Invited talk by Dr. Suvardhan Kanchi : “Size characterization of nanoscale structures by Field Flow Fractionation: Application to Food and Cosmetic products”

Dr. Suvardhan Kanchi, Associate Professor; Department of Chemistry, Sambhram Institute of Technology, Bengaluru

Abstract:

Field-Flow Fractionation (FFF) is a quasi-chromatographic method characterized by a single liquid phase separation induced by an external field applied to that of the direction of sample flow perpendicularly through a thin, flat (ribbon-like) channel and found to be one of the potential analytical tools in the separation and characterization of nanostructured materials. Silicon dioxide (SiO₂) has been mainstream in the application of foodstuffs as an anti-caking agent for many years, while titanium dioxide (TiO₂) protects against UV radiation in sunscreens. Studies have revealed both ingredients to contain nanoparticles, which raises possible concerns on human consumption and usage.

As such, a huge impetus has been placed upon the quality control and toxicological evaluation of cosmetic and food products. International bodies such as the European Commission (EC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have stressed the significance of nanomaterial regulation following the boom in production of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) in the current industrial climate. Upon consideration of these factors, several analytical methods have been evaluated for the size characterisation of SiO2 NPs and TiO2 NPs. This presentation is made into different sections ranging from Introduction to the applications followed by innovation.