Characterizing nanoparticles can be challenging. We discuss methods for investigating key physicochemical parameters defining a nanoparticle sample.
Source: BAM, division Biophotonics
Researchers today have an unprecedented variety of measurement techniques at their disposal to measure and assign precise numerical values to different properties of materials. However, the key question “What to measure?” remains, and it is not straightforward to address, especially in nanoscience, as many different physicochemical properties define a nanoparticle sample. Moreover, methods based on different physical principles can probe different aspects of the same quantity. This concerns not only the particles themselves, but also their preparation history and their environment at the time of measurement. Understanding these connections can be of great value for interpreting characterization results and ultimately controlling the nanoparticle structure–function relationship. In this article, we discuss the current techniques, including their practical advantages and disadvantages, that enable the precise measurement of fundamental nanoparticle properties such as size, shape, surface charge, and porosity. Some recommendations of how the physicochemical parameters of nanoparticles should be investigated and how to fully characterize these properties in different environments according to the intended nanoparticle use are proposed. The intention is to improve comparability of nanoparticle properties and performance to ensure the successful transfer of scientific knowledge to industrial real‐world applications.
Nanoparticle characterization: What to measure?
Mario M. Modena, Bastian Rühle, Thomas P. Burg, Steffan Wuttke
published in Advanced Materials, Vol. 31, Issue 32, pages 1901556, 1, 2019
BAM, Division Biophotonics