Mobility of engineered nanoparticles in the subsurface with particular focus on the partially saturated zone

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Nanotechnology is an emerging industry in Canada and throughout the world. This new area is met with both excitement and scepticism. On the one hand there are tremendous technological opportunities through the exploitation of the unique properties of nanoparticles. On the other hand, there is concern that nanoparticles will have adverse effects on human and ecological health when, accidentally or intentionally, they are released to the environment. Concerns have been raised regarding the acute and chronic health effects of ingesting or inhaling these particles, which are 1000 times smaller in diameter than a human hair. In terms of groundwater reservoirs, there are concerns that nanoparticles may contaminate vast areas by moving through microscopic flow channels in soil and rock. The risks of nanoparticles in subsurface environments are as yet unknown, limited by a lack of basic scientific understanding of nanoparticle transport in water bearing soils. Environment Canada estimates that 29% of Canadians consume groundwater and many more depend on groundwater indirectly through agriculture and industry; thus, the long-term protection of this resource is essential.