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Li M, Zhao X, Shi H, Zhang Q, Wang Z, Lv Q. Non-targeted identification and risk assessment of unknown substances in disposable plastic tableware by GC-Orbitrap HRMS. Food Chem 2024; 454:139837. [PMID: 38820634 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Disposable plastic tableware was widely used and it was particularly important to identify potential hazardous substances in it and evaluate the risk to humans health. In this study, 85 substances were identified in 60 samples (22 bowls, 20 sporks, and 18 straws) by methanol extraction and non-targeted analysis using GC-Orbitrap HRMS. Subsequently, 14 high-risk substances were further screened and their migration in the samples was measured in three food simulants. Finally, based on the proposed safety limit assessment scheme for EU- authorized and unauthorized substances, the risk assessment of exposure to high-risk substances in disposable plastic tableware was performed for three age groups. The results showed that the dibutyl phthalate and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in some samples exceeded the safety limit value. Overall, the risk of bowls was lower than spock and straws, and the potential exposure risk for young children was higher than that of adults and older children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiping Li
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China.
| | - Xiying Zhao
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China; Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Haoyang Shi
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China; Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Zhijuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Qing Lv
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China.
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2
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Shao Y, Wang Z, Shi H, Lv Q, Li H, Zhang Q. Migration characteristics and risk assessment of chemical hazardous substances in infant teether toys. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1730:465085. [PMID: 38879978 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.465085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Teether is a special toy used for infants oral contact. In this paper, a residual and migration detection method was developed using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for 20 screened hazardous substances in teethers. Fifteen substances were detected in 59 samples, with residual amounts and detection rates ranging from 0.01 mg⋅kg-1 to 106.15 mg⋅kg-1 and from 3.39 % to 84.7 % respectively. Then, 12 substances were detected in simulated saliva at migration levels ranging from 0.0143 mg⋅kg-1 to 20.03 mg⋅kg-1, with detection rates ranging from 1.69 % to 76.3 %. Statistically, the average migration rate of each substance ranged from 8.18 % to 53.28 % depending on the properties of the substance and the sample. The exposure risk of infants to teethers was evaluated separately for two age groups. The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) values for the analytes were higher in the 3-12-month age group than in the 12-24-month age group. The HQ values of triphenylphosphine oxide, benzocaine, and N-methylformanilide were relatively high, with averages of 1.2 × 10-2, 2.5 × 10-3, and 1.6 × 10-3, respectively, and the max HI of the 12 substances was 0.04. The HI and HQ values of the analytes were all below 1, indicating that the non-carcinogenic risks of analytes in teethers are at an acceptable level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Shao
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Zhijuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Haoyang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Qing Lv
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China.
| | - Hongyan Li
- Zhejiang Institute of Product Quality and Safety Science, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China.
