Abstract
This chapter overviews nanomaterial and nanocomposite classification together with the main aspects of their toxicity. The classification of nanoparticles and nanofibers according to their size, composition, and aspect ratio together with exemplified electron microscopy images facilitates understanding the role of nanoparticles in determining the properties of a nanocomposite. Nanocomposites themselves encompass a very broad category of materials. The classification of nanocomposites according to the dimensionality of their component phases shows the existence of two main categories of materials: those having a matrix phase at macroscale and a filler at nanoscale or both matrix and filler at nanoscale, such as core–shell nanoparticles or decorated fibers. Nanocomposites are shown to release fragments during their manufacturing, use, and disposal. Cutting, drilling, and sanding of nanocomposite pose an occupational exposure risk to workers. Thermal and mechanical stress, photodegradation, interaction with liquids, and incineration processes are all shown to result in the release of fragments at nano- and microscale. The released nanoparticles and nanofibers that are airborne are potentially toxic due to the possibility of inhalation. Their toxicity resides in the ability of nanoparticles to be pervasive, bypass organisms’ defense systems, travel through the pores of fenestrated tissues, become systemic, enter cells, and disrupt cellular processes leading to a gamut of diseases. In order to create safe nanocomposites, it is important to determine the types of nanomaterials that pose a health risk and to limit their use or mitigate their toxicity.
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Pacheco, I., Buzea, C. (2021). Nanomaterials and Nanocomposites: Classification and Toxicity. In: Kharissova, O.V., Torres-Martínez, L.M., Kharisov, B.I. (eds) Handbook of Nanomaterials and Nanocomposites for Energy and Environmental Applications. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36268-3_1
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