Safety system for the production of carbon nanoparticles on a laboratory scale

Abstract

Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) are among the most extensively used nanoparticles, because of their unique and superior properties. However, many of the properties that make CNPs so useful can also make them toxic to cells and organisms and, therefore, they should be treated with caution. The Center for Technological Applications and Nuclear Development (CEADEN) is currently carrying out a research program that includes synthesis of CNPs using submerged arc discharge in water. This article describes the nanosafety system implemented in the laboratories of CEDAEN to promote the best practices with CNPs. This system has been based on a prior safety analysis. The ‘What if’ method was used in combination with decision tree analysis to classify laboratories according to relative danger levels, so-called biological safety levels. The significantly important dangers were identified. Risk assessment of these dangers was undertaken using a Probability/Consequence matrix that reflected the risk associated with each of the events analyzed, which were then classified into three categories of high, medium and low risk. Finally, the protective, technical and organizational measures defined from the risk analysis were implemented in the form of safety procedures.