1
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Guo J, Chen Z, Chen X, Xu Z, Ruan J. Organophosphate flame retardants in air from formal e-waste recycling workshops in China: Size-distribution, gas-particle partitioning and exposure assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 359:124593. [PMID: 39043313 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124593] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
In order to understand the organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) pollution and evaluate the inhalation exposure risk in formal e-waste recycling facilities, the air concentrations, particle size distribution and gas-particle partitioning of OPFRs in four typical workshops were investigated. The total Σ15OPFR concentrations inside workshops were in the range of 64.7-682 ng/m3, with 5.80-23.4 ng/m3 in gas phase and 58.8-658 ng/m3 in particle phase. Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) and tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP) were main analogs, both of which contributed to 49.0-85.7% of total OPFRs. In the waste printed circuit boards thermal treatment workshop, the OPFRs concentration was the highest, and particle-bound OPFRs mainly distributed in 0.7-1.1 μm particles. The proportions of TPHP in different size particles increased as the decrease of particle size, while TCIPP presented an opposite trend. The gas-particle partitioning of OPFR analogs was dominated by absorption process, and did not reach equilibrium state due to continuous emission of OPFRs from the recycling activities. The deposition fluxes of OPFRs in respiratory tract were 65.7-639 ng/h, and the estimated daily intake doses of OPFRs were 8.52-76.9 ng/(kg·day) in four workshops. Inhalation exposure was an important exposure pathway for e-waste recycling workers, and deposition fluxes of size-segregated OPFRs were mainly in head airways region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Guo
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 516 Jungong Road, Shanghai, 200093, PR China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China.
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Xuan Chen
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 516 Jungong Road, Shanghai, 200093, PR China
| | - Zhenming Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jujun Ruan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, 135 West Xingang Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
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2
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Agarwal V, Meier B, Schreiner C, Figi R, Tao Y, Wang J. Airborne antibiotic and metal resistance genes - A neglected potential risk at e-waste recycling facilities. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:170991. [PMID: 38365028 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170991] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Heavy metal-rich environments can promote the selection of metal-resistance genes (MRGs) in bacteria, often leading to the simultaneous selection of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) through a process known as co-selection. To comprehensively evaluate the biological pollutants at electronic-waste (e-waste) recycling facilities, air, soil, and river samples were collected at four distinct Swiss e-waste recycling facilities and analyzed for ARGs, MRGs, mobile genetic elements (MGEs), endotoxins, and bacterial species, with correlations drawn to heavy metal occurrence. To our knowledge, the present work marks the first attempt to quantify these bio-pollutants in the air of e-waste recycling facilities, that might pose a significant health risk to workers. Although ARG and MRG's profiles varied among the different sample types, intl1 consistently exhibited high relative abundance rates, identifying it as the predominant MGE across all sample types and facilities. These findings underscore its pivol role in driving diverse bacterial adaptations to extreme heavy metal exposure by selection and dissemination of ARGs and MRGs. All air samples exhibited consistent profiles of ARGs and MRGs, with blaTEM emerging as the predominant ARG, alongside pbrT and nccA as the most prevalent MRGs. However, one facility, engaged in batteries recycling and characterized by exceptionally high concentrations of heavy metals, showcased a more diverse resistance gene profile, suggesting that bacteria in this environment required more complex resistance mechanisms to cope with extreme metal exposure. Furthermore, this study unveiled a strong association between gram-negative bacteria and ARGs and less with MRGs. Overall, this research emphasizes the critical importance of studying biological pollutants in the air of e-waste recycling facilities to inform robust safety measures and mitigate the risk of resistance gene dissemination among workers. These findings establish a solid foundation for further investigations into the complex interplay among heavy metal exposure, bacterial adaptation, and resistance patterns in such distinctive ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Agarwal
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8983, Switzerland; Laboratory for Advanced Analytical Technologies, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
| | - B Meier
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8983, Switzerland
| | - C Schreiner
- Laboratory for Advanced Analytical Technologies, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
| | - R Figi
- Laboratory for Advanced Analytical Technologies, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
| | - Y Tao
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8983, Switzerland; Laboratory for Advanced Analytical Technologies, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
| | - J Wang
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8983, Switzerland; Laboratory for Advanced Analytical Technologies, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland.
