Understanding the Human Health Impacts of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials Under Occupational Exposure Scenarios

This project aims to first investigate the public awareness and understanding of the benefits and (health) risks of nanomaterials, whilst identifying the human exposure levels at typical engineered nanomaterials manufacturing industries. Next, the potential adverse biological impacts of carbon-based nanomaterials in vitro will be assessed in immune-relevant cell models, before, subsequently, at equivalent in vitro concentrations of occupational exposure scenarios. A specifically designed questionnaire indicated that individuals with a higher educational background had a better understanding of ‘nano’, however religious individuals generally had lower knowledge of the area. Air monitoring at typical carbon-based nanomaterials manufacturing facilities was carried out with DiSCmini and P-Trak particle counters, and a Flow air quality monitor over 12 months. Average particle concentrations in the manufacturing areas were