Invited
Nanoparticles imprinted matrices: A method for the selective detection of nanoparticles

This contribution deals with a new area that aims to detect selectively nanoparticles (NPs). With the benefits that NPs bring due to their unique properties that are a result of their size, they also pose a threat. Indeed, nanotoxicology is a new discipline, which deals with the adverse effects of NPs. Evidently, the detection of NPs requires the development of appropriate tools. These interactions are affected by the core, size, shape, and stabilizing shell of the NPs. Hence, speciation of NPs, is becoming of utmost importance.

We have developed a new concept for the selective recognition and detection of NPs termed NPs imprinted matrices (NAIM). It is analogous to the well-known concept of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) in which the molecular analyte is imprinted in a polymer by polymerization of proper monomers with which it chemically associates. The removal of the template forms complementary cavities capable of selective recognition of the analyte. Instead of molecular species, we imprint NPs in various matrices. The NPs are then removed to form nanometric voids that can selectively recognize the originally imprinted NPs.

We will present a few new systems by which we show how NPs can be imprinted inside a matrix. What are the conditions for their removal and reuptake and what makes the matrix selective and sensitive towards the originally imprinted NPs.