Interactions of insoluble micro- and nanoparticles with the air-liquid interface of the model pulmonary fluids

The work discusses physicochemical phenomena related to interactions between the inhaled particles and the surface of pulmonary fluid which contains the lung surfactant. Dynamic surface phenomena which arise due to periodical variations of the interfacial area during breathing cycle are the extraordinary feature of this system and they are strictly related to the mechanics of ventilation and the pulmonary mass transfer processes. Presence of foreign material such as inhaled micro- and nanoparticles with different size, surface properties and morphology may alter these phenomena which may have some health consequences. This effect is discussed on two examples: mineral particles (CeO2) and carbonaceous particles emitted from diesel engine running on two different fuels. Two experimental methods of research in this field are presented: the Langmuir balance and the oscillating pendant drop. The results show the sensitivity of dynamic surface properties of the lung surfactant on exogenous materials which may be introduced to the respiratory system by inhalation of dusty air. Some physicochemical interpretation of these results is presented.