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3
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Kisielinski K, Hockertz S, Hirsch O, Korupp S, Klosterhalfen B, Schnepf A, Dyker G. Wearing face masks as a potential source for inhalation and oral uptake of inanimate toxins - A scoping review. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 275:115858. [PMID: 38537476 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND From 2020 to 2023 many people around the world were forced to wear masks for large proportions of the day based on mandates and laws. We aimed to study the potential of face masks for the content and release of inanimate toxins. METHODS A scoping review of 1003 studies was performed (database search in PubMed/MEDLINE, qualitative and quantitative evaluation). RESULTS 24 studies were included (experimental time 17 min to 15 days) evaluating content and/or release in 631 masks (273 surgical, 228 textile and 130 N95 masks). Most studies (63%) showed alarming results with high micro- and nanoplastics (MPs and NPs) release and exceedances could also be evidenced for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), xylene, acrolein, per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), phthalates (including di(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate, DEHP) and for Pb, Cd, Co, Cu, Sb and TiO2. DISCUSSION Of course, masks filter larger dirt and plastic particles and fibers from the air we breathe and have specific indications, but according to our data they also carry risks. Depending on the application, a risk-benefit analysis is necessary. CONCLUSION Undoubtedly, mask mandates during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have been generating an additional source of potentially harmful exposition to toxins with health threatening and carcinogenic properties at population level with almost zero distance to the airways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Kisielinski
- Social Medicine, Emergency Medicine and Clinical Medicine (Surgery), Private Practice, 40212 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Stefan Hockertz
- Toxicology, Pharmacology, Immunology, tpi consult AG, Haldenstr. 1, CH 6340 Baar, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Hirsch
- Department of Psychology, FOM University of Applied Sciences, 57078 Siegen, Germany
| | - Stephan Korupp
- Surgeon, Emergency Medicine, Private Practice, 52070 Aachen, Germany
| | - Bernd Klosterhalfen
- Institute of Pathology, Dueren Hospital, Roonstrasse 30, 52351 Dueren, Germany
| | - Andreas Schnepf
- Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 18, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gerald Dyker
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
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4
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Tan Z, Deng H, Ou H, Liao Z, Wu X, Liu R, Ou H. Microplastics and volatile organic compounds released from face masks after disinfection: Layers and materials differences. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170286. [PMID: 38280606 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Effective disinfection methods are critical for ensuring the reusability of masks, yet these methods may inadvertently introduce health concerns associated with microplastics (MPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This study investigated the impact of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) and sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) bleaching on mask filter layers composed of four distinct materials. Our results revealed that UVGI induced more pronounced damage compared to bleaching, leading to the significant release of both MPs and VOCs. After UVGI treatment at conventional disinfection doses, meltblown (MB) fabrics released MPs reaching 864 ± 182 μg/g (92 ± 19 particles/g). For all filter layers, the quantity of released MPs followed the order: MB > HDPE>PU ≈ NW. These MPs were identified as degraded debris from the mask filter layers. The specific VOCs generated varied depending on the material composition. Non-woven (NW) and MB fabrics, both comprised of polypropylene, predominantly produced various branched aliphatic hydrocarbons and their derivative oxides. The cotton-like fabric, composed of high-density polyethylene, primarily emitted different linear aliphatic hydrocarbons and oxygenates. In contrast, the polyurethane filter layer of reusable masks released aromatic compounds, nitrogenous compounds, and their oxidation products. The formation of VOCs was primarily attributed to bond breakage and oxidative damage to the filter structure resulting from the disinfection process. In summary, as UVGI induced higher yields of MPs and VOCs compared to bleaching, the latter would be a safer option for mask disinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyi Tan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Haiyang Deng
- CECEP Construction Engineering Design Institute Limited Company, Chengdu 610052, China
| | - Huali Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Zhianqi Liao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Xinni Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Ruijuan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Huase Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China.
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5
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Zhao X, Liu Y, Li M, Li H, Zhang Q, Lv Q. Differential analysis of volatiles in five types of mosquito-repellent products by chemometrics combined with headspace GC-Orbitrap HRMS nontargeted detection. Talanta 2024; 269:125443. [PMID: 38048684 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.125443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports a method for the differential analysis of volatile chemical components in five novel types of mosquito-repellent products based on chemometrics combined with headspace gas chromatography-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (HS-GC-Orbitrap HRMS) nontargeted screening. A total of 358 unknown substances were detected in 30 samples under specific headspace conditions. Through principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis, 36 significantly different substances with variable importance in the projection values greater than 1 were further screened, and these substances were accurately identified by GC-Orbitrap HRMS. Most substances were found for the first time in mosquito-repellent products. The clustered heat map, Venn diagram and peak area histogram showed that the mosquito-repellent products had similar volatile composition, and the volatile species and content of different types of mosquito-repellent products significantly varied. Substances, such as eucalyptol, d-limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene, dl-menthol and methyl salicylate, may be the main sources of odour in mosquito-repellent products. This work explored the characteristic volatile components in mosquito-repellent products and comparatively analysed the chemical composition of different types of products. It can be generalised to consumer products as a case study and has positive implications for promoting product quality and safety and improving production processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiying Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, 100176, China; College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yahui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Meiping Li
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi Province, China.
| | - Hongyan Li
- Zhejiang Institute of Product Quality and Safety Science, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Qing Lv
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, 100176, China.
