Why do you think your paper is highly cited?

This paper answers one of the key questions regarding the fate of carbon nanotubes in the natural aqueous environment, a timely subject considering that there are widespread concerns regarding environmental implication of various nanomaterials.

Does it describe a new discovery, methodology, or synthesis of knowledge?

The paper found that, despite its extremely hydrophobic nature, carbon nanotubes might be dispersed in natural waterways due to interaction with natural organic matter via a route that has not been considered in past related studies.

Would you summarize the significance of your paper in layman's terms?

Nanomaterials might enter into the natural environment via previously unknown routes. As such, their environmental impact should be carefully assessed for the sustainable development of nanotechnology.

How did you become involved in this research, and were there any problems along the way?

Our group has been investigating carbon-based nanomaterials including C₆₀ and carbon nanotubes with respect to their environmental implication, including chemical transformation, interaction with microorganisms, etc. One of the challenges in these studies was the proper method of quantification in the natural water matrix, which was solved by introducing a new technique.

Where do you see your research leading in the future?

Many researchers in this field are currently studying the fate of various nanomaterials in the natural environment and their interactions with ecological systems. Our group is currently studying the interaction of carbon nanomaterials with various environmental receptors, including microorganisms and biological macromolecules. These collective efforts will ultimately contribute to the environmentally sustainable development of nanotechnology.

Do you foresee any social or political implications for your research?

These and related findings should not raise false alarms. This study only reports the "possibility." There seems to be no evidence of immediate environmental threats related to the findings of this study.

Jae-Hong Kim, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Environmental Engineering Program
School of Civil & Environmental Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA, USA

Keywords: carbon nanotubes natural aqueous environment, nanomaterials, environmental impact, carbon-based nanomaterials, environmental implication, chemical transformation, interaction with microorganisms, natural water matrix, various nanomaterials, natural environment, interactions with ecological systems, interaction of carbon nanomaterials with various environmental receptors, microorganisms, biological macromolecules.