In-Depth Survey Report: Assessment of Nanoparticle Emissions from a Chemical Laboratory using Carbon Nanotubes.

摘要

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Engineering and Physical Hazards Branch (EPHB) and the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) Environmental Health and Safety Team assessed nanoparticle emissions in a chemical laboratory at UMass Lowell. The laboratory conducted bench-top scale product development using 20-30 nm diameter bundles of single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The tasks evaluated in this study included weighing, mixing, sonicating, coating, drying, and cutting, which are common activities in most research and commercial production facilities. Weigh-out, mixing, and sonication were conducted on the bench-top without engineering controls, while coating, drying, and cutting were conducted inside a fume hood or a ventilated enclosure. The study results provide information on exposure potential and control for common nanomanufacturing processes.