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3
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Wang R, Zhan L, Xu Z, Wang R, Wang J. A green strategy for upcycling utilization of core parts from end-of-life vehicles (ELVs): Pollution source analysis, technology flowchart, technology upgrade. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169609. [PMID: 38157917 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The disposal of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) is an issue of great concern to the society, because of its huge amount, resource value and environmental pollution. A wide variety of pollutants generate and release during the recycling process. However, previous studies are piecemeal and segmentary, the correlation between treatment flowchart and pollution is unknown, and pollution source analysis in ELV recycling and core parts (engine, gear box, etc.) remanufacturing bases is still a challenge. In this study, the aim is to propose a green strategy for upcycling utilization of ELV part based on pollution source analysis, technology flowchart, and technology upgrade. We synthetically analyzed current typical ELV dismantling and core part remanufacturing processes of ELVs. A total of 36 volatile organic compound (VOC) species and 7 heavy metals were found in dismantling process, and 61 VOC species were detected in remanufacturing process. Based on statistical analysis and treatment process characteristics, 18 pollution fingerprints were constructed. At last, an intelligent dismantling and upcycle utilization line for ELVs has been developed to improve production efficiency and reduce pollution release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, China
| | - Lu Zhan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, China.
| | - Zhenming Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, China
| | - Ruixue Wang
- Research Center of Resource Recycling Science and Engineering, Shanghai Polytechnic University, Shanghai 201209, China
| | - Jianbo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Resource Recycle, Ministry of Education, School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, 621010, China
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4
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Li J, Jiang H, Qin J, Qin Y, Zhou X, Shi S, Shu Z, Gao Y, Tan J. Unexpectedly high levels and health risks of atmospheric polychlorinated biphenyls in modern mechanical dismantling of obsolete electrical equipment: Investigations in a large integrated e-waste dismantling industrial estate. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 182:108333. [PMID: 37995389 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108333] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Large industrial estates for electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) mechanical dismantling and recycling are gradually replacing outmoded small factories and intensive domestic workshops for e-waste manual and chemical dismantling. However, the air pollution and health risks of persistent organic pollutants during the modern mechanical processing of e-waste, especially obsolete electrical equipment, still remain unclear. Here, unexpectedly high levels (409.3 ng/m3) and health risks of airborne polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were found during the mechanical processing of obsolete electric equipment or parts in a large integrated dismantling industrial estate, which is comparable to or a dozen times higher than those reported during chemical processing. In contrast, the levels (936.0 pg/m3) and health risks of particulate polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were all lower than those of previous studies. PCB emissions (44.9-3300.5 ng/m3) varied significantly across six mechanical dismantling places specifically treating waste motors, electrical appliances, hardware, transformers, and metals, respectively. The high PCB content and mass processing number of obsolete electrical equipment probably result in the highest PCB emissions from the mechanical dismantling of obsolete motors, followed by waste electrical appliances and metals. The PCB non-cancer and cancer risks associated with inhalation and dermal exposure in different mechanical dismantling places were all above the given potential risk limits. In particular, the health risks of dismantling obsolete motor exceeded the definite risk levels. Little difference in PCB emissions and health risks between working and non-working time suggested the importance of PCB volatilization from most e-waste. Such high PCB emissions and health risks of PCBs undoubtedly posed a severe threat to frontline workers, but fortunately, they decreased significantly with the increasing distance from the industrial estate. We highlight that PCB emissions and associated health risks from obsolete electrical equipment with high PCB content during mechanical dismantling activities should be of great concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingnan Li
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haoyu Jiang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China.
