nanotechPublicationFINAL.indd 1 

_ Office of Research and Development
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Nanomaterial Research Strateg

Office of Research and Development 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

Washington, D.C. 
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Thomas Holdsworth, NRMRL 

Keith Houck, NCCT 

Elaine Hubal, NCCT 

Barb Walton, NHEERL 

Eric Weber, NERL 

 

Peer Review 

ORD Science Council, August 2007
 

EPA Science Policy Council Steering Committee, September, 2007 

External Peer Review March, 2008
 

External Letter Review, November 2008
 
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 4.1.1.1 Background/ Program Relevance..........................................................................

 4.1.1.2 Research Activities ................................................................................................

 4.1.1.3 Anticipated Outcomes ...........................................................................................

4.1.2 Key Science Question 2...................................................................................................

 4.1.2.1 Background/Program Relevance...........................................................................

 4.1.2.2 Research Activities ................................................................................................

 4.1.2.3 Anticipated Outcomes ...........................................................................................

4.1.3 Key Science Question 3...................................................................................................

 4.1.3.1 Background/ Program Relevance..........................................................................

 4.1.3.2 Research Activities ................................................................................................

 4.1.3.3 Anticipated Outcomes ...........................................................................................

4.2 Research Theme: Human Health and Ecological Effects Research
 

to Inform Risk Assessments and Test Methods ........................................................................

4.2.1 Background and Program Relevance...............................................................................

4.2.2 Key Science Question 4...................................................................................................

 4.2.2.1 Human Health Effects Research Activities ...........................................................

4.2.3 Key Science Question 5...................................................................................................

 4.2.3.1 Ecological Effects Research Activities ..................................................................

 4.2.4 Anticipated Outcomes ......................................................................................................

4.3 Research Theme: Developing Risk Assessment Methods ........................................................

4.3.1 Key Science Question 6...................................................................................................

4.3.2 Background/Program Relevance .....................................................................................

 4.3.3 Research Activities ..........................................................................................................

 4.3.4 Anticipated Outcomes ......................................................................................................

4.4 Research Theme: Preventing and Managing Risks.................................................................. 

4.4.1 Key Science Question 7...................................................................................................

 4.4.1.1 Background/Program Relevance ...........................................................................

 4.4.1.2 Research Activities ................................................................................................

 4.4.1.3 Anticipated Outcomes ............................................................................................

4.4.2 Key Science Question 8 .........................................................................................................

 4.4.2.1 Reserach Activities ................................................................................................

 4.4.2.2 Anticipated Outcomes ............................................................................................

5. Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................

References.......................................................................................................................................
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Decisions; Based on Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (Davis and Thomas, 2006) 

Figure 4-1 Critical Path for Research on Detection – Key Science Question 1 .............................

Figure 4-2 Critical Path for Research on Sources, Fate, and Transport–Key Science Question 2 .

Figure 4-3 Critical Path for Research on Exposure Pathways – Key Science Question 3 .............

Figure 4-4 An Integrated Testing Strategy for ORD’s Nanomaterials Health Effects

 Research...................................................................................................................................

Figure 4-5 Critical Path for Conducting ORD’s Nanomaterial Human Health Effects Research – 

Key Science Question 4 ...........................................................................................................

Figure 4-6 Critical Path for Conducting ORD’s Nanomaterial Human Health Effects Research – 

Key Science Question 5 ...........................................................................................................

Figure 4-7 Critical Path for Risk Assessment Research – Key Science Question 6 .......................

Figure 4-8 Characterization of a Selected Nanotechnology for Life Cycle Assessment ................

Figure 4-9 Research Theme: Preventing and Mitigating Risk Methods –
 

Key Science Questions 7 & 8 ..................................................................................................

List of Tables 

Table 4-1 Models/Tools to Conduct Chemical Exposure Assessments .........................................

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foundation of scientific needs identified by the Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implication

Working Group (NSTC, 2008), and in the EPA’s 

Nanotechnology White Paper (EPA, 2007). 

