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Experimental Protocol to Investigate Particle Aerosolization of a Product Under Abrasion and Under Environmental Weathering
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Characterization of aerosolized particles from nanoclay-enabled composites during manipulation processes.
Eun Gyung Lee1, Lorenzo Cena2, Jiwoon Kwon3
1National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Health Effects Laboratory Division (HELD), 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA.
Environmental Science. Nano
|May 19, 2023
Summary
Sanding nanoclay composites releases airborne particles, with higher concentrations linked to specific nanoclay types and loadings. Particle release depends on nanoclay dispersion and sandpaper grit, impacting potential health effects.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Health
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Nanoclay composites are increasingly used, but the release of airborne nanoclay particles during processing is not well understood.
- Potential exposure to these airborne particles during manufacturing, use, and disposal poses risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize airborne particles released during the sanding of nanoclay-enabled thermoplastic composites.
- To investigate the influence of nanoclay type, loading, and sandpaper grit on particle release.
Main Methods:
- Two nanoclay types (Cloisite® 25A, 93A) were dispersed in polypropylene at varying percentages (0%, 1%, 4%).
- Composites were sanded using zirconium aluminum oxide and silicon carbide sandpapers.
- Real-time and offline particle analyses were conducted.
Main Results:
- Sanding with zirconium aluminum oxide sandpaper generally released more particles than silicon carbide.
- Composites with 1% 25A, 1% 93A, and 4% 93A showed significantly higher particle concentrations compared to virgin polypropylene.
- The 4% 25A composite showed comparable particle release to virgin polypropylene.
Conclusions:
- Nanoclay loading and dispersion significantly affect particle release during sanding.
- The type of sandpaper also influences the quantity and characteristics of airborne particles.
- Findings highlight potential risks associated with airborne nanoclay particles from composite sanding.
