Goehler D., Stintz M.
Technical University of Dresden, DE
Keywords: EH&S, nanoparticle release
Risks of substances to health, safety and environment arise by the coexistence of material toxicity and material exposure [1]. In view of the steadily increasing production, processing and use, a risk assessment of nanomaterials is necessary. In this context, systematic exposure studies on nanomaterials in laboratory can provide basic information about the ability and the quantity of nanoparticle release into the air [2]. Nanocomposite materials, where synthetic nano-objects are embedded in a solid surrounding matrix, become increasingly important as plastics materials and coatings. Numerous laboratory exposure studies attempted to demonstrate whether embedded nano-objects can be released into the air from the matrix material by mechanical treatment. Most have shown, that engineered nano-objects are firmly embedded in released wear or swarf [2]. Exeptions [e.g. 3] may be based on non-optimal sample preparation and/or conditioning (e.g. incomplete wetting, incomplete or no surface modification). Thus, a release of sufficiently high amounts of isolated nano-objects from well-prepared nanocomposites seems only be possible by prior chemical or thermal degradation of the matrix material [4]. Natural matrix material degradation with potential exposing of embedded nano-objects can arise from weather-caused impacts. Until now, only a few studies [e.g. 4-7] have dealt with nanoobject exposure characterization during or after artificial matrix material degradation.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2013: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 530 - 533
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Composite Materials
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0581-7