Abstract
The aim of this study is to determine the usability of electron microscopy to assess the inhalation exposure and extract morphological information otherwise unobtainable. Generated graphite particles in the size range of 20–150 nm were used as test aerosol and were analyzed by scanning mobility particle spectrometer and collected on membrane filters for scanning electron microscopy analysis. Observations revealed large discrepancies between electromobility diameter and diameter obtained from SEM analysis, as well as changes in particles’ morphology. Particles have been quantitatively analyzed and grouped based on their morphological parameters such as solidity and circularity. This proves the feasibility of electron microscopy a complementary technique to real-time spectroscopy measurements, as it allows the identification of nano-objects with a detailed stereological description.
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Acknowledgements
This paper has been based on the results of a research task carried out within the fifth stage of the National Programme “Improvement of safety and working conditions” partly supported in 2021–2022—within the scope of state services—by the Minister responsible for labour (task no. 2.SP.13 entitled “Development of nano-objects sampling method and their analysis using advanced imaging techniques”). The Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute is the Programme’s main co-ordinator.
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Kozikowski, P., Sobiech, P. Comparison of nanoparticles’ characteristic parameters derived from SEM and SMPS analyses. J Nanopart Res 24, 113 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-022-05480-w
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-022-05480-w