Size Dependent and Reactive Oxygen Species Related Nanosilver Toxicity to Nitrifying Bacteria

The intrinsic slow growth of nitrifying bacteria and their high sensitivity to environmental perturbations often result in cell growth inhibition by toxicants. Nanoparticles are of great concern to the environment because of their small size and high catalytic properties. This work sought to determine size-dependent inhibition by Ag nanoparticles and evaluate the relationship between the inhibition and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Nanoparticles with an average size range of 9-21 nm were synthesized by varying the molar ratios of BH4-/Ag+ in the solution. The resulting ROS generation was quantified in the presence and absence of the bacteria while the degree of inhibition was inferred from specific oxygen…

• NS
  National Science Foundation