Professional Documents
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Table of contents
Introduction........................................................................................................................................... 2
Nanomaterials and their hazards ........................................................................................................ 2
Properties of nanomaterials ................................................................................................................. 5
Laboratory Safety Guide for handling of nanoparticles ................................................................... 6
Current Best Laboratory Practices for Nanomaterial Research...................................................... 7
Personal protective equipment .......................................................................................................... 13
Handling nanoparticles in electroplating industry .......................................................................... 15
Work Practices .................................................................................................................................... 15
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Nanosafety
Introduction
Continued evaluation of the potential health risks associated with exposure to nanomaterials is
essential to ensure their safe handling. Nanomaterials are engineered materials having at least one
dimension between 1 and 100 nanometers.
Today in general the most of research laboratories in academic and industrial sector there are present
nanoparticles of the order of 20-1000 nm in size. Most of them are ceramic powders and have the
tendency to form agglomerates (A group of particles held together by relatively weak forces,
including Van der Waals forces, electrostatic forces and surface tension).
Nanomaterials often exhibit unique physical and chemical properties that impart specific
characteristics essential in making engineered materials, but little is known about what effect these
properties may have on human health. Research has shown that the physiochemical characteristics of
particles can influence their effects inbiological systems. These characteristics include: particle size,
shape, surface area, charge, chemical properties, solubility, and degree of agglomeration. Until the
results from research studies can fully elucidate the characteristics of nanoparticles that may
potentially pose a health risk, precautionary measures are warranted.
This document gives an overview of what is known about nanomaterial hazards and measures that can
be taken to minimise workplace exposures. This document assemble available information from
public and private sources, but also possible hazards involving industrial nanoparticle production and
handling, to evaluate the risks for workers, consumers and the environment. Further, the document
summarises the guidelines to be followed for the safe handling of reinforcing nanopowders.
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Nanosafety
Phase composition
- Single-phase solids Crystline, amorphous particles and layers, etc.
- Multi-phase solids Matrix composites, coated particles, etc.
- Multi-phase systems Colloids, aerogels, ferrofluids, etc
Manufacturing process
- Gas phase reaction Flame synthesis, condensation, CVD, etc.
- Liquid phase reaction Sol-gel, precipiation, hydrothermal processing, etc.
- Mechanical procedures Ball miling, plastic deformation, etc.
Nanostructured particles make up a group of elements composed of primary particles smaller than 100
nm, which are combined in aggregate or agglomerate form. The way in which primary particles are
interlinked determines whether they constitute aggregates or agglomerates. Aggregates are formed by
association of primary particlesstrongly linked by molecular-type bonds, whilst agglomerates are
formed by associationof primary particles interlinked by Van der Waals-type lower energy bonds.
Both aggregates and agglomerates can comprise identically or differently composed primary particles,
which can make up either homogenous agglomerates or heterogeneous aggregates.
Due to diffusion, particles will undergo multiple collisions leading to coagulation and agglomeration
and growth in size. The rate at which agglomeration occurs depends primarily on the number of
particles (as concentration) and their mobility. Both of these increase as particle size decrease. Very
small nanoparticles (e.g. 1 nm) coagulate rapidly even at low mass concentrations. Table 2
summarises the half-life nano particles.
The nanomaterials may have different health impacts when compared to fine-sized (bulk) particle-
types of similar chemical composition. In this regard, the knowledge of physical and chemical
properties such as particle size distribution, morphology, particle composition, particle surface area,
particle number concentration, surface chemistry and particle reactivity in solution is particularly
important for the purpose of risk assessment. Table 3 below provides a complete listof these
parameters.
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Nanosafety
Attribute Notes
Nanoscale structures in three forms (nanoparticels, nanotubes/wires, and nano-layers). These
nanoparticles are constituted of several tens or hundreds of atoms or molecules andcan have a variety
of sizes and morphologies (amorphous, crystalline, spherical,needles, etc.). Some kinds of
nanoparticles are already available commercially in theform of a suspension or paste. It may be
necessary to use chemical additives (surfactans, dipersants) to obtain a uniform and stable dispersion
of particles. Withfurther processing steps, nanostructured powders and dispersions can be used to
fabricate coatings, components or devices that may or may not retain the nanostructureof particulate
materials.
Besides that, the range of macromolecular chemistry with molecule sizes in the range of up to a few
tens of nanometers is often referred to as nanotechnology. Molecules of special interest that fall
within the range of nanotechnology are fullerenes or dendrimers (tree-like molecules with defined
cavities), which may find application for example as drug carriers in medicine.
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Nanosafety
Properties of nanomaterials
The physical and chemical properties of nanostructured materials (optical absorption and
fluorescence, melting point, catalytic activity, magnetism, electric and thermal conductivity) typically
differ significantly from the corresponding coarser bulk material.
