The nanoGRAVUR framework to group (nano)materials for their occupational, consumer, environmental risks based on a harmonized set of material properties, applied to 34 case studies

Everything falls apart: How solids degrade and release nanomaterials, composite fragments, and microplastics

To ensure the safe use of materials, one must assess the identity and quantity of exposure. Solid materials, such as plastics, metals, coatings and cements, degrade to some extent during their life cycle, and releases can occur during manufacturing, use and end-of-life. Releases (e.g., what is released, how does release happen, and how much material is released) depend on the composition and internal (nano)structures of the material as well as the applied stresses during the lifecycle. We consider, in some depth, releases from mechanical, weathering and thermal stresses and specifically address the use cases of fused-filament 3D printing, dermal contact, food contact and textile washing. Solid materials can release embedded nanomaterials, composite fragments, or micro- and nanoplastics, as well as volatile organics, ions and dissolved organics. The identity of the release is often a heterogenous mixture and requires adapted strategies for sampling and analysis, with suitable quality control measures. Control materials enhance robustness by enabling comparative testing, but reference materials are not always available as yet. The quantity of releases is typically described by time-dependent rates that are modulated by the nature and intensity of the applied stress, the chemical identity of the polymer or other solid matrix, and the chemical identity and compatibility of embedded engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) or other additives. Standardization of methods and the documentation of metadata, including all the above descriptors of the tested material, applied stresses, sampling and analytics, are identified as important needs to advance the field and to generate robust, comparable assessments. In this regard, there are strong methodological synergies between the study of all solid materials, including the study of micro- and nanoplastics. From an outlook perspective, we review the hazard of the released entities, and show how this informs risk assessment. We also address the transfer of methods to related issues such as tyre wear, advanced materials and advanced manufacturing, biodegradable polymers, and non-solid matrices. As the consideration of released entities will become more routine in industry via lifecycle assessment in Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design practices, release assessments will require careful design of the study with quality controls, the use of agreed-on test materials and standardized methods where these exist and the adoption of clearly defined data reporting practices that enable data reuse, meta-analyses, and comparative studies.

Influence of Silver Fiber Morphology on the Dose-Response Relationship and Enrichment in Daphnia magna Studied by Elemental Imaging with LA-ICP-TOF-MS

This study aims to enhance the understanding of the environmental risks associated with nanomaterials, particularly nanofibers. Previous research suggested that silver fibers exhibit higher toxicity (EC50/48h 1.6-8.5 μg/L) compared to spherical silver particles (EC50/48h 43 μg/L). To investigate the hypothesis that toxicity is influenced by the morphology and size of nanomaterials, various silver nanofibers with different dimensions (length and diameter) were selected. The study assessed their toxicity toward Daphnia magna using the 48 h immobilization assay. The EC50 values for the different fibers ranged from 122 to 614 μg/L. Subsequently, the study quantified the uptake and distribution of two representative nanofibers in D. magna neonates by employing digestion and imaging mass spectrometry in the form of laser-ablation-ICP-MS. A novel sample preparation method was utilized, allowing the analysis of whole, intact daphnids, which facilitated the localization of silver material and prevented artifacts. The results revealed that, despite the similar ecotoxicity of the silver fibers, the amount of silver associated with the neonates differed by a factor of 2-3. However, both types of nanofibers were primarily found in the gut of the organisms. In conclusion, the findings of this study do not support the expectation that the morphology or size of silver materials affect their toxicity to D. magna.

The State of the Art and Challenges of In Vitro Methods for Human Hazard Assessment of Nanomaterials in the Context of Safe-by-Design

The Safe-by-Design (SbD) concept aims to facilitate the development of safer materials/products, safer production, and safer use and end-of-life by performing timely SbD interventions to reduce hazard, exposure, or both. Early hazard screening is a crucial first step in this process. In this review, for the first time, commonly used in vitro assays are evaluated for their suitability for SbD hazard testing of nanomaterials (NMs). The goal of SbD hazard testing is identifying hazard warnings in the early stages of innovation. For this purpose, assays should be simple, cost-effective, predictive, robust, and compatible. For several toxicological endpoints, there are indications that commonly used in vitro assays are able to predict hazard warnings. In addition to the evaluation of assays, this review provides insights into the effects of the choice of cell type, exposure and dispersion protocol, and the (in)accurate determination of dose delivered to cells on predictivity. Furthermore, compatibility of assays with challenging advanced materials and NMs released from nano-enabled products (NEPs) during the lifecycle is assessed, as these aspects are crucial for SbD hazard testing. To conclude, hazard screening of NMs is complex and joint efforts between innovators, scientists, and regulators are needed to further improve SbD hazard testing.

