EVALUATION OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO TIO2 NANOPARTICLES: MICROWAVE-ASSISTED ACID DIGESTION METHOD ON AIR MEMBRANE FILTERS

• Published in: Journal of Health and Translational Medicine
• Main Author: Jamen S.; Mohd Aris M.S.; Shamsul Harumain Z.A.; Zahaba M.; Danial W.H.; Abdul Hadi H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya 2023
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85174019033&doi=10.22452%2fjummec.sp2023no2.39&partnerID=40&md5=b492305c8d72a6da11d659d833b592d3

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have been extensively used in various industrial sectors and applications, including cosmetics, catalysts, food additives, inks, paints, and coatings. However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified TiO2 nanoparticles as a potential carcinogen for humans, meaning they may cause cancer and pose serious health complications, particularly for manufacturing workers. This highlights the need for better evaluation to determine worker exposure. In this study, suspended TiO2 nanoparticles were sampled using a nanoparticle respiratory deposition (NRD) sampler fitted with specially designed membrane filters and analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The digestion method used for titanium element recovery after nanoparticle sampling is crucial for optimal ICP-MS analysis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the most suitable digestion method. A microwave-acid digestion method using concentrated nitric acid and concentrated hydrochloric acid at a 7:4 ratio, with a run time of 30 minutes and the temperature set to 200°C showed remarkable titanium recovery compared to other methods. These findings may pave the way for optimal analysis of suspended TiO2 nanoparticles in assessing occupational exposure while promoting sustainability and eco-friendliness in resource utilization. © 2023, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. All rights reserved.