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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
10:11
Whole-Body Nanoparticle Aerosol Inhalation Exposures
Published on: May 7, 2013
Ambient air sampling during quantum-dot spray deposition
John T Jankovic1, Scott M Hollenbeck, Tracy L Zontek
1Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, UT Battelle, LLC, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA. jankovicjt@hotmail.com
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health
|January 13, 2011
Summary
Spray coating with quantum dots (QDs) can release nanoparticles into the air. Implementing a ventilation delay before opening enclosures effectively prevents nanoparticle release, ensuring safer air quality.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Industrial Hygiene
Background:
- Spray coating processes, particularly with nanomaterials like quantum dots (QDs), pose potential risks of airborne particle release.
- Effective industrial hygiene strategies are crucial for managing exposure risks associated with nanosize particle emissions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess ambient air nanoparticle emissions during spot spray coating using a Sono-Tek ExactaCoat Benchtop system.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of enclosure ventilation controls in mitigating the release of aerosolized quantum dots.
Main Methods:
- Ambient air sampling was conducted during spray coating of cadmium selenide and gold quantum dots (QDs).
- Particle size and concentration were monitored using a scanning mobility particle sizer and condensation particle counters.
- Aerosol characterization involved atomic force microscopy, electron microscopy, and chemical analysis.
Main Results:
- Opening the enclosure early led to a significant increase in ambient air nanoparticle concentrations.
- Implementing a ventilation delay of 10 air changes (over 99.99% concentration reduction) before door opening effectively prevented measurable aerosol particle release.
- Median spray droplet size ranged from 20 to 60 micrometers.
Conclusions:
- Spray coating with quantum dots generates nanosize particles that can become airborne.
- A timed ventilation strategy within enclosures is a highly effective control measure for preventing the release of nanoparticles during spray coating operations.
- This approach significantly enhances industrial hygiene and safety when working with nanomaterials.
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