Exposure assessment of nano-sized and respirable particles at different workplaces |
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Authors: | Chuen-Jinn Tsai Cheng-Yu Huang Sheng-Chieh Chen Chi-En Ho Cheng-Hsiung Huang Chun-Wan Chen Cheng-Ping Chang Su-Jung Tsai Michael J. Ellenbecker |
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Affiliation: | (1) Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, 1001 University Rd., Hsinchu, 30010, Taiwan;(2) Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University, 306 Yuanpei St., Hsinchu, 30010, Taiwan;(3) Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Council of Labor Affairs, Executive Yuan, 99, Lane 407, Hengke Road, Shijr, Taipei, 22143, Taiwan;(4) University of Massachusetts Lowell, One University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854, USA |
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Abstract: | In this study, nanoparticle (NP, diameter < 100 nm) and respirable particles measurements were conducted at three different nanopowder workplaces, including the mixing area of a nano-SiO2-epoxy molding compound plant (primary diameter: 15 nm), bagging areas of a nano-carbon black (nano-CB) (primary diameter: 32 nm) and a nano-CaCO3 (primary diameter: 94 nm) manufacturing plant. Chemical analysis of respirable particle mass (RPM) and NPs was performed to quantify the content of manufactured nanoparticles in the collected samples. Nanopowder products obtained from the plants were used in the laboratory dustiness testing using a rotating drum tester to obtain particle mass and number distributions. The obtained laboratory data were then used to elucidate the field data. Both field and laboratory data showed that NP number and mass concentrations of manufactured materials were close to the background level. Number concentration was elevated only for particles with the electrical mobility diameter >100 nm during bagging or feeding processes, unless there were combustion-related incidental sources existed. Large fraction of nanomaterials was found in the RPM due to agglomeration of nanomaterials or attachment of nanomaterials to the larger particles. From this study, it is concluded that RPM concentration measurements are necessary for the exposure assessment of nanoparticles in workplaces. |
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