The effects of natural matrices on the physiochemical state and properties of nanoparticles must be investigated to accurately determine fate and toxicity.  The current work describes the use of Field Flow Fractionation interfaced to Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry for the detection and characterization of nanoparticles at parts per billion levels after exposure to soil, natural waters, and biological systems.  These complex systems, when coupled to biological and photochemical reactions can drastically alter the stability of nanoparticles and their biogeochemical properties.  Results indicate that photolysis of polymer coated nanosilver will remove the stabilizing coating, resulting in agglomeration, whereas biological exposure can result in particle size increases and decreases, depending on the system and matrix components.

Characterization of nanoparticles in complex environmental matrices by field flow fractionation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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