Title: Understanding the role of incidental nanoparticle properties as determinants of industrial workplace exposures
The predoctoral researcher Verónica Moreno, from the EGAR group, will defend her thesis on 17th July at 10:00h at Universitat de Barcelona (Aula Magna, Facultat de Biologia)
Directors: Mar Viana and Marcel Macarulla
Thesis Committee: Jordi Poblet, Ana Sofia Godinho and Julio Bastos
Abstract:
Nanoparticles (NPs) differ from other pollutants by their dynamic transformations and dominance in particle number despite low mass. They penetrate the respiratory system, causing inflammation and toxicity risks. Incidental nanoparticles (INPs), unintentionally released in industries, are often overlooked in occupational exposure.
This Thesis studies INPs in the ceramic sector by examining emission sources, worker exposure including physicochemical and toxicological characterisation, and using Reduced Order Models (ROMs) to optimise industrial ventilation. Three processes were analysed: tile cutting, firing, and thermal spraying. Results show INP properties and toxicity depend on formation mechanisms. In situ sampling provided essential aerosol data. ROMs reduced INP exposure by 73%, energy use by 15%, and CO₂ emissions by 12%.
Current regulations inadequately address NP risks, emphasising the need for international exposure limits, detailed aerosol characterisation, and ROMs to improve occupational safety and efficiency.
