Analytical solutions support University Researchers in understanding Environmental Effects of Nanomaterials

Researchers at The School of Freshwater Science, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA, are using NanoSight Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) from Malvern Instruments to investigate the effects of nanoparticle contaminants on freshwater organisms. The work, which is at the forefront of nanotoxicity testing, has focused on using the unique size, concentration and visualisation capabilities provided by NTA to monitor how specific changes in nanoparticle surface chemistry influence the impact of the particles on molecular species in environmental media.

“The goal of our research is to provide a greater understanding of the influence of nanomaterials on the environment and advance the scientific theory that underpins nanoparticle health and safety,” said Dr Klaper, Associate Professor, School of Freshwater Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. “Nanoparticles present unique challenges to toxicity testing compared with testing for chemical contaminants because of their particulate nature and novel behaviours. Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis has provided us with an instantaneous way of looking at the behaviour of the nanoparticles within a biological medium, providing insight unachievable with alternative analysis techniques.”

NanoSight NTA is a unique method of characterising nanoparticles within solution. Each particle is individually but simultaneously analysed by direct observation and measurement of diffusion events. This particle-by-particle methodology produces high resolution results for particle size distribution and concentration, while visual validation provides users with additional confidence in their data. Both particle size and concentration are measured. Used in concert with additional characterisation techniques, such as the Zetasizer Nano, this holistic approach to characterisation provides the breadth of analytical data required to inform the emerging health and safety aspect of nanomaterials before they are released into the environment.

“NTA has allowed us to really focus on how variations among nanoparticles, such as small changes in the surface chemistry, correlate to their behaviour within an environmental medium and their interactions within organisms. One of the great things about the Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis system is the unique visualisation capability which enables real time empirical insight into key particle behaviour, such as the propensity and rate of aggregation, as opposed to alternative techniques with often lengthy procedures.”