Analysis of Ti- and Pb-based particles in the aqueous environment of Melbourne (Australia) via single particle ICP-MS

Abstract

The analysis of natural and anthropogenic nanomaterials (NMs) in the environment is challenging and requires methods capable to identify and characterise structures on the nanoscale regarding particle number concentrations (PNCs), elemental composition, size, and mass distributions. In this study, we employed single particle inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SP ICP-MS) to investigate the occurrence of NMs in the Melbourne area (Australia) across 63 locations. Poisson statistics were used to discriminate between signals from nanoparticulate matter and ionic background. TiO2-based NMs were frequently detected and corresponding NM signals were calibated with an automated data processing platform. Additionally, a method utilising a larger mass bandpass was developed to screen for particulate high-mass elements. This procedure identified Pb-based NMs in various samples. The effects of different environmental matrices consisting of fresh, brackish, or seawater were mitigated with an aerosol dilution method reducing the introduction of salt into the plasma and avoiding signal drift. Signals from TiO2- and Pb-based NMs were counted, integrated, and subsequently calibrated to determine PNCs as well as mass and size distributions. PNCs, mean sizes, particulate masses, and ionic background levels were compared across different locations and environments. Graphical abstract

Fluorine mapping via LA-ICP-MS/MS: a proof of concept for biological and geological specimens

“…However, the best gures of merit were found by nding a compromise between SQ and MS/MS conditions by alteration of the mass bandpass of the rst quadrupole. Known as bandpass mode developed for various ICP-MS set-ups including speciation, imaging or single particle analysis, [17][18][19]21,22 this method enhanced ion transmission by adapting the quadrupole's scanning line via manipulation of its slope and intercept. Using a mass bandwidth of 3 amu, it was possible to increase BaF + intensities without increasing background signicantly.…”

Facets of ICP-MS and their potential in the medical sciences—Part 2: nanomedicine, immunochemistry, mass cytometry, and bioassays

“…Within the environmental sciences, methods for the identification and characterisation of nanomaterials have been developed and may have a high utility for biomonitoring. Especially, ICP-ToF-MS [ 39 ] as well as non-target screening methods for sequential analysers [ 40 ] will become useful to identify and characterise a wide range of nano-scaled compounds regarding their impact on human health. This however will require dedicated sample preparation techniques and additional considerations.…”

Organic small-molecule fluorescent probe-based detection for alkali and alkaline earth metal ions in biological systems

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