A desk study commissioned by the European Union Observatory for Nanomaterials (EUON) gives study research on the current level of knowledge of Nanomaterials’ (bio)degradation, persistence, and safe by design (SbD).
As the quantity and complexity of nanomaterials grow, it is necessary to consider how these nanomaterials will behave in the human body and environment. A recent study commissioned by the European Union Observatory for Nanoparticles (EUON) sought to provide information on the state of the art, the current gaps, and the research requirements for the (bio)degradation and persistence of nanomaterials and their associated organic coatings. Another purpose of the research was to investigate the present state of the art for safe by design (SbD) nanomaterials in terms of degradation and persistence.
The study reveals that research in the area of (bio)degradation of nanoparticles focuses mostly on carbon-based and organic nanomaterials, many of which are more readily decomposed than inorganic nanomaterials, despite the fact that many organic nanomaterials are also quite persistent. Certain organic nanoparticles (e.g., biopolymers, lipids) are the most easily degradable, while carbon-based nanomaterials are the most durable in vivo.
According to the research, a majority of the test recommendations used to examine the degradation and persistence of chemicals have also been applied to nanomaterials, with or without changes. Enzymatic degradation is the most researched method of degradation, despite the fact that a variety of approaches have been used. This indicates, according to the paper, that a possible research void exists in the study of cellular and bacterial breakdown.
According to the study, a great deal of research is being conducted on SbD nanomaterials throughout Europe and across the world. Concerning the definition of “safe-by-design” nanomaterials, there is a lack of unanimity. This is mostly owing to the ambiguity of the word safety, but also because of the singular character of nanomaterials and their diverse properties, which vary greatly between nanomaterial kinds.
The research reveals that SbD techniques for nanomaterials have previously been suggested. There are other sectors, such as nanomedicine, in which SbD is more developed owing to special needs. Of relevance is the notion of’safe-by-degradation,’ which applies the concept of optimum nanomaterial lifetime to SbD, including its safe removal from the body and environment. And in the case of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), it has been thought that shortening their length makes them less dangerous, but this can’t get rid of all of their harmful effects.
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