Ok Z.D., Isaacs J.A., Benneyan J.C.
Northeastern University, US
Keywords: health risk, HiPco, Monte Carlo simulation, SWNT, uncertainty
Considerable uncertainty exists regarding full-scale manufacturing costs, occupational risks, and probable future regulatory standards for various single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) manufacturing processes. Monte Carlo models have been developed to investigate these implications and compare alternate SWNT production technologies, employee protection investments, and the impact of possible future regulations. These models can be used to help manufacturers and policy makers make informed decisions. In most cases, however, the current level of uncertainties results in significant variability in 5, 10, and 25-year total cost projections and OH risks, coupled with inherent tradeoffs between cost, exposure, and uncertainty criteria. Variance-oriented experimental designs therefore are used to identify those factors that have the greatest impact on outcome variability. Moreover, such designs help distinguish between manufacturing concerns and policy decisions in the funding of research priorities. Desirability functions also are used to choose between alternate manufacturing processes and employee protection measures, treating the cost, OH risk expectations, and uncertainties, as multi-criteria.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Nanotechnology 2008: Life Sciences, Medicine & Bio Materials – Technical Proceedings of the 2008 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: June 1, 2008
Pages: 153 - 156
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topic: Environmental Health & Safety of Nanomaterials
ISBN: 978-1-4200-8504-4