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Liu Y, Jin R, Lv Q, Zhang Q, Zheng M. Screening and Evaluation of Children's Sensitively Toxic Chemicals in New Mosquito Repellent Products Based on a Nationwide Investigation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:2704-2715. [PMID: 38286788 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
New mosquito repellent products (NMRPs) are emerging popular repellents among children. There are increasing reports on children's sensitization reactions caused by NMRPs, while regulations on their productions, sales, or usage are still lacking. One of the reasons could be the missing comprehensive risk assessment. We first conducted a nationwide investigation on children's NMRP usage preferences. Then, we high-throughput screened volatile or semivolatile organic chemicals (VOCs/SVOCs) in five representative NMRPs by the headspace gas chromatography-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry analytical method. After that, toxic compounds were recognized based on the toxicity forecaster (ToxCast) database. A total of 277 VOCs/SVOCs were recognized, and 70 of them were identified as toxic compounds. In a combination of concentrations, toxicities, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion characteristics in the body, 28 chemicals were finally proposed as priority-controlled compounds in NMRPs. Exposure risks of recognized toxic chemicals through NMRPs by inhalation and dermal intake for children across the country were also assessed. Average daily intakes were in the range of 0.20-7.31 mg/kg/day for children in different provinces, and the children in southeastern coastal provinces were found to face higher exposure risks. By controlling the high-priority chemicals, the risks were expected to be reduced by about 46.8% on average. Results of this study are therefore believed to evaluate exposure risks, encourage safe production, and promote reasonable management of NMRPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Rong Jin
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Qing Lv
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Consumer Product Quality Safety Inspection and Risk Assessment for State Market Regulation, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China
| | - Minghui Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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7
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Qi Z, Zhang Z, Jin R, Zhang L, Zheng M, Li J, Wu Y, Li C, Lin B, Liu Y, Liu G. Target Analysis of Polychlorinated Naphthalenes and Nontarget Screening of Organic Chemicals in Bovine Milk, Infant Formula, and Adult Milk Powder by High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:773-782. [PMID: 38109498 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c07579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Infant formula is intended as an effective substitute for breast milk but is the main source of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) to nonbreastfed infants. We performed target and nontarget analyses to determine PCNs and identify other organic contaminants in infant formula. The mean PCN concentrations in infant formula, milk powder, and bovine milk were 106.1, 88.8, and 78.2 μg kg-1 of dry weight, respectively. The PCN congener profiles indicated that thermal processes and raw materials were probably the main sources of PCNs in infant formula. A health risk assessment indicated that PCNs in infant formula do not pose health risks to infants. Using gas chromatography-Orbitrap mass spectrometry, 352, 372, and 161 organic chemicals were identified in the infant formula, milk powder, and bovine milk samples, respectively. Phthalate esters were detected in all four plastic-packed milk powder samples. The results indicated milk becomes more contaminated with organic chemicals during manufacturing, processing, and packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyuan Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zherui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Rong Jin
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing 100021, P. R. China
| | - Minghui Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jingguang Li
- China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing 100021, P. R. China
| | - Yongning Wu
- China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing 100021, P. R. China
| | - Cheng Li
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
| | - Bingcheng Lin
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yahui Liu
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Guorui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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8
