The Emerging Emphasis On Nanometer Scale Particles.

The aim of this introductory talk is to introduce the joint S2, S3 and S11 symposium nanoparticles in the environment: Chemical properties and analytical challenges, microbial interactions, fate and transport and utilization for remediation. This overarching symposium will be structured over four non-overlapping sessions to allow participants to attend all sections of the symposium. In part one, up scaling nanoparticle properties: When <0.45- μm is no longer “dissolved”, the discussion will help define differences (or lack thereof) in the behavior of dissolved ions and nanoparticles that are observable at the field sampling scale, as well discuss the challenges and innovations in analytical techniques. Part two will explore microbial interactions with nanoparticles and nanomaterials. Part three, will focus on the potential environmental applications and implications of engineered nanomaterials. By introducing the invited speakers and presenting the relevant questions to be answered over the course of this symposium, this brief prologue will define the conversation in stimulating and beneficial terms to all attendees.