Reproducibility of methods required to identify and characterize nanoforms of substances

Nanoforms (NFs) of a substance may be distinguished from one another through differences in their physicochemical properties. When registering nanoforms of a substance for assessment under the EU REACH framework, five basic descriptors are required for their identification: composition, surface chemistry, size, specific surface area and shape. To make the risk assessment of similar NFs efficient, a number of grouping frameworks have been proposed, which often require assessment of similarity on individual physicochemical properties as part of the group justification. Similarity assessment requires an understanding of the achievable accuracy of the available methods. It must be demonstrated that measured differences between NFs are greater than the achievable accuracy of the method, to have confidence that the measured differences are indeed real. To estimate the achievable accuracy of a method, we assess the reproducibility of six analytical techniques routinely used to measure these five basic descriptors of nanoforms: inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area and transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM). Assessment was performed on representative test materials to evaluate the reproducibility of methods on single NFs of substances. The achievable accuracy was defined as the relative standard deviation of reproducibility (RSD_R) for each method. Well established methods such as ICP-MS quantification of metal impurities, BET measurements of specific surface area, TEM and SEM for size and shape and ELS for surface potential and isoelectric point, all performed well, with low RSD_R, generally between 5 and 20%, with maximal fold differences usually <1.5 fold between laboratories. Applications of technologies such as TGA for measuring water content and putative organic impurities, additives or surface treatments (through loss on ignition), which have a lower technology readiness level, demonstrated poorer reproducibility, but still within 5-fold differences. The expected achievable accuracy of ICP-MS may be estimated for untested analytes using established relationships between concentration and reproducibility, but this is not yet the case for TGA measurements of loss on ignition or water content. The results here demonstrate an approach to estimate the achievable accuracy of a method that should be employed when interpreting differences between NFs on individual physicochemical properties.

Integrated approaches to testing and assessment for grouping nanomaterials following dermal exposure

Exposure to different nanoforms (NFs) via the dermal route is expected in occupational and consumer settings and thus it is important to assess their dermal toxicity and the contribution of dermal exposure to systemic bioavailability. We have formulated four grouping hypotheses for dermal toxicity endpoints which allow NFs to be grouped to streamline and facilitate risk assessment. The grouping hypotheses are developed based on insight into how physicochemical properties of NFs (i.e. composition, dissolution kinetics, size, and flexibility) influence their fate and hazard following dermal exposure. Each hypothesis is accompanied by a tailored Integrated Approach to Testing and Assessment (IATA) that is structured as a decision tree and tiered testing strategies (TTS) for each relevant question (at decision nodes) that indicate what information is needed to guide the user to accept or reject the grouping hypothesis. To develop these hypotheses and IATAs, we gathered and analyzed existing information on skin irritation, skin sensitization, and dermal penetration of NFs from the published literature and performed experimental work to generate data on NF dissolution in sweat simulant fluids. We investigated the dissolution of zinc oxide and silicon dioxide NFs in different artificial sweat fluids, demonstrating the importance of using physiologically relevant conditions for dermal exposure. All existing and generated data informed the formulation of the grouping hypotheses, the IATAs, and the design of the TTS. It is expected that the presented IATAs will accelerate the NF risk assessment for dermal toxicity via the application of read-across.

Meta-analysis of Bioaccumulation Data for Nondissolvable Engineered Nanomaterials in Freshwater Aquatic Organisms

Understanding the bioaccumulation of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) is essential for making regulatory decisions on potential environmental risks. Research in the field of ENM bioaccumulation has increased in recent years, but the compilation and statistical analysis of the available experimental data have not been updated. We therefore performed a meta-analysis of the existing literature on the bioaccumulation of eight types of nondissolvable ENMs (titanium dioxide [TiO₂ ], aluminum oxide [Al₂ O₃ ], gold [Au], fullerene [C₆₀ ], carbon nanotubes, iron oxide [FeO_x ], graphene, and polystyrene) in nonmammalian freshwater aquatic organisms across three trophic levels including phytoplankton, zooplankton, and fish. Three typical endpoints were used to assess the bioaccumulation potential: the bioconcentration factor (BCF), the bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and the biomagnification factor (BMF). Our results suggest that zooplankton has greater mean logarithmic BCF and BAF values than phytoplankton (3.31 vs. 1.42) and fish (2.04). The ENMs are biomagnified in zooplankton, with a mean BMF of 17.4, whereas trophic transfer from primary consumers (zooplankton) to secondary consumers (fish) was not observed (mean BMF of 0.13). No clear dependency was identified between the physicochemical characteristics of ENMs (e.g., primary particle size, zeta potential, or shape) and bioaccumulation, except for coated versus uncoated particles accumulated in phytoplankton. Carbonaceous ENMs were found to be more bioaccumulated than the other ENMs we considered, except for TiO₂ . A meta-analysis of bioaccumulation data can (1) deepen the understanding of bioconcentration, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification of ENMs, (2) be used to support grouping strategies as a basis for a safer-by-design approach for ENMs, (3) be integrated into comprehensive hazard and risk assessments, (4) promote the standardization of testing guidelines, and (5) enhance future kinetic bioaccumulation modeling. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1202-1214. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Determining nanoform similarity via assessment of surface reactivity by abiotic and in vitro assays

Grouping of substances is a method used to streamline hazard and risk assessment. Assessment of similarity provides the scientific evidence needed for formation of groups. This work reports on justification of grouping of nanoforms (NFs) via similarity of their surface reactivity. Four reactivity assays were used for concentration dependent detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by NFs: abiotic assays FRAS, EPR and DCFH2-DA, as well as the in vitro assay of NRF2/ARE responsive luciferase reporter activation in the HEK293 cell line. Representative materials (CuO, Mn₂O₃, BaSO₄, CeO₂ and ZnO) and three case studies of each several NFs of iron oxides, Diketopyrrolopyrroles (DPP)-based organic pigments and silicas were assessed. A novel similarity assessment algorithm was applied to quantify similarities between pairs of NFs, in a four-step workflow on concentration-response curves, individual concentration and response ranges, and finally the representative materials. We found this algorithm to be applicable to all abiotic and in vitro assays that were tested. Justification of grouping must include the increased potency of smaller particles via the scaling of effects with specific surface, and hence quantitative similarity analysis was performed on concentration-response in mass-metrics. CuO and BaSO₄ were the most and least reactive representative materials respectively, and all assays found BaSO₄/CuO not similar, as confirmed by their different NOAECs of in vivo studies. However, similarity outcomes from different reactivity assays were not always in agreement, highlighting the need to generate data by one assay for the representative materials and the candidate group of NFs. Despite low similarity scores in vitro some pairs of case study NFs can be accepted as sufficiently similar because the in vivo NOAECs are similar, highlighting the conservative assessment by the abiotic assays.

