Nanoparticles in Soil: Emerging Contaminants and Their Environmental Behavior

Daphne Iking^*
*Correspondence: Daphne Iking, Department of Earth and Sea Science, University of Palermo, via Archirafi, 22, 90123 Palermo, Italy, Email:

Introduction

Nanotechnology has revolutionized various sectors, including medicine, agriculture, electronics and environmental engineering. However, the increased use and disposal of nanomaterials have led to their accumulation in the environment, with soils being a major sink for these particles. Engineered Nanoparticles (ENPs), including metal oxides, carbon-based particles and quantum dots, are now classified as emerging contaminants due to their increasing presence and poorly understood long-term effects on terrestrial ecosystems. These materials enter soil systems through wastewater irrigation, bio solid application, pesticide formulations, atmospheric deposition and industrial discharges. Once in the soil, the behavior of nanoparticles is influenced by their physicochemical properties such as size, surface charge and coating, as well as by environmental factors including pH, organic matter content and microbial activity.

One of the main concerns is the potential for nanoparticles to alter soil biogeochemistry. Studies have demonstrated that nanoparticles can disrupt microbial communities, inhibit enzymatic activity and interfere with nutrient cycling. For example, silver nanoparticles, known for their antimicrobial properties, have shown toxicity to beneficial soil bacteria, which could compromise soil health and fertility in the long term. Additionally, nanoparticles can interact with soil colloids, altering the mobility of heavy metals or organic pollutants by acting as carriers or by changing redox conditions. This can increase the bioavailability of harmful substances, thus posing further risks to soil organisms and plants [1].

Description

The fate and transport of nanoparticles in the soil environment are complex and dependent on aggregation, dissolution and surface interactions. For instance, titanium dioxide nanoparticles may aggregate under certain conditions, limiting their mobility, while under others they may remain suspended and migrate to groundwater. Furthermore, the transformation of nanoparticles due to oxidation, sulfidation, or interaction with natural organic matter can change their reactivity and toxicity. This dynamic behavior makes risk assessment particularly challenging, as conventional models of contaminant transport may not apply to nanoscale materials. Understanding the environmental behavior of nanoparticles in soil is critical for developing regulatory frameworks and mitigation strategies. Current analytical techniques are limited in detecting and quantifying nanoparticles in complex soil matrices, which hinders the accurate evaluation of exposure and risks.

Therefore, interdisciplinary research integrating soil science, nanotechnology, toxicology and environmental chemistry is needed to bridge the knowledge gaps. Policies must also adapt to the evolving nature of nanoparticle use and disposal, promoting sustainable nanotechnology practices that minimize environmental release [2]. The presence of nanoparticles in soil is a growing concern due to their unique properties and increasing use across industries. Their small size and high reactivity allow them to interact with soil components in ways that traditional pollutants do not. This can disrupt microbial activity, nutrient availability and contaminant mobility. While some nanoparticles may become immobilized or transformed in the soil, others remain mobile and potentially hazardous. The lack of comprehensive detection methods and standardized risk assessment protocols adds to the complexity. Therefore, understanding the behavior and long-term impacts of nanoparticles in soil systems is crucial for developing effective environmental regulations and promoting safe use of nanomaterials. Further interdisciplinary research is necessary to close current knowledge gaps and ensure sustainable environmental practices.â??

Conclusion

The increasing presence of nanoparticles in soil ecosystems is a pressing environmental issue that warrants urgent scientific and regulatory attention. Due to their nanoscale size, high surface reactivity and diverse chemical compositions, nanoparticles interact with soil particles, water, organic matter and microorganisms in complex ways that are not yet fully understood. These interactions can lead to changes in soil structure, nutrient availability and microbial diversity, potentially disrupting essential soil functions. Moreover, nanoparticles can be absorbed by plants and enter the food chain, raising concerns about their potential toxicity to humans and animals. The persistence and mobility of these particles also challenge traditional remediation and risk assessment strategies. While some nanoparticles may offer agricultural benefits such as enhanced fertilizer delivery or pest control their unintended accumulation in soil could have long-term detrimental effects. To address these challenges, interdisciplinary research is needed to explore the environmental behavior, bioavailability and transformation of nanoparticles under varying soil conditions. Regulatory frameworks should be updated to include guidelines specific to nanomaterials, emphasizing precautionary principles and environmental monitoring. Public awareness and responsible innovation are equally crucial to ensure that the benefits of nanotechnology do not come at the cost of ecological health. As nanotechnology continues to advance, a balanced approach that prioritizes environmental safety alongside technological development is essential for preserving soil quality and ecosystem resilience in the face of emerging nanoparticle contamination.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

1. Mhaya, Akram M., S. Baharom, Mohammad Hajmohammadian Baghban and Moncef L. Nehdi, et al. "Systematic experimental assessment of POFA concrete incorporating waste tire rubber aggregate." Polymers 14 (2022): 2294.

 Google Scholar      Cross Ref     Indexed at

2. Lakhiar, Muhammad Tahir, Sih Ying Kong, Yu Bai and Susilawati Susilawati, et al. "Thermal and mechanical properties of concrete incorporating silica fume and waste rubber powder." Polymers 14 (2022): 4858.

Google Scholar      Cross Ref     Indexed at