Potential sources for exposure to nanomaterials for various synthesis methods are given in Table 4.
Process
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Nanosafety
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Nanosafety
A graded approach to controls discussed in this document is suggested. Work with dry nanomaterials
requires a much higher level of control than work with nanomaterials imbedded in solid materials.
From the perspective of laboratory worker safety, the preferred order for handling nanomaterials is:
The following sections provide a summary of best practices and work controls currently being
recommended by the CDC/NIOSH, OSHA, and a number of universities.
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Nanosafety
information is available for your materials or the toxicity information is limited or uncertain, handle
the material as if it is toxic or an unknown. The International Council on Nanomaterials (ICON)
database collects toxicity and environmental information by nanoparticle type and can be a good
resource (see References for link). Another database resource is the National Center for
Biotechnology Informations (NCBI) PubMed database (note that PubMed search results will be
much broader than ICON).
b. Biosafety Cabinets(BsC)
Only Class II type A2, B1 or B2 biosafety cabinets which are exhausted into the building ventilation
system may be used for nanomaterials work. BSCs that recirculate into the room may not be used.
There is recirculation of air inside type A2 and B1 cabinets; care should be taken not to perform
extremely dusty processes in these cabinets as the internal fans of the BSC are not explosion proof.
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Nanosafety
The air in the type B2 cabinet is 100% exhausted and standard amounts of nanomaterials and solvents
may be used in this type of enclosure.
e. Respirators
When adequate ventilation controls are in place (as described above) the use of respirators is generally
not necessary for worker protection. While not definitive, some research has shown that N-series
filtering respirators, when equipped with HEPA cartridges/canisters can efficiently capture nanoscale
range particles. Be aware that respirator use must be in compliance with the OSHA Respiratory
Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134), involving a formal program with medical clearance, training,
and recordkeeping requirements. Check with Environmental Management for details.
a. Gloves
Gloves should be worn when handling nanoparticles and solutions containing nanoparticles. Glove
selection may best be determined by choosing one that has good chemical resistance to the solution
the particles are suspended in. Research has shown that particle penetration of commercially available
latex gloves was significant in the 30 to 80 nanometer particle size range, thus double-gloving
whenever performing tasks involving nanoparticles is advised. Laboratory personnel should
thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water before and immediately upon removal of
examination gloves.
b. Laboratory Coats
Lab coats or disposable coveralls should provide complete coverage of the skin that is not otherwise
protected using other PPE. Research has shown that high-density polyethylene textile (i.e.Tyvek
suit) or non-woven fabrics are more efficient against nanoparticles than cotton or polypropylene.
Cotton fabrics should be avoided. If lab personnel clothing becomes contaminated with nanoparticles,
they should change their clothes immediately and dispose in a segregated container designated for
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Nanosafety
c. Eye Protection
Wear eye protection appropriate to the experimental conditions (for example, safety glasses, goggles,
or face shields). Safety glasses or face shields alone cannot protect against aerosols released with
pressure, so goggles may be necessary for some nanomaterial processes. An eyewash station that
meets ANSI or OSHA requirements is required in labs where nanoparticles are being handled.
5. Exposure Monitoring
Traditional methods of air sampling that measure mass are not appropriate for nanomaterials.
Measurement methods that count nanoparticles or measure surface area are being developed for
nanomaterials. If you feel this is an issue, please contact the Environmental Management office.
7. Transportation of Nanomaterials
a. Within the Lab
Nanomaterials removed from furnaces, reactors, or other enclosures should be put in sealed containers
for transport to other locations. If nanomaterial product from a reactor is bound or adhered to a
substrate, the substrate may be removed and put in a transport container. If the nanomaterials product
is unbound and easily dispersible (such as in CNT synthesis using aerosolized catalyst), the removal
from a reactor should be done with supplementary exhaust ventilation or a glove bag connected to a
HEPA vacuum.
b. Off-Site
Transportation of nanomaterials to offsite locations and other universities or laboratories outside of
MSU may be covered by DOT regulations. Improper packaging and/or transportation could lead to
regulatory action and fines.
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Nanosafety
Collect and contain all waste materials potentially contaminated with nanomaterials. Aqueous waste
should be contained in properly labeled containers. Do not discharge nanomaterial waste to sinks or
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Nanosafety
drains, or place in regular trash containers. Solid waste materials must be kept moist to avoid
aerosolizing, and should be managed as follows:
1) Paper, wipes, PPE and other items with loose contamination are collected in a sealable
plastic bag in a laboratory hood or appropriate work station
2) Wet the inside of the bag slightly prior to adding waste.
3) When full (or at the end of the day/shift), seal the bag (an additional wetting may be
done to ensure that the contents of the bag do not dry out prior to closing).