| | - Juanjuan Qin
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Qin
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xueming Zhou
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shaoxuan Shi
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhao Shu
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuwei Gao
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jihua Tan
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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5
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Odnevall I, Brookman-Amissah M, Stábile F, Ekvall MT, Herting G, Bermeo Vargas M, Messing ME, Sturve J, Hansson LA, Isaxon C, Rissler J. Characterization and Toxic Potency of Airborne Particles Formed upon Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment Waste Recycling: A Case Study. ACS ENVIRONMENTAL AU 2023; 3:370-382. [PMID: 38028743 PMCID: PMC10655593 DOI: 10.1021/acsenvironau.3c00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Manual dismantling, shredding, and mechanical grinding of waste from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) at recycling facilities inevitably lead to the accidental formation and release of both coarse and fine particle aerosols, primarily into the ambient air. Since diffuse emissions to air of such WEEE particles are not regulated, their dispersion from the recycling plants into the adjacent environment is possible. The aim of this interdisciplinary project was to collect and characterize airborne WEEE particles smaller than 1 μm generated at a Nordic open waste recycling facility from a particle concentration, shape, and bulk and surface composition perspective. Since dispersed airborne particles eventually may reach rivers, lakes, and possibly oceans, the aim was also to assess whether such particles may pose any adverse effects on aquatic organisms. The results show that WEEE particles only exerted a weak tendency toward cytotoxic effects on fish gill cell lines, although the exposure resulted in ROS formation that may induce adverse effects. On the contrary, the WEEE particles were toxic toward the crustacean zooplankter Daphnia magna, showing strong effects on survival of the animals in a concentration-dependent way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger Odnevall
- Department
of Chemistry, Division of Surface and Corrosion Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
- AIMES−Center
for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences
at Karolinska Institute and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department
of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianne Brookman-Amissah
- Department
of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Franca Stábile
- Department
of Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Lund University, SE-223 62 Lund, Sweden
| | - Mikael T. Ekvall
- Department
of Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Lund University, SE-223 62 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Gunilla Herting
- Department
of Chemistry, Division of Surface and Corrosion Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie Bermeo Vargas
- Solid
State Physics, Lund University, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria E. Messing
- Solid
State Physics, Lund University, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Joachim Sturve
- Department
of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lars-Anders Hansson
- Department
of Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Lund University, SE-223 62 Lund, Sweden
| | - Christina Isaxon
- Ergonomics
and Aerosol Technology, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jenny Rissler
- Ergonomics
and Aerosol Technology, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
- Bioeconomy
and Health, RISE Research Institutes of
Sweden, SE-223 70 Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
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6
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Pomata D, Di Filippo P, Riccardi C, Buiarelli F, Marini F, Romani L, Lucarelli F, Pazzi G, Galarini R, Simonetti G. Concentrations and co-occurrence of 101 emerging and legacy organic pollutants in the ultrafine, fine and coarse fractions of airborne particulates associated with treatment of waste from electrical and electronic equipment. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 338:139443. [PMID: 37453523 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139443] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to airborne particles can increase the development of morbidity, also because of the chemical composition of particulate matter (PM). In workplace, where manual and mechanical disassembly of electric and electronic equipment (EEE) take place, there are evident risks of respiratory exposure to a great number of different toxic organic compounds present in the electrical and plastic materials of which the equipment is made. Airborne particles are numerous, cover a wide range of sizes and are rich in toxic organic compounds. In the present work, a sampling program was conducted and ultrafine, fine and coarse airborne particles were collected in three EEE waste treatment plants. Afterwards, the extraction and analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), their nitro and oxygenated derivatives (nitroPAHs, oxyPAHs), organophosphorus compounds (OPEs), Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs), and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFASs) was performed. The percentage ratio of the mass of organic compounds and the mass of the ultrafine fraction of PM (PM0.1) was higher than those of the fine and coarse fractions. Even with low concentrations, the co-occurrence of numerous potentially toxic compounds capable of easily reaching other organs passing by the lung vasculature, through the lymph makes the working environment unhealthy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Pomata
