Characterization of mineral nanoparticles in dust and colloids

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The objective of this environmental earth science research is to characterize tiny mineral particles which are transported as airborne dust and waterborne colloids. The emphasis will be on particles that contain potentially hazardous elements including arsenic and lead, with the aim of clarifying the risk to human and ecological health. There has been limited research on how these materials move in the environment. In terms of human health, direct ingestion or inhalation of tiny mineral particles can lead to negative health effects which depend on the chemical form of the metal in the dust particles. In terms of ecological impact, windblown dust may be an important mechanism of metal transport from a point source to surface water, and colloidal particles can move with groundwater and contribute to metal contamination.