Phase 2.5 to Workshop on Methods Development for Measuring Release of MWCNT from Polymer Matrices

NanoRelease is working to advance our understanding of measurement methods for the release of nanomaterials from solid matrices used in commercial products. The project is a public private partnership[1] governed by a multi-stakeholder steering group. In Phase 2.5 of the NanoRelease Project, three expert Task Groups and the State of the Science Team collected and analyzed the breadth and depth of past, current, and ongoing research on multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) release from polymer composites and evaluated what is known and unknown in comparison to three Task Group White Papers and State of the Science documents. The Phase 2.5 Report assesses the overlaps, strengths, gaps, and recommendations for the Methods Development Work Plan for implementation in Phase 3 Interlaboratory Studies.

This workshop sought to discuss and evaluate the current methodology available to measure release of MWCNT embedded in polymer composites from machining, weathering, and abrasion release scenarios, as summarized in the Phase 2.5 Report. Workshop participants included active members of the MWCNT-polymer study teams and related project experts. Outcomes of the Phase 2.5 Workshop will aid in designing a Methods Development Work Plan for implementation in Phase 3 Interlaboratory Studies. These efforts will provide critical information regarding standardization of release measurement methods to determine consumer and occupational exposure to MWCNTs in polymer composites and aid safety assessments of commercial products containing nanomaterials.