Response surface methology for enzymatic ultrasound assisted sp-ICP-MS assessment of cuonps in seafood: Occurrence and bioaccumulation

A novel approach for a reliable extraction and analytical characterization of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) at trace levels on seafood samples was tuned up using single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (sp-ICP-MS). Variables for enzymatic extraction of CuONPs were optimised via response surface methodology (RSM) analysis, to maximize both the extracted CuONPs mass and number concentrations without altering their native size and morphology. Analytical performance features of the whole (enzymatic ultrasound-assisted/sp-ICP-MS) approach were thoroughly evaluated. Furthermore, the proposed extraction approach demonstrated higher efficiency compared to an alternative alkaline hydrolysis-based methodology. Finally, nine seafood samples from diverse nature were analysed for CuONPs content and particle size by sp-ICP-MS, revealing significant NPs concentrations in most cases. Attained results enabled the assessment of health risks associated with CuONPs bioaccumulation in seafood organisms. •Enzymatic ultrasound extraction performed on seafood preserving NPs native size.•Working conditions for maximal extraction particle yield were determined using RSM.•Mass, number and size of CuONPs were monitored by sp-ICP-MS at trace levels.•CuONPs presence was detected in mollusk and surimi, but not in algae samples.•Assessment of CuONPs bioaccumulation in seafood was conducted through NBCF indexes.