Exposure Assessment and Risk Characterization of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials at Different Production Scales

Abstract

Data on the potential impact on human health of engineered nanomaterials are still scarce, with an evident lack of knowledge on the exposure levels at all stages of the life cycle. By prioritizing the responsible handling of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), companies can promote sustainability by minimizing the risks of occupational exposure, protecting employee well-being, reducing liability, and avoiding costly environmental remediation efforts. This research aims to evaluate the risk in real scenarios involving the use of carbon-based nanomaterials in research laboratories, pilot-scale facilities, and industrial settings. Several online and offline instruments have been employed to characterize the particulate matter present in these environments, including particles in the nanometer range and relevant fractions for risk assessment purposes. Samples collected on polycarbonate filters were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Exposure estimation has been performed by applying a decision based on tier 2 from the nanoGEM methodology, with the weighing and transferring of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) in a pilot plant being the most liberating processes, which are the activities with the highest risk of exposure. In addition, high levels of particle concentration, with peaks up to 1.7 × 105 and 4.7 × 105 part/cm3, have been found for the dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and incorporation of carbonaceous nanoparticles into resins, respectively.