Size characterization of nanomaterials in environmental and biological matrices through non-electron microscopic techniques

Engineered nanomaterials (ENs) can enter the environment, and accumulate in food chains, thereby causing environmental and health problems. Size characterization of ENs is critical for further evaluating the interactions among ENs in biological and ecological systems. Although electron microscope is a powerful tool in obtaining the size information, it has limitations when studying nanomaterials in complex matrices. In this review, we summarized non-electron microscope-based techniques, including chromatography-based, mass spectrometry-based, synchrotron radiation and neutron-based techniques for detecting the size of ENs in environmental and biological matrices. The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques were highlighted. The perspectives on size characterization of ENs in complex matrices were also presented.

Automated summary

This review highlights non-electron microscope-based techniques for detecting the size of ENs in environmental and biological matrices, and provides an analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques. The review also presents the perspectives on size characterization of ENs in complex matrices.