Possibilities to group nanomaterials across different substances - A case study on organic pigments

Grouping concepts to reduce the testing of NFs have been developed for regulatory purposes for different forms of the same substance. Here we explore possibilities to group nanomaterials across different substances for non-regulatory applications, using the example of 16 organic pigments from six chemical classes. Organic pigments are particles consisting of low-molar-mass organic molecules, and rank by tonnage among the most important substances manufactured in nanoform (NF). Tiered testing strategies relevant to the inhalation route included Tier 1 (deposition, dissolution, reactivity, inflammation) and if available Tier 3 data (in vivo). A similarity assessment of the pigment NF data was conducted in a quantitative (Tier 1 and Tier 3 in vivo potency) or qualitative (Tier 3 in vivo effects) manner. We observed that chemical similarity of organic pigments was predictive for their similarity of reactivity and dissolution, but that additional NF descriptors such as surface area or size, modulate the similarity in inflammation or cytotoxicity. We applied the concept of biologically relevant ranges to crop the values of the Tier 1 data matrix before applying similarity algorithms. The Tier 3 assessment by in vivo inhalation confirmed the IATA methodical choices and IATA assessment criteria as consistent and conservative. We suggested limits of acceptable similarity for Tier 1 data and demonstrated their application to support the grouping of some candidate NFs (subsequently confirmed by Tier 3 data). Four candidate NFs exceeded the limits of acceptability for Tier 1 and were escalated from Tier 1 to Tier 3, but were then included in the group, demonstrating the conservative Tier 1 criteria. The resulting group of low-solubility, low-reactivity materials included both NFs and non-NFs of various substances, and could find use for risk management purposes in the occupational handling of pigment powders.

Refinement of the selection of physicochemical properties for grouping and read-across of nanoforms

Before placing a new nanoform (NF) on the market, its potential adverse effects must be evaluated. This may e.g. be done via hazard and risk assessment. Grouping and read-across of NFs is a possible strategy to reduce resource consumption, maximising the use of existing data for assessment of NFs. The GRACIOUS project provides a framework in which possible grouping and read-across for NFs is mainly based on an evaluation of their similarity. The impact of NFs on human health and the environment depends strongly on the concentration of the NF and its physicochemical properties, such as chemical composition, size distribution, shape, etc. Hence, knowledge of the most relevant physicochemical properties is essential information for comparing similarity. The presented work aims to refine existing proposals for sets of descriptors (descriptor array) that are needed to describe distinct NFs of a material to identify the most relevant ones for grouping and read-across. The selection criteria for refining this descriptor array are explained and demonstrated. Relevant protocols and methods are proposed for each physicochemical property. The required and achievable measurement accuracies of the refined descriptor array are reviewed, as this information is necessary for similarity assessment of NFs based on individual physicochemical properties.

How can we justify grouping of nanoforms for hazard assessment? Concepts and tools to quantify similarity

The risk of each nanoform (NF) of the same substance cannot be assumed to be the same, as they may vary in their physicochemical characteristics, exposure and hazard. However, neither can we justify a need for more animal testing and resources to test every NF individually. To reduce the need to test all NFs, (regulatory) information requirements may be fulfilled by grouping approaches. For such grouping to be acceptable, it is important to demonstrate similarities in physicochemical properties, toxicokinetic behaviour, and (eco)toxicological behaviour. The GRACIOUS Framework supports the grouping of NFs, by identifying suitable grouping hypotheses that describe the key similarities between different NFs. The Framework then supports the user to gather the evidence required to test these hypotheses and to subsequently assess the similarity of the NFs within the proposed group. The evidence needed to support a hypothesis is gathered by an Integrated Approach to Testing and Assessment (IATA), designed as decision trees constructed of decision nodes. Each decision node asks the questions and provides the methods needed to obtain the most relevant information. This White paper outlines existing and novel methods to assess similarity of the data generated for each decision node, either via a pairwise analysis conducted property-by-property, or by assessing multiple decision nodes simultaneously via a multidimensional analysis. For the pairwise comparison conducted property-by-property we included in this White paper: The x-fold, Bayesian and Arsinh-OWA distance algorithms performed comparably in the scoring of similarity between NF pairs. The Euclidean distance was also useful, but only with proper data transformation. The x-fold method does not standardize data, and thus produces skewed histograms, but has the advantage that it can be implemented without programming knowhow. A range of multidimensional evaluations, using for example dendrogram clustering approaches, were also investigated. Multidimensional distance metrics were demonstrated to be difficult to use in a regulatory context, but from a scientific perspective were found to offer unexpected insights into the overall similarity of very different materials. In conclusion, for regulatory purposes, a property-by-property evaluation of the data matrix is recommended to substantiate grouping, while the multidimensional approaches are considered to be tools of discovery rather than regulatory methods.

