Sampling and Analysis of Nanomaterials in the Environment. A State-of-the-Science Review

This report summarizes a state-of-the-science review to identify and assess currently-available sampling and analysis methods to identify and quantify the occurrence of nanomaterials in the environment. The environmental and human health risks associated with nanomaterials are largely unknown, and methods needed to monitor the environmental occurrence of nanomaterials are very limited or nonexistent. Because this research is current and ongoing, much of the applicable information is found in gray literature (e.g., conference proceeding, communications with research scientists and other experts).

The approach to this review included three separate strategies:

1)Collection of available published literature using DialogŪ;

2)Review of information from targeted sources, such as nano-specific journals, conference proceedings, grants databases, and research databases; and

3)Contacts with industry and academic experts.

This report summarizes the key characteristics that must be considered when collecting and analyzing samples in various environmental media. Based on results of the literature review, and personal communication with researchers, typical analytical methods and techniques that are currently used for nanomaterials are identified and briefly discussed.