Efficiency of protective dermal equipment against silver nanoparticles with water aerosol

Protective dermal equipment (PDE) should be provided for protecting against the penetration of nanomaterials into the skin in the workplace. It is important that workers utilize appropriate PDE with characteristics to accomplish this. During the liquid-phase process, nanomaterials are released with water aerosol, which can easily affect the health of workers. The efficiency of PDE in protecting workers against silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) aerosolized with water aerosol was evaluated. The rate of penetration of AgNPs with water aerosol through cleanroom wear was faster than that for a lab coat. This can be attributed to differences in the filling rate of water, as the result of differences in capillary force. Therefore, humidity appears to be a major factor in the rate of penetration of nanomaterials in the presence of water aerosol. Although no penetration was observed when disposable protective gloves were observed, the presence of AgNPs on the surface of gloves was clearly found. Based on these findings, recommendations for the safe use of PDE can now be made.