Thursday, 24th February 2005 (3317 views)

Nanoparticles of gold and palladium could be used to help tackle a persistent pollutant, according to US scientists.

Researchers working at Rice University's Centre for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology say they have identified the two precious metals as optimum catalysts to tackle trichloroethene (TCE).

The research will be outlined in the next edition of the journal Environmental Science and Technology, which makes clear the potential of the new technology.

"The advantages…are well-documented, but so is the cost," explained lead researcher Michael Wong.

"Using nanotechnology, we were able to maximize the…atoms that come in contact with TCE molecules and improve efficiency."

The breakthrough could hold significant advantages for dealing with TCE, which is typically used as a solvent when treating electronics.

It is reputed as a particularly toxic and prevalent groundwater pollutant, with the US defence department calculating the standard cost of treating the 1,400 TCE-contaminated sites at a staggering $5 billion.

 

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