US EPA

157586 

Journal Article 

Review 

Nanoparticles: Structure, properties, preparation and behaviour in environmental media 

Christian, P; Von der Kammer, F; Baalousha, M; Hofmann, T 

2008 

Yes 

Ecotoxicology
ISSN: 0963-9292
EISSN: 1573-3017 

17 

5 

326-343 

English 

18459043 

10.1007/s10646-008-0213-1 

WOS:000256314700002 

There is increasing interest and need to develop a deeper understanding of the nature, fate and behaviour of nanoparticles in the environment. This is driven by the increased use of engineered nanoparticles and the increased pressure to commercialise this growing technology. In this review we discuss the key properties of nanoparticles and their preparation and then discuss how these factors can play a role in determining their fate and behaviour in the natural environment. Key focus of the discussion will relate to the surface chemistry of the nanoparticle, which may interact with a range of molecules naturally present in surface waters and sediments. Understanding these factors is a core goal required for understanding the final fate of nanomaterials and predicting which organisms are likely to be exposed to these materials.