Structure-Activity Relationship of Graphene-Based Materials: Impact of the Surface Chemistry, Surface Specific Area and Lateral Size on Their In Vitro Toxicity

Predictive toxicity and structure–activity relationships (SARs) are raising interest since the number of nanomaterials has become unmanageable to assess their toxicity with a classical case-by-case approach. Graphene-based materials (GBMs) are among the most promising nanomaterials of this decade and their application might lead to several innovations. However, their toxicity impact needs to be thoroughly assessed. In this regard, we conducted a study on 22 GBMs to investigate their potential SARs by performing a complete physicochemical characterization and in vitro toxicity assessment (on RAW264.7 cells). We used GBMs of variable lateral size (0.5–38 µm), specific surface area (SSA, 30–880 m²/g), and surface oxidation (2–17%). We observed that reduced graphene oxides (RGOs) were more reactive than graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), potentially highlighting the role of GBM’s surface chemistry and surface defects density in their biological impact. We also observed that for GNPs, a smaller lateral size caused higher cytotoxicity. Lastly, GBMs showing a SSA higher than 200 m²/g were found to induce a higher ROS production. Mechanistic explanations are proposed in the discussion. In conclusion, pairing a full physicochemical characterization with a standardized toxicity assessment of a large set of samples allowed us to clarify SARs and provide an additional step toward safe-by-design GBMs.

Assessing biological oxidative damage induced by graphene-based materials: An asset for grouping approaches using the FRAS assay

Graphene-based materials (GBMs) are extremely promising and their increasing number urges scientists to conduct more and more toxicity studies. However, case-by-case approaches are rarely the best options in the earliest phases of industrial processes. Grouping can show great assets in this context: it is defined as the process of gathering substances into a common group. Oxidative stress being a major mechanism of nanotoxicity, an important grouping criterion is the surface reactivity, for which a relevant assessment is the FRAS (ferric reducing ability of the serum) assay. However, the application of the FRAS to GBMs is questioned due to their hydrophobicity. In this study, we explored the relevance and feasibility of the FRAS for grouping, working on 22 GBMs and 2 carbon blacks. We concluded that with few adjustments, the FRAS method appeared perfectly adapted to these materials and allowed a classification as "reactive" or "non-reactive" in agreement with results of ROS production for 84% of our GBMs. While not self-sufficient for toxicity assessment, the FRAS presents interesting qualities: it is fast, cheap, and simple. Therefore, we recommend studying GBMs using the FRAS as a step of a grouping process, a complement to other assays or as an early screening tool.

An Integrated Approach to Testing and Assessment to Support Grouping and Read-Across of Nanomaterials After Inhalation Exposure

Introduction: Here, we describe the generation of hypotheses for grouping nanoforms (NFs) after inhalation exposure and the tailored Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATA) with which each specific hypothesis can be tested. This is part of a state-of-the-art framework to support the hypothesis-driven grouping and read-across of NFs, as developed by the EU-funded Horizon 2020 project GRACIOUS.

Development of Grouping Hypotheses and IATA: Respirable NFs, depending on their physicochemical properties, may dissolve either in lung lining fluid or in acidic lysosomal fluid after uptake by cells. Alternatively, NFs may also persist in particulate form. Dissolution in the lung is, therefore, a decisive factor for the toxicokinetics of NFs. This has led to the development of four hypotheses, broadly grouping NFs as instantaneous, quickly, gradually, and very slowly dissolving NFs. For instantaneously dissolving NFs, hazard information can be derived by read-across from the ions. For quickly dissolving particles, as accumulation of particles is not expected, ion toxicity will drive the toxic profile. However, the particle aspect influences the location of the ion release. For gradually dissolving and very slowly dissolving NFs, particle-driven toxicity is of concern. These NFs may be grouped by their reactivity and inflammation potency. The hypotheses are substantiated by a tailored IATA, which describes the minimum information and laboratory assessments of NFs under investigation required to justify grouping.

Conclusion: The GRACIOUS hypotheses and tailored IATA for respiratory toxicity of inhaled NFs can be used to support decision making regarding Safe(r)-by-Design product development or adoption of precautionary measures to mitigate potential risks. It can also be used to support read-across of adverse effects such as pulmonary inflammation and subsequent downstream effects such as lung fibrosis and lung tumor formation after long-term exposure.

Creating sets of similar nanoforms with the ECETOC NanoApp: real-life case studies

The ECETOC NanoApp was developed to support industry in the registration of sets of nanoforms, as well as regulators in the evaluation of these registration dossiers. The ECETOC NanoApp uses a systematic approach to create and justify sets of similar nanoforms, following the ECHA guidance in a transparent and evidence-based manner. The rational and decision rules behind the ECETOC NanoApp are described in detail in "Janer, G., R. Landsiedel, and W. Wohlleben. 2021. [Rationale and Decision Rules Behind the ECETOC NanoApp to Support Registration of Sets of Similar Nanoforms within REACH. Nanotoxicology 15 (2): 145-122. https://doi.org/10.1080/17435390.2020.1842933]". The decision criteria apply to human health and environmental hazards and risks. Here, we focus mostly on human health hazards; the decision rules are applied to a series of case studies, each consisting of real nanoforms: two barium sulfate nanoforms, four colloidal silica nanoforms, eight ceria nanoforms, and four copper phthalocyanine nanoforms. For each of them, we show step by step how the ECETOC NanoApp rules are applied. The cases include nanoforms that are justified as members of the same set of similar nanoforms based on sufficient similarity of their intrinsic properties (Tier 1). They also include other nanoforms with a relatively high (but insufficient) similarity of intrinsic properties; their similarity could be justified by functional properties (Tier 2). The case studies also include nanoforms that are concluded not to belong to the same set of similar nanoforms. These outcomes of the NanoApp were overall consistent (sometimes conservative) with available in vivo data. We also noted that datasets for various nanoforms were limited and use of the NanoApp may require the generation of data relevant to the decision criteria.