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Li XP, Huang GY, Qiu SQ, Lei DQ, Wang CS, Xie L, Ying GG. Identification of Additives in Disposable Face Masks and Evaluation of Their Toxicity Using Marine Medaka ( Oryzias melastigma). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:121-131. [PMID: 38118121 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in huge amounts of face masks worldwide. However, there is a lack of awareness on the additives and their potential risk to aquatic ecosystems of face masks. To address this issue, the additives and their toxicity in 13 face masks (e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, and polylactic acid) were determined using nontarget analysis and bioassays. A total of 826 organic additives including intermediates (14.8%), surfactants (9.3%), plasticizers (8.2%), and antioxidants (6.1%) were tentatively identified, with 213 compounds being assigned confidence levels of 1 and 2. Interestingly, polylactic acid masks contained more additives than most polypropylene or polyethylene masks. Among these additives, the concentration of tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate in masks was 9.4-978.2 ng/g with a 100% detection frequency. Furthermore, 13 metals such as zinc (up to 202.0 μg/g), copper (32.5 μg/g), and chromium (up to 5.7 μg/g) were detected in the face masks. The methanol extracts of the masks showed the developmental toxicity, swimming behavior, and/or endocrine disruption in embryos/larvae of Oryzias melastigma. The findings demonstrate that face masks contain various toxic additives to marine medaka, which deserves close attention to pollution by face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Pei Li
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guo-Yong Huang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shu-Qing Qiu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Dong-Qiao Lei
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chen-Si Wang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lingtian Xie
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
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9
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Huang Q, Pan L, Luo G, Jiang R, Ouyang G, Ye Y, Cai J, Guo P. Exploring the release of hazardous volatile organic compounds from face masks and their potential health risk. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122042. [PMID: 37328128 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Hazardous chemicals released from the petroleum-derived face mask can be inhaled by wearers and cause adverse health effects. Here, we first used headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with GC-MS to comprehensively analyze the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from 26 types of face masks. The results showed that total concentrations and peak numbers ranged from 3.28 to 197 μg/mask and 81 to 162, respectively, for different types of mask. Also, light exposure could affect the chemical composition of VOCs, particularly increasing the concentrations of aldehydes, ketones, organic acids and esters. Of these detected VOCs, 142 substances were matched to a reported database of chemicals associated with plastic packaging; 30 substances were identified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as potential carcinogenic to humans; 6 substances were classified in the European Union as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic, or very persistent, very bioaccumulative substance. Reactive carbonyls were ubiquitous in masks, especially after exposure to light. The potential risk of VOCs released from the face masks were then accessed by assuming the extreme scenario that all the VOC residues were released into the breathing air within 3 h. The result showed that the average total concentration of VOCs (17 μg/m3) was below the criterion for hygienic air, but seven substances, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, benzene, isophorone, heptanal, naphthalene, benzyl chloride, and 1,2-dichloropropane exceeded the non-cancer health guidelines for lifetime exposure. This finding suggested that specific regulations should be adopted to improve the chemical safety of face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, China
| | - Li Pan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, China
| | - Gan Luo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, China
| | - Ruifen Jiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences (China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 510070, China.
