Summary
Concept: NanoFATE has been conceived to fill knowledge and methodological gaps currently impeding sound assessment of environmental risks posed by engineered nanoparticles (ENPs). Our vision is to assess environmental ENP fate and risk in example high-volume products for which recycling is not an option, namely fuel additive, personal care and antibacterial products. Two market ENPs from each product type (CeO2, ZnO, Ag, of varying size, surface and core chemistries) will be studied through their post-production life cycles i.e. from environmental entry as “spent product”, through waste treatment to their final fates and potential toxic effects. This will test the applicability of current fate and risk assessment methods and identify improvements required for assessment of ENPs at an early stage. Methodology: The work plan is designed to deliver research and progress beyond the state-of-the-art. While some objectives are focused in single WPs, other are cross-cutting, so ensuring the integration of the workplan to support delivery of novel ENP risk quantification methods. Impact: NanoFATE will provide robust tools, techniques and knowledge needed by stakeholders to understand and communicate risks associated with ENPs of different physical or chemical properties, including their environmental interactions and toxicity.