Classes of organic pigments meet tentative PSLT criteria and lack toxicity in short-term inhalation studies

Here, we present a non-animal testing battery to identify PSLT (poorly soluble, low toxicity) substances based on their solubility in phagolysosomal lung fluid simulant, surface reactivity and effects on alveolar macrophages in vitro. This is exemplified by eleven organic pigments belonging to five chemical classes that cover a significant share of the European market. Three of the pigments were tested as both, nanoform and non-nanoform. The results obtained in this integrated non-animal testing battery qualified two pigments as non PSLT, one pigment as poorly soluble and eight pigments as poorly soluble and low toxicity in vitro. The low toxic potency of the eight PSLT and the one poorly soluble pigment was corroborated by short-term inhalation studies with rats. These pigments did not elicit apparent toxic effects at 10 mg/m³ (systemic and in the respiratory tract). One of the pigments, Diarylide Pigment Yellow 83 transparent, however, caused minimal infiltration of neutrophils; hence its low toxicity is ambiguous and needs further verification or falsification. The present test battery provides an opportunity to identify PSLT-properties of test substances to prioritise particles for further development. Thus, it can help to reduce animal testing and steer product development towards safe applications.

Aerogels are not regulated as nanomaterials, but can be assessed by tiered testing and grouping strategies for nanomaterials

Aerogels contribute to an increasing number of novel applications due to many unique properties, such as high porosity and low density. They outperform most other insulation materials, and some are also useful as carriers in food or pharma applications. Aerogels are not nanomaterials by the REACH definition but retain properties of nanoscale structures. Here we applied a testing strategy in three tiers. In Tier 1, we examined a panel of 19 aerogels (functionalized chitosan, alginate, pyrolyzed carbon, silicate, cellulose, polyurethane) for their biosolubility, and oxidative potential. Biosolubility was very limited except for some alginate and silicate aerogels. Oxidative potential, as by the ferric reduction ability of human serum (FRAS), was very low except for one chitosan and pyrolyzed carbon, both of which were <10% of the positive control Mn₂O₃. Five aerogels were further subjected to the Tier 2 alveolar macrophage assay, which revealed no in vitro cytotoxicity, except for silicate and polyurethane that induced increases in tumor necrosis factor α. Insufficiently similar aerogels were excluded from a candidate group, and a worst case identified. In the Tier 3 in vivo instillation, polyurethane (0.3 to 2.4 mg) elicited dose-dependent but reversible enzyme changes in lung lavage fluid on day 3, but no significant inflammatory effects. Overall, the results show a very low inherent toxicity of aerogels and support a categorization based on similarities in Tier 1 and Tier 2. This exemplifies how nanosafety concepts and methods developed on particles can be applied to specific concerns on advanced materials that contain or release nanostructures.

The preparation temperature influences the physicochemical nature and activity of nanoceria

Cerium oxide nanoparticles, so-called nanoceria, are engineered nanomaterials prepared by many methods that result in products with varying physicochemical properties and applications. Those used industrially are often calcined, an example is NM-212. Other nanoceria have beneficial pharmaceutical properties and are often prepared by solvothermal synthesis. Solvothermally synthesized nanoceria dissolve in acidic environments, accelerated by carboxylic acids. NM-212 dissolution has been reported to be minimal. To gain insight into the role of high-temperature exposure on nanoceria dissolution, product susceptibility to carboxylic acid-accelerated dissolution, and its effect on biological and catalytic properties of nanoceria, the dissolution of NM-212, a solvothermally synthesized nanoceria material, and a calcined form of the solvothermally synthesized nanoceria material (ca. 40, 4, and 40 nm diameter, respectively) was investigated. Two dissolution methods were employed. Dissolution of NM-212 and the calcined nanoceria was much slower than that of the non-calcined form. The decreased solubility was attributed to an increased amount of surface Ce4+ species induced by the high temperature. Carboxylic acids doubled the very low dissolution rate of NM-212. Nanoceria dissolution releases Ce3+ ions, which, with phosphate, form insoluble cerium phosphate in vivo. The addition of immobilized phosphates did not accelerate nanoceria dissolution, suggesting that the Ce3+ ion release during nanoceria dissolution was phosphate-independent. Smaller particles resulting from partial nanoceria dissolution led to less cellular protein carbonyl formation, attributed to an increased amount of surface Ce3+ species. Surface reactivity was greater for the solvothermally synthesized nanoceria, which had more Ce3+ species at the surface. The results show that temperature treatment of nanoceria can produce significant differences in solubility and surface cerium valence, which affect the biological and catalytic properties of nanoceria.

