Occurrence, transport, and toxicity of nanomaterials in soil ecosystems: a review

The recent and widespread use of engineered nanomaterials in many industrial sectors is a rising health issue for living organisms and ecosystems, yet there is limited knowledge on nanomaterial toxicity, especially in complex soil systems. Here we review the fate of engineered nanomaterials in soils, their toxicity for soil organisms, and soil factors controlling their toxicity. We discuss nanomaterial toxicity for microorganisms, invertebrates, and terrestrial plants. Toxicological mechanisms include membrane damage, metal ion release, oxidative stress, and metabolic disorders. Toxicity-controlling factors include soil physicochemical properties, soil organic matter, and coexisting contaminations.

Automated summary

The recent use of engineered nanomaterials in various industries poses a health risk to organisms and ecosystems. However, there is limited knowledge on the toxicity of nanomaterials in complex soil systems. This review examines the fate of engineered nanomaterials in soils, their toxicity to soil organisms, and the factors that control their toxicity. Factors such as soil properties, organic matter, and coexisting contaminants play a role in determining the toxicity of nanomaterials.