Comparison of nanoparticles' characteristic parameters derived from SEM and SMPS analyses

The aim of this study is to determine the usability of electron microscopy to assess the inhalation exposure and extract morphological information otherwise unobtainable. Generated graphite particles in the size range of 20-150 nm were used as test aerosol and were analyzed by scanning mobility particle spectrometer and collected on membrane filters for scanning electron microscopy analysis. Observations revealed large discrepancies between electromobility diameter and diameter obtained from SEM analysis, as well as changes in particles' morphology. Particles have been quantitatively analyzed and grouped based on their morphological parameters such as solidity and circularity. This proves the feasibility of electron microscopy a complementary technique to real-time spectroscopy measurements, as it allows the identification of nano-objects with a detailed stereological description.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to determine the usability of electron microscopy in assessing inhalation exposure and extracting morphological information. The results showed that electron microscopy could provide a more accurate observation of the morphological parameters of nanoparticles compared to real-time spectroscopy measurements.