Different Uptake of Metal Dioxide Nanoparticles (Ceria Nanoparticles, Zirconia Nanoparticles and Silica Nanoparticles) by Wheat

Metal dioxide nanoparticles (NPs) are produced in ever-increasing amounts and widely used in industrial, medical and consumer products. They may pose potential risks to the environment. In this study we quantitatively evaluated the phytoavailability of CeO 2 NPs, ZrO 2 NPs and SiO 2 NPs to wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.). Metal dioxide NPs showed distinct differences in uptake, with uptake rate constants of 90.2 ± 9.9, 12.2 ± 2.5, 0.4 ± 0.02 and 0.9 ± 0.1 L kg −1  h −1 for ZrO 2 NPs, CeO 2 NPs, SiO 2 NPs (13 nm) and SiO 2 NPs (25 nm), respectively. However, such difference cannot be generalized by single factor of NP characteristics and/or root damage. This study provides fundamental information for NP uptake by crop plants.