Soil Science at the Nanoscale: A New View of Structure, Stability, and Reactivity

A revolution is occurring in science and technology as new methods and approaches allow scientists and engineers to investigate materials and processes at the nanoscale and to engineer new nanomaterials. Materials from ∼1 to 100 nm in size, where 1 nanometer = 10

−9

m, or 10Å, are generally considered to be nanomaterials. Nanomaterials are uquitous in near-Earth-surface environments, and often have properties that are distinct from those of single, small molecules or of larger, bulk materials. Many of the key components of soils, such as humic substances; iron, aluminum, and manganese oxides; and aluminosilicate clays may occur as nanoparticles or with nano-scale components or domains.This presentation will define terminology in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology as applied to soil science, and will describe some of the special properties and behaviors of nanomaterials in soils, drawing primarily from examples of Fe (hydr)oxides. The presentation will emphasize the importance of nanoscience as a new frontier in soil science, along with how the unique experience of soil scientists can benefit broader nano-scale research.