Themed collection Recent Open Access Articles


Leveraging engineered nanomaterials to support material circularity
There are numerous opportunities for nanomaterials and nanotechnology to support circular economy adoption. In this perspective, we present the important role engineered nanomaterials can play in advancing the circularity of bulk composite materials.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2885-2893
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00110A

Electrified CO2 valorization in emerging nanotechnologies: a technical analysis of gas feedstock purity and nanomaterials in electrocatalytic and bio-electrocatalytic CO2 conversion
This perspective illuminates the crucial need to consider gas feedstock purity and source when designing new electrified CO2 conversion nanomaterials.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1770-1783
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00912B

Recycling of non-product outputs containing rare elements originating in nanomaterial syntheses
Recycling of non-product outputs containing substantial amounts of rare elements originating in nanomaterial syntheses is relatively attractive as rare elements tend to be more valuable than abundant elements.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 684-687
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00795B

In vitro-based human toxicity effect factors: challenges and opportunities for nanomaterial impact assessment
Drawing the picture of the opportunities and challenges of using in vitro data to calculate effect factors in LCA.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 1913-1925
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01014J

Bioengineering applications of black phosphorus and their toxicity assessment
An overall structure of this review.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 3452-3477
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00273B

Recent advances in applications of MXenes for desalination, water purification and as an antibacterial: a review
Membranes have become a basis in tackling the global challenge of freshwater scarcity, notably in the fields of desalination and water purification.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1012-1036
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00427B

Advancements in nanosensors for detecting pathogens in healthcare environments
ESKAPEE pathogens: where we can find them in hospital environments and how to detect them through nanotechnologies devices.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4449-4474
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00381K

Understanding the role of biomolecular coronas in human exposure to nanomaterials
The distinct molecules composing the biological fluids lead to different coronas on NMs, altering their physicochemical properties and affect their biological fate.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4421-4448
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00488D

Magnetically recyclable nanophotocatalysts in photocatalysis-involving processes for organic pollutant removal from wastewater: current status and perspectives
The critical review covers the applications, associated mechanisms, challenges, and prospects of magnetically recyclable nanophotocatalysts in photocatalysis-related processes.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1784-1816
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00906H

Graphene-based nanomaterials and microbial communities: a review of their interactions, from ecotoxicology to bioprocess engineering perspectives
This review discusses the interactions between graphene-based nanomaterials and microbial communities in different environmental compartments reconstituted in microcosms, from soil and freshwater to bioprocesses treating waste.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3725-3741
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00547F

Emerging investigator series: metal nanoparticles in freshwater: transformation, bioavailability and effects on invertebrates
MNPs may undergo different environmental transformations in aquatic systems, consequently changing their mobility, bioavailability and toxicity to freshwater invertebrates.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 2237-2263
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00052K

Determination of metallic nanoparticles in biological samples by single particle ICP-MS: a systematic review from sample collection to analysis
A systematic review of the use of single particle ICP-MS to analyse engineered nanomaterials in biological samples has highlighted that efforts have focused on a select few compositions and there is a lack of information for some important tissues.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 420-453
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00680K

Insights on toxicity, safe handling and disposal of silica aerogels and amorphous nanoparticles
The toxicity and ecotoxicity effects, handling and disposal of synthetic amorphous silica nanoparticles and aerogels are reviewed and discussed.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1177-1195
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00026H

Critical overview on the green synthesis of carbon quantum dots and their application for cancer therapy
A critical review which delves into the advantages of the use of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) in nano-based cancer therapy, which includes its more positive environmental impact compared to previous systems.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 848-862
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00017A

Emerging investigator series: suspended air nanobubbles in water can shuttle polystyrene nanoplastics to the air–water interface
Suspended nanoplastics can be removed from the water column with nanobubbles if interparticle repulsive forces are overcome by pH adjustment.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3721-3728
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00188E

Nanoscale control over water-film thickness using temperature modulation: tuning mineral carbonation reactivity
Temperature modulation was demonstrated as a novel way to control water partitioning during the reaction of silicate minerals with water-saturated supercritical carbon dioxide.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1412-1416
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00884C

Nanoparticles in bodily tissues: predicting their equilibrium distributions
We successfully predict distribution of nanoparticles (NPs) in human tissues applying surface energies for NPs, membranes, plasma and protein, considering various biochemical interactions. Phagocyte-rich and cancerous tissues accumulate NPs.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 424-439
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00469K

Commercial photocatalyst changes the behavior of Formica pratensis and Formica polyctena
Commercial titania modified the behavior of ants by changing their cuticular hydrocarbon profile composition through photocatalytic oxidation.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 72-79
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01119G

Emerging investigator series: aramid amphiphile nanoribbons for the remediation of lead from contaminated water
Aramid amphiphiles with chelating head groups spontaneously form robust nanoribbons in water with surfaces capable of heavy metal remediation.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1536-1542
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00002K