| | - Gangfeng Ouyang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences (China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 510070, China; KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Yuanjian Ye
- Guangzhou Quality Supervision and Testing Institute, Guangzhou, 511400, China
| | - Jin'an Cai
- Guangzhou Quality Supervision and Testing Institute, Guangzhou, 511400, China
| | - Pengran Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences (China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 510070, China
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10
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Beauchamp JD, Mayhew CA. Revisiting the rationale of mandatory masking. J Breath Res 2023; 17:042001. [PMID: 37548323 DOI: 10.1088/1752-7163/acdf12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
In this perspective, we review the evidence for the efficacy of face masks to reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses, specifically severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and consider the value of mandating universal mask wearing against the widespread negative impacts that have been associated with such measures. Before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it was considered that there was little to no benefit in healthy people wearing masks as prophylaxis against becoming infected or as unwitting vectors of viral transmission. This accepted policy was hastily reversed early on in the pandemic, when districts and countries throughout the world imposed stringent masking mandates. Now, more than three years since the start of the pandemic, the amassed studies that have investigated the use of masks to reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (or other pathogens) have led to conclusions that are largely inconsistent and contradictory. There is no statistically significant or unambiguous scientific evidence to justify mandatory masking for general, healthy populations with the intention of lessening the viral spread. Even if mask wearing could potentially reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in individual cases, this needs to be balanced against the physical, psychological and social harms associated with forced mask wearing, not to mention the negative impact of innumerable disposed masks entering our fragile environment. Given the lack of unequivocal scientific proof that masks have any effect on reducing transmission, together with the evident harms to people and the environment through the use of masks, it is our opinion that the mandatory use of face masks in the general population is unjustifiable and must be abandoned in future pandemic countermeasures policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Beauchamp
- Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV, Giggenhauser Str. 35, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Chris A Mayhew
- Institute for Breath Research, Leopold-Franzens-Universität, Innsbruck, Innrain 66, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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Ryu H, Kim YH. Measuring the quantity of harmful volatile organic compounds inhaled through masks. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 256:114915. [PMID: 37079939 PMCID: PMC10112860 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
An increase in the concentration of environmental particulate matter and the spread of the COVID-19 virus have dramatically increased our time spent wearing masks. If harmful chemicals are released from these masks, there may be harmful effects on human health. In this study, the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from some commonly used masks was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively under diverse conditions (including different mask material types, time between opening the product and wearing, and mask temperature). In KF94 masks, 1-methoxy-2-propanol (221 ± 356 µg m-3), N,N-dimethylacetamide (601 ± 450 µg m-3), n-hexane (268 ± 349 µg m-3), and 2-butanone (160 ± 244 µg m-3) were detected at concentrations 22.9-147 times higher than those found in masks made from other materials, such as cotton and other functional fabrics. In addition, in KF94 masks, the total VOC (TVOC) released amounted to 3730 ± 1331 µg m-3, about 14 times more than that released by the cotton masks (267.5 ± 51.6 µg m-3). In some KF94 masks, TVOC concentration reached over 4000 µg m-3, posing a risk to human health (based on indoor air quality guidelines established by the German Environment Agency). Notably, 30 min after KF94 masks were removed from their packaging, TVOC concentrations decreased by about 80% from their initial levels to 724 ± 5.86 µg m-3; furthermore, 6 h after removal, TVOC concentrations were found to be less than 200 µg m-3. When the temperature of the KF94 masks was raised to 40 oC, TVOC concentrations increased by 119-299%. Since the types and concentrations of VOCs that will be inhaled by mask wearers vary depending on the mask use conditions, it is necessary to comply with safe mask wearing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajoo Ryu
- Department of Environment and Energy, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Hyun Kim
- Department of Environment and Energy, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 54896, Republic of Korea; School of Civil, Environmental, Resources and Energy Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 54896, Republic of Korea; Soil Environment Research Center, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo 54896, Republic of Korea.
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Hu B. Recent Advances in Facemask Devices for In Vivo Sampling of Human Exhaled Breath Aerosols and Inhalable Environmental Exposures. Trends Analyt Chem 2022; 151:116600. [PMID: 35310778 PMCID: PMC8917876 DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2022.116600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the unprecedented use of facemasks has been requiring for wearing in daily life. By wearing facemask, human exhaled breath aerosols and inhaled environmental exposures can be efficiently filtered and thus various filtration residues can be deposited in facemask. Therefore, facemask could be a simple, wearable, in vivo, onsite and noninvasive sampler for collecting exhaled and inhalable compositions, and gain new insights into human health and environmental exposure. In this review, the recent advances in developments and applications of in vivo facemask sampling of human exhaled bacteria, viruses, proteins, and metabolites, and inhalable facemask contaminants and air pollutants, are reviewed. New features of facemask sampling are highlighted. The perspectives and challenges on further development and potential applications of facemask devices are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Hu
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry and Atmospheric Environment, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for On-line Source Apportionment System of Air Pollution, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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