Galyean A.A., Vreeland W.N., Filliben J.J., Holbrook R.D., Weinberg H.S.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, US
Keywords: AF4, asymmetric flow field flow fractionation, complex matrix, differential number fraction, nanomaterials, polydispersity, QELS, quasi-elastic light scattering, separation
The development of standardized and optimized methods to monitor the behavior of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) in complex environments is considered a critical component in ENM risk assessment. Robust, rigorously optimized methods are currently lacking, in part because of matrix variability, sample polydispersity, and a lack of understanding how primary instrument factors affect method performance. To this end, a practical and effective separation method has been explored that optimizes asymmetric flow field flow fractionation (AF4) separation protocols with an online quasi-elastic light scattering (QELS) detector. An assessment metric to better interpret particle sizing data following separation of complex nanomaterial samples was identified using a hydrodynamic radius differential that determines relative separation protocol success. Using this metric, the AF4 separation of a complex sample can be optimized. Full optimization is realized when a higher retention separation does not produce a smaller measured radius differential that is larger than the associated uncertainty.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 2014 Clean Technology Conference and Trade Show
Published: June 15, 2014
Pages: 387 - 390
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Sustainable Materials
ISBN: 978-1-4822-5819-6