Local infrared spectral measurement system for the inspection of independent nano-plastic particles in water-based solutions
An analytical processing design is proposed to accumulate nano-plastics diluted in water-based solvents and evaluate their individual IR spectral properties.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1107-1115
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00379A

Polymer–iron oxide nanofiber composites for lead removal: performance improvements through organic acid stabilization of nanoparticles to promote surface segregation during electrospinning
Polymer–iron oxide nanofiber composites.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1487-1500
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00902A

Insights in photocatalytic/Fenton-based degradation of microplastics using iron-modified titanium dioxide aerogel powders
Degradation of microplastics (MPs) through the photocatalytic and photo-Fenton process using Fe-modified TiO2 aerogel powders.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1515-1530
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00818A

UV-B degradation affects nanoplastic toxicity and leads to release of small toxic substances
UV-B irradiation on 53 nm amine modified polystyrene nanoparticles lowers the toxicity to Daphnia magna and releases small toxic molecules.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1177-1185
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00795F

Adaptive responses of Bacillus subtilis underlie differential nanoplastic toxicity with implications for root colonization
The toxicity of nanoplastics bound to plant growth-promoting bacteria strongly depends on their mode of growth, significantly limiting their ability to colonize roots.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1477-1486
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00936C

Impact of different soil solutions on the stability and photocatalytic activity of commercial zinc oxide nanoparticles
Regardless of changes of ZnO NPs after interaction with the soil solutions, it remains active!
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 1328-1339
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00354C

Multifunctional textured graphene-based coatings on elastomeric gloves for chemical protection
Wrinkled graphene coatings are engineered to fulfill multiple functions desired for ultrathin gloves that prevent human exposure to chemical toxicants.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 433-449
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00601A

Are Ni–SiC nanoparticle electroplated coatings a safer alternative to hard chromium? A comprehensive aging, toxicity, and in silico study to assess safety by design
This paper investigates the toxicological concerns associated with nickel–silicon carbide (Ni–SiC) electroplated nanocomposite coatings as an alternative to conventional chromium electrodeposition.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 894-908
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00751D

Interfacial adsorption and dynamics of fluorotelomers with soil minerals – mechanistic insights
This study determines the critical interactions that dictate the adsorption characteristics of fluorotelomers in the confined pores of neutral, low and high charged clay minerals in soil.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 850-862
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00465E

Interfacial behavior of ceria grown on graphene oxide and its use for hydrolytic and photocatalytic decomposition of bisphenols A, S, and F
CeO2/graphene oxide nanocomposites efficiently degrade bisphenols A, S, and F. Hydrolytic cleavage of bisphenol S was observed even without any illumination.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 502-513
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00787E

Safe-by-design assessment of an SiO2@ZnO multi-component nanomaterial used in construction
Implementation of the safe and sustainable by design framework using cement mortar containing an SiO2@ZnO multi-component nanomaterial for NOx degradation as a case study.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 762-776
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00352G

Nanocarrier foliar uptake pathways affect delivery of active agents and plant physiological response
Top-side foliar application of layered double hydroxide penetrates the cuticle better, accumulates between epidermal cell walls, and improves plant performance more than bottom-side application.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 660-674
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00547C

Effects of weathering and simulated gastric fluid exposure on cellular responses to polystyrene particles
Micro and nanoplastics pose a growing environmental threat with complex implications for human health.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 528-547
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00444B

Synergistic impacts of nanopollutants (nZnO) and hypoxia on bioenergetics and metabolic homeostasis in a marine bivalve Mytilus edulis
nZnO exposure disrupts metabolism and delays post-hypoxic recovery in mussels.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 576-596
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00479E

Effects of fullerene C60 on the uptake of nitrogen and mineral elements in crops using synchrotron radiation micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (SR-μXRF) and stable isotope labelling
C60 could regulate the absorption of nitrogen and 15 nutrient elements in these crops. Their contents and changes were determined simultaneously by using stable isotope labeling technology combined with SR-μXRF.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 481-490
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00310A

Impact of size and UV-ageing of polystyrene nanoparticles on copper(II) adsorption: kinetics and isotherms in aquatic environments
Size-dependent adsorption of Cu2+ ions onto polystyrene nanoparticles in aquatic environments: influence of UV-ageing, temperature and salt ions in the medium.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2025,12, 548-562
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00433G

Environmentally persistent free radicals readily form on TiO2 but not on ZnO nanoparticles
Nanoparticles like TiO2 and ZnO can form harmful, stable pollutants called EPFRs. But TiO2 readily forms even at low temperatures. This finding suggests these pollutants can form in many environments.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4717-4729
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00500G

