Behavior Modification Could Ease Concerns about Nanoparticles | NDN
 

Behavior Modification Could Ease Concerns about Nanoparticles

Summary posted by Meridian on 11/12/2009
Source: American Chemical Society
Author: n/a

A new study, published November 12, in the journal Environmental Science & Technology ("Fate of Silica Nanoparticles in Simulated Primary Wastewater Treatment"), reports on the development of a technology for changing the behavior of nanoparticles in municipal sewage treatment plants. Sewage treatment plants are the main gateway for nanoparticles to enter the environment, and large increases in the production of such nanoparticles are expected in the next decade. Studies have indicated that some nanoparticles could have adverse environmental health effects. The study, conducted by the United Kingdom Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, showed that coating silica nanoparticles with a detergent-like material resulted in the nanoparticles clumping together into a solid residue termed sewage sludge. Uncoated nanoparticles stayed in the water and remained in the effluent stream. The scientists say the findings demonstrate the potential for coating, or changing the surface chemistry of nanoparticles, as a way to re-route the journey of nanoparticles through sewage treatment plants. The article can be viewed online at the link below.

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