Serum Lowers Bioactivity and Uptake of Synthetic Amorphous Silica by Alveolar Macrophages in a Particle Specific Manner

Various cell types are compromised by synthetic amorphous silica (SAS) if they are exposed to SAS under protein-free conditions in vitro. Addition of serum protein can mitigate most SAS effects, but it is not clear whether this is solely caused by protein corona formation and/or altered particle uptake. Because sensitive and reliable mass spectrometric measurements of SiO₂ NP are cumbersome, quantitative uptake studies of SAS at the cellular level are largely missing. In this study, we combined the comparison of SAS effects on alveolar macrophages in the presence and absence of foetal calf serum with mass spectrometric measurement of ²⁸Si in alkaline cell lysates. Effects on the release of lactate dehydrogenase, glucuronidase, TNFα and H₂O₂ of precipitated (SIPERNAT^® 50, SIPERNAT^® 160) and fumed SAS (AEROSIL^® OX50, AEROSIL^® 380 F) were lowered close to control level by foetal calf serum (FCS) added to the medium. Using a quantitative high resolution ICP-MS measurement combined with electron microscopy, we found that FCS reduced the uptake of particle mass by 9.9% (SIPERNAT^® 50) up to 83.8% (AEROSIL^® OX50). Additionally, larger particle agglomerates were less frequent in cells in the presence of FCS. Plotting values for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glucuronidase (GLU) or tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) against the mean cellular dose showed the reduction of bioactivity with a particle sedimentation bias. As a whole, the mitigating effects of FCS on precipitated and fumed SAS on alveolar macrophages are caused by a reduction of bioactivity and by a lowered internalization, and both effects occur in a particle specific manner. The method to quantify nanosized SiO₂ in cells is a valuable tool for future in vitro studies.

Regulatory developments and their impacts to the nano-industry: A case study for nano-additives in 3D printing

Nanotechnology has increasing applications in numerous markets, particularly in additive processing (3D printing) and manufacturing, which is important for consumer products, medical devices, construction, and general research and development across many other industries. Nanomaterials are desirable in many products due to their unique properties, but those same properties have made evaluating the risk and regulation of these materials challenging. For risk-based regulations, new applications and nanomaterials should be assessed for both human and environmental hazards and exposure to ensure protection. In general, many risk assessments to date have focused on the non-nano versions of chemicals. The lack of guidance on assessing the hazard and exposure of nanomaterials in 3D printing is apparent, and these areas of assessment are actively being evaluated. Industry in most cases will now need to provide specific additional information for assessing the risk of nanomaterials in 3D printing. This review paper focuses on the use of nanomaterials in 3D printing for industrial and manufacturing applications, summarizes the current literature on human health and safety related to 3D printing and inhalation exposure, and the regulations relating to 3D printing in the U.S., Canada, and Europe for this industry.

Rationale and decision rules behind the ECETOC NanoApp to support registration of sets of similar nanoforms within REACH

New registration requirements for nanomaterials under REACH consider the possibility to form 'sets of similar nanoforms' for a joined human health and environmental hazard, exposure and risk assessment. We developed a tool to create and justify sets of similar nanoforms and to ensure that each of the nanoforms is sufficiently similar to all other nanoforms. The decision logic is following the ECHA guidance in a transparent and evidence-based manner. For each two nanoforms the properties under consideration are compared and corresponding thresholds for maximal differences are proposed. In tier1, similarity is assessed based on intrinsic properties that mostly correspond to those required for nanoform identification under REACH: composition, impurities/additives, size, crystallinity, shape and surface treatment. Moreover, potential differences in the agglomeration/aggregation state resulting from different production processes are considered. If nanoforms were not sufficiently similar based on tier1 criteria, additional data from functional assays are required in tier2. In rare cases, additional short-term in vivo rodent data could be required in a third tier. Data required by tier 2 are triggered by the intrinsic properties in the first tier that did not match the similarity criteria. Most often this will be data on dissolution and surface reactivity followed by in vitro toxicity, dispersion stability, dustiness. Out of several nanoforms given by the user, the tool concludes which nanoforms could be justified to be in the same set and which nanoforms are outside. It defines the boundaries of sets of similar nanoforms and generates a justification for the REACH registration.

A methodology for developing key events to advance nanomaterial-relevant adverse outcome pathways to inform risk assessment

Significant advances have been made in the development of Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) over the last decade, mainly focused on the toxicity mechanisms of chemicals. These AOPs, although relevant to manufactured nanomaterials (MNs), do not currently capture the reported roles of size-associated properties of MNs on toxicity. Moreover, some AOs of relevance to airborne exposures to MNs such as lung inflammation and fibrosis shown in animal studies may not be targeted in routine regulatory decision making. The primary objective of the present study was to establish an approach to advance the development of AOPs of relevance to MNs using existing, publicly available, nanotoxicology literature. A systematic methodology was created for curating, organizing and applying the available literature for identifying key events (KEs). Using a case study approach, the study applied the available literature to build the biological plausibility for 'tissue injury', a KE of regulatory relevance to MNs. The results of the analysis reveal the various endpoints, assays and specific biological markers used for assessing and reporting tissue injury. The study elaborates on the limitations and opportunities of the current nanotoxicology literature and provides recommendations for the future reporting of nanotoxicology results that will expedite not only the development of AOPs for MNs but also aid in application of existing data for decision making.

