IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Development of a method for measuring nanoparticle penetration through glove materials under conditions simulating workplace use

Abstract

With the anticipated growth of nanotechnologies, the risks of exposure to nanoparticles, already present in the workplace, will increase exponentially. Contamination through the skin has not been extensively studied and some people believe that it is underestimated. It also seems that, in some cases, troubling concentrations of nanoparticles can pass through protective clothing, particularly laboratory gloves. The research team aims to develop a method for characterizing the protective efficiency of glove materials against nanoparticles under conditions simulating those in workplaces. This project will also provide data on the impermeability of several of these materials to certain nanoparticles, which will lead to the formulation of preliminary recommendations on the choice of gloves protecting against risks of exposure. This knowledge will provide a basis for the creation of materials offering increased resistance to nanoparticle penetration under typical conditions of workplace use. It will also promote the acquisition of expertise in the new field of protection against nanoparticles.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0099-7910
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2012
Team:
  • Toan Vu-Khanh (École de technologie supérieure)
  • Patricia Dolez (École de technologie supérieure)
  • Ginette Truchon (IRSST)
  • Kevin Wilkinson (Université de Montréal)
  • Gilles L'Espérance (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Petros Koutrakis (Harvard School of Public Health)
  • Yves Cloutier (IRSST)
  • Chantal Dion (IRSST)