The
measurement and characterization of nanoparticles is critical to all aspects of
nanotechnology. The widespread application of nanomaterials has inevitably led
to their release into the environment, which raises concern about their
potential adverse effects on the ecosystems and their impact on health. Complete
characterization of nanomaterials is important for interpreting the results of
toxicological and human health studies. Many analytical techniques are available for
nanometrology, only some of which can be successfully applied to environmental health
studies. One technique that is proving
invaluable for detecting and sizing metallic nanoparticles is SP-ICP-MS. Its
combination of elemental specificity, sizing resolution and unmated sensitivity
makes it extremely applicable for the characterization of nanoparticles which
have been integrated into larger products such as foods, consumer goods,
personal care products, and pharmaceuticals.