Removal of Pb-based compounds mediated by graphene oxide-like materials obtained from Sargassum: unravelling key features of their interaction using density functional theory and spectroscopic methods
Graphene oxide obtained from biomass possesses a rich variety of properties and applications. Sargassum, a macroalgae abundant in the Caribbean Sea, has been proposed as a viable and cost-effective biomass.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4372-4380
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00301B

Biobased, biodegradable but not bio-neutral: about the effects of polylactic acid nanoparticles on macrophages
Macrophages treated with polylactide beads degrade them but show various responses in the meantime.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4102-4116
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00335G

Two-stage hierarchical clustering for analysis and classification of mineral sunscreen and naturally occurring nanoparticles in river water using single-particle ICP-TOFMS
Ti- and Zn-containing nanoparticles from a mineral-based sunscreen are detected and classified against the natural particle background from river water using single-particle ICP-TOFMS and hierarchical clustering analysis.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4162-4173
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00288A

Diatom-derived extracellular polymeric substances form eco-corona and enhance stability of silver nanoparticles
Extracellular polymeric substances from the diatom Cyclotella meneghiniana adsorb onto citrate-coated nAg, forming an eco-corona and reducing nanoparticle dissolution and aggregation.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 4138-4150
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00232F

Atmospheric emissions of Ti-containing nanoparticles from industrial activities in China
Our study presents an atmospheric inventory of Ti-containing NPs from industrial sources, highlighting environmental risks and informing strategies for pollution control and public health protection.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3816-3825
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00347K

Extensive HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry characterization of soluble degradation products of biodegradable nanoplastics under environmentally relevant temperature and irradiation conditions
The low molecular weight degradation products of nanosize biodegradable plastics were identified by mass spectrometry. The only detected products for PLA, PCL and PET were found to a rise from hydrolysis.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3956-3965
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00960B

In chemico methodology for engineered nanomaterial categorization according to number, nature and oxidative potential of reactive surface sites
Methanol probe chemisorption quantifies the number of reactive surface sites of engineered nanomaterials, enabling normalization per reactive site in reactivity and toxicity tests, rather than per mass or physical surface area.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3744-3760
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00810J

Nano-TiO2 immobilized polyvinylidene fluoride based spongy-spheres for ciprofloxacin photocatalytic degradation: antibacterial activity removal, mechanisms, UVA LED irradiation and easy recovery
An easy recoverable TiO2-immobilized PVDF bead photocatalyst with stable Ti–F binding for water treatment under UVA LED irradiation and efficient usage of TiO2 nanoparticles is presented.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3729-3743
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00302K

Nanoformulations from olive pomace to enhance the efficacy of hydroxytyrosol as a natural pest control agent
Biocompatible nanoformulations made from olive pomace and egg yolk phosphatidylcholine to deliver hydroxytyrosol as an antiparasitic agent.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3625-3636
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00226A

Uptake and physiological impacts of nanoplastics in trees with divergent water use strategies
Anthropogenic contaminants can place significant stress on vegetation, especially when they are taken up into plants.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3574-3584
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00286E

Morphologic alterations across three levels of biological organization following oral exposure to silver-polymer nanocomposites in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Exposure to AgNP-polymer nanocomposites and its individual component materials results in widespread but differing toxicologic effects.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3317-3334
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00368C

Fate and biological uptake of polystyrene nanoparticles in freshwater wetland ecosystems
Wetland mesocosms retained nanoplastics. Nanoplastics where taken up by freshwater invertebrates and macrophytes and mainly ended up in the sediments of the water compartment.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3475-3486
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00628J

Bioaccumulation and human risk assessment of inorganic nanoparticles in aquaculture species
Potential bioaccumulation and human oral bioavailability of TiO2 NPs and Ag NPs in aquaculture products.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2937-2947
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00167B

Quantifying mechanical abrasion of AgNP nanocomposites: influence of AgNP content on abrasion products and rate of microplastic production
Abrasion study of Ag–PETG nanocomposites helps to estimate how much AgNP microplastics are released from composite products during use or into the environment during their lifecycle.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2968-2977
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00888F

The endocrine disruptor effect of metal nanoparticles mainly depends on their capacity to release metal ions
This study compares the impact of different types of metal nanoparticles on major endocrine pathways. It shows that metal ions releasing ones such as silver nanoparticles inhibit Zn-finger dependent pathways, while rock solid nanoparticles do not.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 3192-3201
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00065J

Advanced materials earliest assessment (AMEA)
AMEA supports innovators in the earliest phases of material development. AMEA provides design rules and recommends more testing requirements and/or specific methods depending on the positioning of the material in categories.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2948-2967
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00831B

Bio-based carbon foams assembled with Fe nanoparticles for simultaneous remediation of As, Hg and PAHs in co-contaminated industrial soils
Sucrose foams are novel nanocomposites to remediate co-contaminated soils without affecting pH and EC or Fe availability in the soils.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2683-2692
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00927K

