Low mobility of CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles in agricultural soils of contrasting texture and organic matter content

The fate of nanoparticles (NPs) in soil under relevant environmental conditions is still poorly understood. In this study, the mobility two metal-oxide (CuO and TiO2) contrasting agricultural soils was investigated water-saturated columns. transport TiO2 CuO-NPs were assessed six with three different textures (from sand to clay) contrasted organic matter (OM) contents for each texture. very low all soils, regardless texture OM content. Mass recoveries always less than 5%, probably relation strong homo-aggregation TiO2-NPs observed solutions, apparent sizes 3–6 times larger their nominal size. This suggests that present a risk direct groundwater contamination surface soils. Although retention also generally high (more 86%), CuO found be mobile related smaller size capacity solutions. No clear influence neither or total content could on transport. However, study shows mainly controlled by solutes dissolved solution (DOC PO4 species), rather properties solid phase.