Dosimetry in vitro - exploring the sensitivity of deposited dose predictions vs. affinity, polydispersity, freeze-thawing, and analytical methods

Dose-response by in vitro testing is only valid if the fraction of the particle dose that deposits onto adherent cells is known. Modeling tools such as the 'distorted grid' (DG) code are common practices to predict that fraction. As another challenge, workflow efficiency depends on parallelized sample preparation, for which freeze-thaw protocols have been explored earlier, but not their implications on dosimetry. Here we assess the sensitivity of the DG code toward freeze-thaw protocols and variations in user-defined parameters, including the estimation of particle-cell affinity and determination of agglomerate size, which we measure by DLS or AUC. We challenge the sensitivity by materials of varying composition, surface functionalization, and size (TiO₂, CeO₂, BaSO₄, 2x Ag, 3x SiO₂). We found that the average effective density is robust, but the dose predictions by different approaches varied typically 2-fold and up to 10-fold; this uncertainty translates directly into the uncertainty of no-effect-concentrations. The use of standardized dispersion protocols increases the uncertainty in doses. The choice of a measurement method and minor details of the particle size distribution strongly influence the modeled dosimetry. Uncertainty is high for very well dispersed nanomaterials; since then, the assumed affinity of particles to cells has a decisive influence. Against this background, the modulation of deposited dose by freeze-thaw protocols is a minor factor that can be controlled by aligning the protocols of sample preparation. However, even then, the uncertainty of deposited doses must be considered when comparing the in vitro toxicity of different nanomaterials.

Health and Safety Concerns Related to CNT and Graphene Products, and Related Composites

The use of Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) and Graphene increased in the last decade and it is likely to keep increasing in the near future. The attractiveness of their properties, particularly the possibility to enhance the composites performance using a tailor made methodology, brings new materials, processes and products for highly demanding industrial applications and to the market. However, there are quite a lot of health/safety issues, as well as lack of understanding and standards to evaluate their effects. This paper starts with a general description of materials, processes and products dealing with CNT and graphene. Then, an overview of concerns related to the health and safety when handling, researching, producing and using products that include these materials is presented. It follows a risk management approach with respect to simulation and evaluation tools, and considering the consensual limits already existing for research, industry and consumers. A general discussion integrating the relevant aspects of health and safety with respect to CNT and graphene is also presented. A proactive view is presented with the intention to contribute with some guidelines on installation, maintenance, evaluation, personal protection equipment (PPE) and personnel training to deal with these carbon-based nanomaterials in research, manufacture, and use with composite materials.

A Method to Assess the Relevance of Nanomaterial Dissolution During Reactivity Testing

The reactivity of particle surfaces can be used as a criterion to group nanoforms (NFs) based on similar potential hazard. Since NFs may partially or completely dissolve over the duration of the assays, with the ions themselves inducing a response, reactivity assays commonly measure the additive reactivity of the particles and ions combined. Here, we determine the concentration of ions released over the course of particle testing, and determine the relative contributions of the released ions to the total reactivity measured. We differentiate three classes of reactivity, defined as being (A) dominated by particles, (B) additive of particles and ions, or (C) dominated by ions. We provide examples for each class by analyzing the NF reactivity of Fe₂O₃, ZnO, CuO, Ag using the ferric reduction ability of serum (FRAS) assay. Furthermore, another two reactivity tests were performed: Dichlorodihydrofluorescin diacetate (DCFH₂-DA) assay and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. We compare assays and demonstrate that the dose-response may be almost entirely assigned to ions in one assay (CuO in DCFH₂-DA), but to particles in others (CuO in EPR and FRAS). When considering this data, we conclude that one cannot specify the contribution of ions to NF toxicity for a certain NF, but only for a certain NF in a specific assay, medium and dose. The extent of dissolution depends on the buffer used, particle concentration applied, and duration of exposure. This culminates in the DCFH₂-DA, EPR, FRAS assays being performed under different ion-to-particle ratios, and differing in their sensitivity towards reactions induced by either ions or particles. If applied for grouping, read-across, or other concepts based on the similarity of partially soluble NFs, results on reactivity should only be compared if measured by the same assay, incubation time, and dose range.

Chemical and Colloidal Dynamics of MnO2 Nanosheets in Biological Media Relevant for Nanosafety Assessment

Many layered crystal phases can be exfoliated or assembled into ultrathin 2D nanosheets with novel properties not achievable by particulate or fibrous nanoforms. Among these 2D materials are manganese dioxide (MnO2 ) nanosheets, which have applications in batteries, catalysts, and biomedical probes. A novel feature of MnO2 is its sensitivity to chemical reduction leading to dissolution and Mn2+ release. Biodissolution is critical for nanosafety assessment of 2D materials, but the timing and location of MnO2 biodissolution in environmental or occupational exposure scenarios are poorly understood. This work investigates the chemical and colloidal dynamics of MnO2 nanosheets in biological media for environmental and human health risk assessment. MnO2 nanosheets are insoluble in most aqueous phases, but react with strong and weak reducing agents in biological fluid environments. In vitro, reductive dissolution can be slow enough in cell culture media for MnO2 internalization by cells in the form of intact nanosheets, which localize in vacuoles, react to deplete intracellular glutathione, and induce cytotoxicity that is likely mediated by intracellular Mn2+ release. The results are used to classify MnO2 nanosheets within a new hazard screening framework for 2D materials, and the implications of MnO2 transformations for nanotoxicity testing and nanosafety assessment are discussed.

