Elucidating the Role of Extracellular Polymeric Substances in Nanoparticle Attachment to/Detachment from Produce Surfaces

The objective of the project is to develop preliminary data exploring the fundamental thermodynamic interactions between three specific nanomaterials likely to see agricultural application (ZnO, Ag NP, and zeolite), and the surfaces of three different types of produce (lettuce, spinach, and alfalfa seed sprouts), both in the presence and absence of different naturally-occurring biofilms. The results of the work will provide an initial thermodynamic data set which can guide future research, and allow a quantitative initial assessment of how specific biofilms impact nanomaterial attachment to- and detachment from produce surfaces. The work will also provide initial insights that could ultimately lead to enhanced washing strategies for removal of attached agricultural nanomaterials.