4) Place the sealed bag into the satellite accumulation container
5) Close the satellite accumulation container
6) Ensure that an appropriately completed label is present on the container.
Use of sealed bags within the within the satellite accumulation bucket will ensure that dry
nanoparticles are not aerosolized when the satellite bucket is opened to add waste.
The metabolism and potential risks associated with nanoparticle use requires that all potential
contaminated carcasses, bedding, and other materials be disposed of in accordance with current
regulations.
Dosing and necropsies shall be conducted within an exhausted hood, preferably one with HEPA
filtration if available. Additionally, the composition of the nanoparticles will vary amongst animal
study (IACUC) protocols, e.g. chemical composition, radiolabelled nanoparticles, nanoparticle
structure, etc., so potential toxicity and safety control measures may also vary with each IACUC
proposal. IACUC proposals involving nanoparticles in animals should include safety controls based
on the University/Departmental Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP).
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Nanosafety
a. Nanoparticle dosing methodology will determine how animals should be housed. If animals are
subjected to an aerosol containing nanoparticles then they should be housed in environmentally
controlled cages. If the animals are dosed with nano-particles via ingestion or injection then they can
be housed in conventional housing.
b. Animal care staff should wear appropriate PPE to prevent exposure to airborne materials or
materials on surfaces from urine, feces etc.
c. Workers who are disposing of contaminated bedding should also wear the appropriate PPE,
including but not be limited to; protective eye wear, disposable gloves, dust mask, closed front
disposable gown, hair cover and shoe covers.
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Nanosafety
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Nanosafety
The following safety procedures and recommendations are added to existing safety procedure for
carrying out electroplating:
o Dry nano-particles should be handled in a fume cupboard, or by using proper local protective
ventilation e.g. to weigh nano-particles.
o Protection against inhalation should be applied when handling dry particles
o Wet particles should not be allowed to dry out outside areas restricted to dry particles.
o Protection against skin contact (gloves and lab coat) should be applied when handling both
wet and dry nanoparticles.
Work Practices
a) Preparation:
Always review the latest Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) available from supplierprior to using
chemicals or materials, to determine necessary hazard controls.
Minimise and clearly identify handling areas in number and size.
b) Ambient conditions:
The ambient temperature must range from 5 - 40C.
Height up to 2000 m above sea level
Pollution level 2 as per IEC 664
The machine should be operated indoors only
The ambient air should not contain any electrically conductive dust particles.
Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperatures up to 31C, linearly decreasing to
50% relative humidity at 40C.
c) Labelling:
Store in a well-sealed container in a cool and dry place.
Label all chemical containers. Use the term nano for nanomaterials or nanopowders in the
containers. Include hazard warning and information on chemical concentration. Hazardous substances
are required to be labelled with the following information:
signal word(s) and/or dangerous goods class label
product name, chemical name, United Nations Number, ingredients
risk phrases and safety phrases
directions for use, first aid procedures and emergency procedures
details of manufacturer or importer
expiry date (where relevant) and reference to Material Safety Data Sheet
d) Personal hygiene:
Never eat, drink, smoke or apply cosmetics where chemicals or nanomaterials are used or stored
since the likelihood of exposure by ingestion is increased.
Wash hands frequently to minimise potential chemical or nanoparticle exposure through ingestion
and dermal contact.
Wear gloves to minimise the likelihood of skin contact with nanomaterials.
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Nanosafety
Remove gloves when leaving the laboratory, so as not to contaminate doorknobs, phones,
computers, etc. Wash hands and forearms after wearing gloves.
Dispose of gloves properly into the designated waste containers.
Do not use mouth suction for pipetting or siphoning.
Transfer nanomaterial samples between workstations (such as hoods, furnaces) in closed, labelled
containers.
e) Cleaning: Proper cleaning can help minimise spills and reduce exposures.
Clean work surfaces regularly using a wet wipe.
Promptly clean up spills. Do not raise dust.
Keep exits and emergency equipment clear.
Managing spills:
All spills involving nanoparticles should be treated like a hazardous material spill and cleaned
up immediately.
The person cleaning up should wear double nitrile gloves and either vacuum up the area with
a HEPA filtered vacuum or wet wipe the area with towels, or combination of the two.
For spills that might result in airborne nanoparticles, proper respiratory protection should be
worn, such as a respirator with FFP3 filters
Do not brush or sweep spilled/dried nanoparticles.
Waste disposal procedures:
Since the toxicology and environmental effect of nanoparticles is still largely unknown, all
nanoparticle waste (solid material and liquids) should be conservatively managed as
hazardous waste.
Nanoparticle waste must be wrapped in sealed polythene bags and labeled hazardous waste.
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