Effect of nanoparticles on plant health: Nanotoxicology experiment for first-year students

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.