Nucleation, growth, and aggregation of metal oxide nanoparticles in aquatic systems can significantly alter the fate of organic and inorganic contaminants. In this study, we aimed to provide more accurate quantitative and qualitative information about nucleation, growth, and aggregation of iron oxide nanoparticles. We used a time-resolved simultaneous small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS)/grazing incidence (GISAXS) setup for real-time monitoring of nanoparticle formation at water-mineral interfaces. The size and shape of nanoparticles and the location of iron oxide nanoparticles from the substrates were monitored. The substrates were quartz, mica, aluminum oxide, and organic polymer coated surfaces. To complement the observations, atomic force microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and electrophoretic mobility analyzer were utilized. In this talk, we will also present the reactive surface area evolution as a function of time, which is often found in the environment due to thin surface coatings of these nanoparticles.

Effects of substrate properties on nucleation, growth, and aggregation of metal oxides in aqueous systems

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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