Analysis and Characterisation of Metal-Based Nanomaterials, Volume 93 in the Comprehensive Analytical Chemistry series, introduces recent developments in analytical methodologies for detection, characterization and quantification of metal-based nanomaterials and their applications to a variety of complex environmental, biological and food samples as well as different consumer products. Single-particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is highlighted as a powerful analytical tool for number-based concentration and size distribution, also from the metrological viewpoint. An emerging approach for the measurement of multi-metal nanoparticles by single-particle inductively coupled plasma time-of-flight mass spectrometry is discussed. Imaging of metal-based nanoparticles by hyphenated inductively coupled plasma-based techniques is also introduced. The potential of different liquid chromatography and field flow fractionation separation techniques hyphenated to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is emphasized as a powerful tool in particular for complex matrices and small particles sizes. The use of different microscopic techniques for the characterization of metal-based nanoparticles and characterization of metal-based nanoparticles as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging are presented. Moreover, occurrence, behaviour and fate of inorganic nanoparticles in the environment is overviewed. Finally, the need for quality control standards and reference nano-materials is emphasized throughout.

This volume provides a comprehensive overview of environmental aspects of the Sava River, which is the greatest tributary to the Danube River and the major drainage river system of South Eastern Europe. Hydroelectric power plants, river traffic, intensive agricultural activities, heavy industry and floods have considerable influence on the environment and biota in the basin. Summarizing the results that were gathered in the course of EU, bilateral and national projects, the book highlights the most important stressors and helps readers to better understand the impact of anthropogenic activities on the function of river basins. Topics include: transboundary water cooperation between the riparian countries; climate change projection, including its impact on flood hazards; evaluation of anthropogenic pollution sources; pollution of sediments, metal bioavailability and ecotoxicological and microbiological characterization of the river. The biological part also addresses quality aspects related to wildlife in river aquatic ecosystems (algae, macrophytes, zooplankton, macroinvertebrates and fish) and riparian ecosystems (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals). The general state of biodiversity and pressures caused by invasive aquatic species are also discussed.