Exposure of Nanoparticles in Indoor Air and on Interior Surfaces – A Study of Detection Techniques

Abstract

Exposure of Nanoparticles in Indoor Air and on Interior Surfaces – A Study of Detection Techniques M. Wasmutha, C.V. Sumowskia, B. Neuwegera, M. Bäumerb, M. Köhlera, N. Weisa aBremer Umweltinstitut GmbH and bUniversität Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany The use of nanoparticles in everyday products is steadily increasing [1]. At the same time, little is known about the exposure of nanoparticles into the environment and especially into indoor air [2]. In addition, measurement techniques currently used for common indoor air pollutants are not applicable for nanoparticle detection. Therefore, in the present study, detection techniques were studied regarding their applicability to determine potential nanoparticle contaminations in indoor air and on interior surfaces. To study possible detection techniques, an exposure scenario was simulated within a standardized sample chamber. A commercially available, well characterized plant strenghtener containing silver nanoparticles was applied within the sample chamber and the recovery rates for the overall silver content were determined by wipe and material samples using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The applicability of contact samples and air sampling to detect potential contamination on nano scale was addressed by electron microscopy techniques. The results show a strong dependence of silver-content recovery-rates on the surface materials applied within the sample chamber. Nevertheless, in all test cases silver nanoparticles could be identified on contact and collected air samples. Overall, the applicability of the studied detection techniques for a qualitative assessment of nanoparticle contamination could be shown. For a better understanding of exposure scenarios for nanoparticles, further studies focusing on quantitative approaches and a broad diversity of applications will be crucial. [1] B. Nowak et al.; Environmental Pollution 150, 5 (2007) [2] M.E. Quadros et al.; Environmental Science and Technology 45, 10713 (2011)