- DIT, Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Carmela Riccardi
- DIT, Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL), 00143, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Federico Marini
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Romani
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Lucarelli
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and INFN, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Pazzi
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and INFN, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Galarini
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giulia Simonetti
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
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7
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Li N, Wang J, Li K, Yang P, Wang Y, Xu C, He N, Ji K, Song H, Zhang M, Du L, Liu Q. Influence of e-waste exposure on DNA damage and DNA methylation in people living near recycling sites. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:88744-88756. [PMID: 37442932 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28591-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
The association between long-term exposure to e-waste and poor health is well established, but how e-waste exposure affects DNA methylation is understudied. In this study, we measured the DNA damage levels and the alternation of DNA methylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) collected from a population exposed to e-waste. The concentration of 28 PCB congeners in the blood samples of e-waste recycling workers was elevated than those of the reference group. DNA damage levels were significantly higher than that of samples from the reference group by detecting the SCGE, CA, and CBMN assays. Eventually, we found that the methylation level of 1233 gene loci was changed in the exposure group. Bioinformatic analysis of differential genes revealed that the hypermethylated genes were enriched in cell component movement and regulation of cell function, and hypomethylated genes were involved in the cellular metabolic process. Among the 30 genes we tested, 14 genes showed a negative correlation between methylation level and expression level. Therefore, e-waste exposure potentially increased the levels of DNA damage and alters DNA methylation, which would likely impact human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinhan Wang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Kejun Li
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Science, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Chang Xu
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ningning He
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Kaihua Ji
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Huijuan Song
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Manman Zhang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Liqing Du
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China.
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8
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Teixeira J, Sousa G, Morais S, Delerue-Matos C, Oliveira M. Assessment of coarse, fine, and ultrafine particulate matter at different microenvironments of fire stations. CHEMOSPHERE 2023:139005. [PMID: 37245598 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The concentrations of respirable particulate matter (PM) and the impact on indoor air quality in occupational settings remains poorly characterized. This study assesses, for the first time, the cumulative and non-cumulative concentrations of 14 fractions of coarse (3.65-9.88 μm), fine (0.156-2.47 μm), and ultrafine (0.015-0.095 μm) PM inside the garage of heavy vehicles, firefighting personal protective equipment' storage room, bar, and a common area of seven Portuguese fire stations. Sampling campaigns were performed during a regular work week at the fire stations. Levels of daily total cumulative PM ranged from 277.4 to 413.2 μg/m3 (maximum values of 811.4 μg/m3), with the bar (370.1 μg/m3) and the PPE' storage room (361.3 μg/m3) presenting slightly increased levels (p > 0.05) than the common area (324.8 μg/m3) and the garage (339.4 μg/m3). The location of the sampling site, the proximity to local industries and commercial activities, the layout of the building, the heating system used, and indoor sources influenced the PM concentrations. Fine (193.8-301.0 μg/m3) and ultrafine (41.3-78.2 μg/m3) particles were predominant in the microenvironments of all fire stations and accounted for 71.5% and 17.8% of daily total cumulative levels, respectively; coarse particles (23.3-47.1 μg/m3) represented 10.7% of total PM. The permissible exposure limit (5.0 mg/m3) defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Organization for respirable dust was not overcome in the evaluated fire stations. Results suggest firefighters' regular exposure to fine and ultrafine PM inside fire stations which will contribute to cardiorespiratory health burden. Further studies are needed to characterize firefighters' exposure to fine and ultrafine PM inside fire stations, identify main emission sources, and evaluate the contribution of exposures at fire stations to firefighters' occupational health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Teixeira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Gabriel Sousa
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal.
