Human health hazards of persistent inorganic and carbon nanoparticles

Abstract

Persistent inorganic and carbon nanoparticles are increasingly engineered for applications and may also be present in conventional materials such as carbon black. Furthermore, they may originate from conventional non particulate materials by processes such as wear and tear. Persistent inorganic and carbon nanoparticles can be hazardous to humans. Relatively much research regards the hazards of inhaled nanoparticles. These may give rise to respiratory disease and to negative effects on other organs, including the cardiovascular system. Determinants of risk of inhaled nanoparticles include: number, size, surface characteristics, shape, structure, and the formation of assemblages. These determinants should preferentially be considered in exposure metrics. A major molecular mechanism underlying the inhalation hazard of nanoparticles is the generation of reactive oxygen species, but other mechanisms such as interactions with proteins and DNA may also contribute. Health hazards may also be linked to ingestion of persistent inorganic and carbon nanoparticles, dermal exposure and exposure of the eye. Standards for workplace exposure to persistent inorganic and carbon are currently emerging and there are options for hazard reduction by elimination and substitution of hazardous nanoparticles and by engineering controls.

Non-isothermal crystallization behaviors of poly(lactic acid)/cellulose nanofiber composites in the presence of CO2

“…Inorganic particulates such as nanoclay [8], nanosilica [8,34], graphene [35], and carbon nanotubes [26,36] have been extensively studied. However, these nanoparticulates are inorganic and pose considerable health risks from their manufacturing process to their final disposal [37,38]. In contrast, organic natural cellulosic fillers have attracted great interest in recent years due to their sustainability and natural abundance [39][40][41].…”

Risk management strategy to increase the safety of workers in the nanomaterials industry

“…For operating pattern change, the NMs production process change from dry operations to wet operations as much as possible in order to avoid worker contact with NMs. Furthermore, confined production process systems are effective of workers to avoid contact with NMs according to our field experiment and Reijnders [43]. Engineering control refers to the adoption of additional protective methods such as through engineering or technical means to prevent and limit sources of risk when such hazards cannot be removed [43].…”

Nano Diesel Soot Particles Reduce Wear and Friction Performance Using an Oil Additive on a Laser Textured Surface

“…The exhaust from diesel engines contains a mixture of gases and very small particles that can create a health hazard [1] when not properly controlled. The diesel soot (DS) is usually regarded as a harmful substance, which is washed away in the exhaust system.…”