Quantitative characterization of nanomaterials and their analytical detection in complex matrices by single particle ICP-MS and AF4-MALS-ICP-MS
Federica AURELI
(Istituto Superiore di Sanità)
Abstract:
Assessing the potential hazards of inorganic nanomaterials (iNMs) requires analytical techniques that can be successfully employed in experimental studies addressing their interaction with biological systems. The key role played in vivo and in vitro by parameters such as diameter, volume, area, mass, surface charge, elemental composition, agglomeration and aggregation state calls for analytical methods capable of providing a thorough characterization of the nano-objects under investigation in testing media, biological samples, and consumer's products. In this respect, imaging techniques (e.g. TEM, SEM) are essential for the characterization of ENM but cannot provide quantitative data in complex samples, whereas inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is establishing itself as a timely, practical and robust tool to cope with quantitative characterization of iNMs.
Sample preparation and detection methods for the analytical determination of inorganic nanoparticles in complex matrices will be reviewed, with focus on state-of-the-art mass spectrometric techniques such as single particle ICP-MS and asymmetric flow field flow fractionation combined on-line with optical detectors (MALS, UV) for size determination and elemental detection by ICP-MS.