Understanding Dissolution Rates via Continuous Flow Systems with Physiologically Relevant Metal Ion Saturation in Lysosome

Dissolution rates of nanomaterials can be decisive for acute in vivo toxicity (via the released ions) and for biopersistence (of the remaining particles). Continuous flow systems (CFSs) can screen for both aspects, but operational parameters need to be adjusted to the specific physiological compartment, including local metal ion saturation. CFSs have two adjustable parameters: the volume flow-rate and the initial particle loading. Here we explore the pulmonary lysosomal dissolution of nanomaterials containing the metals Al, Ba, Zn, Cu over a wide range of volume flow-rates in a single experiment. We identify the ratio of particle surface area (SA) per volume flow-rate (SA/V) as critical parameter that superimposes all dissolution rates of the same material. Three complementary benchmark materials—ZnO (quick dissolution), TiO₂ (very slow dissolution), and BaSO₄ (partial dissolution)—consistently identify the SA/V range of 0.01 to 0.03 h/cm as predictive for lysosomal pulmonary biodissolution. We then apply the identified method to compare against non-nanoforms of the same substances and test aluminosilicates. For BaSO₄ and TiO₂, we find high similarity of the dissolution rates of their respective nanoform and non-nanoform, governed by the local ion solubility limit at relevant SA/V ranges. For aluminosilicates, we find high similarity of the dissolution rates of two Kaolin nanoforms but significant dissimilarity against Bentonite despite the similar composition.

Lung Toxicity Analysis of Nano-Sized Kaolin and Bentonite: Missing Indications for a Common Grouping

Kaolin and bentonite (nanoclay NM-600) are nanostructured aluminosilicates that share a similar chemical composition, platelet-like morphology, and high binding capacity for biomolecules. To investigate if these material-based criteria allow for a common grouping, we prepared particle suspensions of kaolin and bentonite with a similar hydrodynamic diameter and administered them to NR8383 alveolar macrophages in vitro and also to a rat lung using quartz DQ12 as a reference material. Bentonite was far more bioactive in vitro, indicated by a lower threshold for the release of enzymes, tumor necrosis factor α, and H₂O₂. In addition, in the lung, the early effects of bentonite exceeded those of kaolin and even those of quartz, due to strongly increased numbers of inflammatory cells, and elevated concentrations of total protein and fibronectin within the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The pro-inflammatory effects of bentonite decreased over time, although assemblies of particle-laden alveolar macrophages (CD68 positive), numerous type-2 epithelial cells (immunopositive for pro-surfactant protein C), and hypertrophic lung epithelia persisted until day 21. At this point in time, kaolin-treated lungs were completely recovered, whereas quartz DQ12 had induced a progressive inflammation. We conclude that bentonite is far more bioactive than equally sized kaolin. This argues against a common grouping of aluminosilicates, previously suggested for different kaolin qualities.

Evaluating performance, degradation, and release behavior of a nanoform pigmented coating after natural and accelerated weathering

Pigments with nanoscale dimensions are added to exterior coatings to achieve desirable color and gloss properties. The present study compared the performance, degradation, and release behavior of an acrylic coating that was pigmented by a nanoform of Cu-phthalocyanine after both natural (i.e., outdoor) and accelerated weathering. Samples were weathered outdoors in three geographically distinct locations across the United States (Arizona, Colorado, Maryland) continuously for 15 months. Identically prepared samples were also artificially weathered under accelerated conditions (increased ultraviolet (UV) light intensity and elevated temperatures) for three months, in one-month increments. After exposure, both sets of samples were characterized with color, gloss, and infrared spectroscopy measurements, and selectively with surface roughness measurements. Results indicated that UV-driven coating oxidation was the principal degradation pathway for both natural and accelerated weathering samples, with accelerated weathering leading to an increased rate of oxidation without altering the fundamental degradation pathway. The inclusion of the nanoform pigment reduced the rate of coating oxidation, via UV absorption by the pigment, leading to improved coating integrity compared to non-pigmented samples. Release measurements collected during natural weathering studies indicated there was never a period of weathering, in any location, that led to copper material release above background copper measurements. Lab-based release experiments performed on samples weathered naturally and under accelerated conditions found that the release of degraded coating material after each type of exposure was diminished by the inclusion of the nanoform pigment. Release measurements also indicated that the nanoform pigment remained embedded within the coating and did not release after weathering.

Fragmentation of polymer nanocomposites: modulation by dry and wet weathering, fractionation, and nanomaterial filler

In recent years, an increasing number of polymeric composites incorporating engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have reached the market. Such nano-enabled products (NEPs) present enhanced performance through improved mechanical, thermal, UV protection, electrical, and gas barrier properties. However, little is known about how environmental weathering impacts ENM release, especially for high-tonnage NEPs like kaolin products, which have not been extensively examined by the scientific community. Here we study the simulated environmental weathering of different polymeric nanocomposites (epoxy, polyamide, polypropylene) filled with organic (multiwalled carbon nanotube, graphene, carbon black) and inorganic (WS2, SiO2, kaolin, Fe2O3, Cu-phthalocyanines) ENMs. Multiple techniques were employed by researchers at three laboratories to extensively evaluate the effect of weathering: ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), optical microscopy, contact angle measurements, gravimetric analysis, analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy. This work aimed to elucidate the extent to which weathering protocol (i.e. wet vs. dry) and diverse filler characteristics modulate fragment release and polymer matrix degradation. In doing so, it expanded the established NanoRelease protocol, previously used for analyzing fragment emission, by evaluating two significant additions: (1) simulated weathering with rain events and (2) fractionation of sample leachate prior to analysis. Comparing different composite materials and protocols demonstrated that the polymer matrix is the most significant factor in NEP aging. Wet weathering is more realistic than dry weathering, but dry weathering seems to provide a more controlled release of material over wet. Wet weathering studies could be complicated by leaching, and the addition of a fractionation step can improve the quality of UV-vis measurements.