Applications of Nanoparticles in Elemental Speciation

Abstract

Nanoparticles, notable for their small size, high surface area to volume ratios, and strong adsorption capacity, have been the subject of great interest in analytical chemistry. Over the past decade, nanoparticles have been widely used as adsorbents for elemental speciation. Elemental ions or chelates may interact with nanoparticles by van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonds, and hydrophobic interactions. Various types of nanoparticles used for elemental speciation, including magnetic nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, metallic oxide nanoparticles, nanostructured mixed oxides, and ion imprinted polymer nanoparticles, are reviewed. Future trends and development in this research area are discussed.

Keywords:

• Elemental speciation analysis
• Nanoparticles
• Review