Functional silver-based nanomaterials affecting zebrafish development: the adverse outcomes in relation to the nanoparticle physical and chemical structure
The green and safe polymer HEC confers bio-interactive properties to Ag-Nps that, together with the small size and positive ζ potential, increase their biological reactivity towards zebrafish embryos.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2521-2540
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00813D

Green chemistry: advancing planetary phosphorus sustainability through the synergy of graphene oxide modified with magnetic nanoparticles (M@GO) for extracting tertiary effluent phosphorus in sewage treatment plants
The M@GO sorbent is easily separated from wastewater by a magnetic field.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2607-2619
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00859B

Impact of CeO2 nanoparticles on the microbiota of the S. flos-cuculi L. (Caryophyllaceae) rhizosphere
Influence of cerium oxide nanoparticles (nCeO2) on root bacterial composition and the associated substrate (root zone soil) of Silene flos-cuculi (L.) by metabarcoding.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2157-2172
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00479A

Biowaste valorization: multifunctional hybrid lignin/TiO2 nanostructures for bacterial-biocide disinfection and dye removal
Hybrid lignin TiO2 nanoparticles: red-ox activity enables biocide disinfection and dye removal.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2127-2144
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EN00091A

Plasmonic-based Raman sensor for ultra-sensitive detection of pharmaceutical waste
Pharmaceutical waste and contaminants pose a significant global concern for water and food safety.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 2083-2090
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00821E

AF4-MALS-SP ICP-ToF-MS analysis gives insight into nature of HgSe nanoparticles formed by cetaceans
Hg : Se atomic ratios in NPs formed in whales were constant with increasing particle size. The NPs also incorporated other metals (Cd, Sn) indicating that this process may not act exclusively as a MeHg detoxification process.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1883-1890
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00886J

The effects of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots on autofluorescence properties and growth of algae Desmodesmus communis: dependence on cultivation medium
The cultivation media markedly influence the quantum dot induced effects on photosynthesis properties and growth of green freshwater microalgae.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1701-1712
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00955F

Influence of time and ageing conditions on the properties of ferrihydrite
Storage conditions affect the initial tetrahedral iron and hydroxyl populations of ferrihydrite, both are correlated and decrease over time as function of ageing.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1682-1692
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00828B

Selective metal recovery by mucin: turning gold from wastewater into a peroxymonosulfate-activated catalyst
This study explores mucin's ability to selectively recover gold (Au) from metal wastewater. The Au, in the form of a nanoparticle, was utilized in peroxymonosulfate activation for the degradation of bisphenol A.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1487-1498
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00699A

Toward environmentally favorable nano-sensing by production of reusable gold nanoparticles from gold nano-waste: life cycle and nanocircular economy implications
This study aids in the identification of environmentally friendly and sustainable applications of gold nanoparticles.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1499-1507
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00505D

Particles in a box: novel design and evaluation of an adaptable engineering control enclosure for a common split tube furnace to eliminate occupational exposure to refractory ceramic insulation fibers
Split tube furnaces routinely used in nanotechnology laboratories to generate C-based nanomaterials rely on refractory ceramic insulation fibers, which can pose an inhalation risk to operators.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 889-899
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00041A

Gold and titania nanoparticles accumulated in the body induce late toxic effects and alterations in transcriptional and miRNA landscape
Conventional toxicological methods and integrated transcriptomic analysis were used to comprehensively assess the potential health hazard of residual metal nanoparticles accumulated in the body due to poor solubility.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1296-1313
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00954H

Super stable evaporators based on upcycled self-healing adsorbents for wastewater regeneration
Establishing a self-healing platform for the removal and resource recovery of heavy metals, enabling heavy metal-free drinking water.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1271-1282
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00829K

Similarity of multicomponent nanomaterials in a safer-by-design context: the case of core–shell quantum dots
Concepts of similarity applied to complex multicomponent advanced materials for an informed balance of performance and hazard.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 924-941
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00338H

Multifunctional halloysite nanotube–polydopamine agro-carriers for controlling bacterial soft rot disease
Halloysite nanotube-polydopamine core–shell nano-carriers loaded with thymol offer a sustainable alternative to existing pesticide formulations while providing enhanced efficacy, stability, and crop safety.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1114-1128
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00934C

Photocatalytic and surface properties of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in soil solutions
Effet of chemical compounds in soil solution to the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 NPs.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1204-1216
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00622K

Precursor- and waste-free synthesis of spark-ablated nanoparticles with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability towards airborne organic pollutant degradation
Environmentally friendly and waste-free production of photocatalytic filters involving spark ablation and calcination processes for enhanced and durable photocatalytic performance.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2024,11, 1023-1043
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EN00348E
About this collection
Please see below for recent Open Access papers published in Environmental Science: Nano.