Engineered Nanoparticles (ENPs) in the Aquatic Environment: an Overview of Their Fate and Transformations

The increasing production and utilization of nano-based commercial products have resulted in a significant release of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in the environment. Upon their release into the aquatic systems, ENPs interact with a wide range of natural constituents and undergo a multitude of diverse transformation processes. The majority of these transformations entail physical, chemical, and biological transformations. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the investigations that have scrutinized the fate and transformation behavior of ENPs such as TiO2, ZnO, CuO, Ag, Fe3O4, NiO, SiO2, CeO2, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes. The physicochemical properties of ENPs and the prevailing environmental conditions constitute the pivotal parameters governing the environmental fate and transformation of ENPs. These transformations are intertwined with a range of environmental aspects which includes aggregation, agglomeration, sedimentation, dissolution, reduction, oxidation, sulfidation, and adsorption. Thus, the insights gleaned from these studies may help to comprehend the behavior of transformed ENPs, including their environmental fate, bioavailability, and mechanisms of toxicity. Overall, forthcoming nanomanufacturing processes should thoroughly prioritize the considerations of health, safety, and environmental consequences, all while ensuring that the functionality of consumer products remains uncompromised.

Automated summary

The increasing production and utilization of nano-based commercial products have led to a significant release of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in the environment. These ENPs undergo various physical, chemical, and biological transformations upon release into aquatic systems. This review comprehensively evaluates the fate and transformation behavior of ENPs such as TiO2, ZnO, CuO, Ag, Fe3O4, NiO, SiO2, CeO2, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes. The physicochemical properties of ENPs and environmental conditions play crucial roles in determining their fate and transformations.