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9
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Lovén K, Isaxon C, Ahlberg E, Bermeo M, Messing ME, Kåredal M, Hedmer M, Rissler J. Size-resolved characterization of particles >10 nm emitted to air during metal recycling. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 174:107874. [PMID: 36934572 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107874] [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: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the strive towards a circular economy, metal waste recycling is a growing industry. During the recycling process, particulate matter containing toxic and allergenic metals will be emitted to the air causing unintentional exposure to humans and environment. OBJECTIVE In this study detailed characterization of particle emissions and workplace exposures were performed, covering the full size range from 10 nm to 10 µm, during recycling of three different material flows: Waste of electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), metal scrap, and cables. METHODS Both direct-reading instruments (minute resolution), and time-integrated filter measurements for gravimetric and chemical analysis were used. Additionally, optical sensors were applied and evaluated for long-term online monitoring of air quality in industrial settings. RESULTS The highest concentrations, in all particle sizes, and with respect both to particle mass and number, were measured in the WEEE flow, followed by the metal scrap flow. The number fraction of nanoparticles was high for all material flows (0.66-0.86). The most abundant metals were Fe, Al, Zn, Pb and Cu. Other elements of toxicological interest were Mn, Ba and Co. SIGNIFICANCE The large fraction of nanoparticles, and the fact that their chemical composition deviate from that of the coarse particles, raises questions that needs to be further addressed including toxicological implications, both for humans and for the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Lovén
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; Department of Occupation and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Christina Isaxon
- Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; NanoLund, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Ahlberg
- Division of Nuclear Physics, Department of Physics, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Marie Bermeo
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; Solid State Physics, Department of Physics, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria E Messing
- NanoLund, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; Solid State Physics, Department of Physics, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Monica Kåredal
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; Department of Occupation and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden; NanoLund, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria Hedmer
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; Department of Occupation and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, SE-22381 Lund, Sweden; NanoLund, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jenny Rissler
- Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; NanoLund, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden; Division of Bioeconomy and Health, RISE Research Institute of Sweden, SE-22370 Lund, Sweden.
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López M, López-Lilao A, Romero F, Pérez-Albaladejo E, Pinteño R, Porte C, Balasch A, Eljarrat E, Viana M, Monfort E. Size-resolved chemical composition and toxicity of particles released from refit operations in shipyards. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 880:163072. [PMID: 36990238 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Ship refit and repair operations in shipyards generate aerosol emissions with high potential for environmental impacts. Metal-bearing nano-, fine and coarse particles are incidentally formed and can be released to indoor and ambient air and the aquatic environment. This work aimed to further the understanding of these impacts by characterising particle size-resolved chemical composition (15 nm - 10 μm), organophosphate esters (OPEs) content (e.g., plasticisers) and cytotoxic and genotoxic potential. Results showed that nanoparticle emissions (20-110 nm) took place in bursts, coinciding with the use of mechanical abraders and spray-painting guns. Tracers of these activities were Sc, V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Rb, Nb, and Cs. Key components were V and Cu, probably sourcing from nanoadditives in the coatings. Abrasion of coatings also emitted OPEs, especially from old paints. Toxicity assessments consistently evidenced hazardous potential for the different endpoints assessed, for a number of samples. Exposures to spray-painting aerosols were linked with reduced cell viability (cytotoxicity), significant generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and increases in micronuclei frequency (genotoxicity). Even though spray-painting did not contribute significantly to aerosol mass or number concentrations, it was a major driver of potential health effects. Results suggest that aerosol chemical composition (e.g., content in nano-sized Cu or V) may have a larger impact on toxicity than aerosol concentration. While direct human exposures may be prevented using personal and collective protective equipment and environmental release can be minimised by enclosures and filtration systems, impacts on ambient air and the aquatic environment cannot be fully prevented. The continued use of good practices (exhaust, dilution, general ventilation systems, PPE, already in place) is encouraged to reduce inhalation exposures inside the tents. Understanding the size-resolved chemical and toxicological properties of aerosols is key to reducing human health and environmental impacts of ship refit operations in shipyards.
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