We present a GIS-based model describing the transport and transformation of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) released to the James River basin in Virginia. Particles studied include Ag, CuO, and ZnO.  The water quality modeling suite WASP7 was linked to a modification of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Model (US EPA) in order to estimate daily stream loads of sediment and NPs from sewage treatment plant effluent and agricultural runoff. NP and metal ion speciation and transport were predicted for 68 connected river segments and underlying bed layers as a function of (1) daily variation in stream flow and volume, (2) seasonal variation in temperature, oxygen, and pH, and (3) spatial variation in land use, topography, and points of release.  Results show NP accumulation in low energy environments may result in long-term toxic metal ion release from the sediment.  The sensitivity of predicted concentrations to NP properties (size, surface chemistry) and spatial and temporal heterogeneities is explored.

Modeling metal and metal oxide nanoparticle fate in the James River basin

248th National Meeting (2014)

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