NIOSH’s Current Intelligence Bulletin reviews toxicological evidence for carbon nanotubes and nanofibers, proposes a respirable elemental-carbon REL of 1 microgram per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA, and states that the REL is intended to reduce pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis while chronic effects remain uncertain.
Source: CDC/NIOSH: Current Intelligence Bulletin 65 — Occupational Exposure to Carbon Nanotubes and Nanofibers ↗Dust entry
Carbon nanotube and nanofiber aerosol
Airborne engineered carbon nanotubes and nanofibers generated during manufacturing, handling, or processing.
Airborne form
dust
The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.
Health effects
pulmonary inflammationpulmonary fibrosis riskrespiratory disease concernpossible chronic health effects
Evidence
Controls
- closed handling
- local exhaust ventilation
- exposure monitoring
- medical surveillance
- appropriate respiratory protection