The development of analytical methods for nanoparticle (NP) characterization and quantification is the top research priorities of engineered nanomaterial (ENM). Advances in understanding the environmental behavior of metal-containing ENMs can only be made if detection, quantification, and characterization methods are developed. Metallic element based multi-element nanoparticles (MENPs) are continuously synthesized and used increasingly. The characterization and quantification methods currently available are not specific and sensitive enough for real environmental and biological samples (low NP concentration and complex matrix). The method for quantifying and characterizing MENPs is essentially lacking under real environmental and biological conditions. The objectives of this study are to develop well-characterized analytical reference standards and high-throughput sensitive methods for NPs characterization and quantification, and to apply the developed methodologies for evaluating the fate, transportation, aggregation, and transformation of the NPs during drinking water treatment process. Ag and TiO2 NPs were purchased from commercial sources, and TiO2/ZnO MENPs were prepared by atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology. Single particle (SP)-ICP-MS methods were developed by using a NexION 300D ICP-MS system from PerkinElmer. The major advantages of this instrument are its super sensitivity, short dwell time, multi-element capability, and high-throughput. Simulated drinking water treatment procedures were conducted by using surface (river) water as source water spiked with the NPs. The samples were collected at each step of treatment (coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection). Each sample was analyzed by SP-ICP-MS methods. The detailed procedures and results will be presented.

Single-particle ICP-MS methods development for nanoparticles monitoring and application in drinking water treatment system

248th National Meeting (2014)

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