The purpose of EPA’s nanotechnology research 

program is to conduct focused research to 

inform nanomaterial safety decisions that may 

be made under the various environmental statutes for which EPA is responsible. EPA recognizes that th

information generated through its research program 

is also likely to have use in areas beyond the Agency’s purview. EPA will collaborate across the 

government, industry, and the international community to implement this strategy. EPA’s in-house 

research program will leverage results from EPA grant programs, as well as collaborate with grantees t

address the many challenging research issues outlined in this strategy. 

EPA’s strategy focuses on four areas that take advantage of EPA’s scientific expertise as well as fi ll gap

not addressed by other organizations. The four research themes are: 

 Identifying sources, fate, transport, and exposure 

 Understanding human health and ecological effects to inform risk assessments and test method

 Developing risk assessment approaches 

 Preventing and mitigating risks 

EPA’s Nanomaterial Research Program is designed to provide information to support nanomaterial safe

decisions. The eight key science questions described in the strategy are intended to help decision make

answer the following questions: 

 What nanomaterials, in what forms, are most likely to result in environmental exposure? 

 What particular nanomaterial properties may raise toxicity concerns? 

 Are nanomaterials with these properties likely to be present in environmental media or biologi

systems at concentrations of concern, and what does this mean for risk? 

 If we think that the answer to the previous question is “yes,” can we change properties or mitig

exposure? 

Providing information to answer these questions will serve the public by enabling decisions that 

minimize potential averse environmental impacts, and thereby maximize the net societal benefit from t

development and use of manufactured nanomaterials. 

The Nanomaterial Research Strategy (NRS) guides 

the nanotechnology research program within EPA’s 

Office of Research and Development.
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CT Committee on Technology 

DAA Deputy Assistant Administrator 

DOD Department of Defense 

DOE Department of Energy 

DSSTOX Distributed Structure-Searchable Toxicity 

HPG Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal 

IRIS Integrated Risk Information System 

LCA Life cycle Analysis 

MOA Mechanism of action 

MOAS Modes of Action 

MR-CAT Materials Research Collaborative Access Team 

MYP Multi-year plan 

NAS National Academy of Science 

NCCT National Center for Computational Toxicology 

NCEA National Center for Environmental Assessment 

NCER National Center for Environmental Research 

NCI National Cancer Institute 

NCL Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory 

NEHIWG Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications Working Group 

NERL National Exposure Research Laboratory 

NHEERL National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory 

NGO Non-Governmental Organization 

NIEHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 

NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology 

NNCO National Nanotechnology Coordination Office 

NNI National Nanotechnology Initiative 

NPDS National Program Directors 

NRC National Research Council 

NRMRL National Risk Management Research Laboratory 

NRS Nanomaterial Research Strategy 

NSET Nanoscale Science Engineering and Technology 

NSF National Science Foundation 

NSTC National Science and Technology Council 

OECD Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development 

ORD Office of Research Development 
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how nanotechnology can be used sustainably in 

environmental protection applications. EPA has 

written this document with three main purposes: 

(1) to guide its own researchers and managers 

as they conduct EPA’s research program, (2) to 

assist scientists in other organizations as they plan 

research programs, and (3) to inform the public of 

how EPA intends to generate scientifi c information 

to guide environmental decisions related to 

nanomaterials. 

The purpose of EPA’s research program is to 

conduct focused research to address risk assessment 

and risk management needs for nanomaterials 

in support of the various environmental statutes 

for which EPA is responsible. This program will 

be coordinated with research conducted by other 

federal agencies, where EPA will lead selected 

research areas and coordinate and/or collaborate 

information for nanomaterial decision suppo

Because other entities also conduct research 

nanomaterial safety, EPA is focusing on four 

areas that take advantage of EPA’s scientific 

expertise as well as fill gaps not addressed b

organizations. The four research themes are: 

 Identifying sources, fate, transport, a

exposure 

 Understanding human health and eco

effects to inform risk assessments an

methods 

 Developing risk assessment approac

 Preventing and mitigating risks 

In addressing these themes, EPA’s research p

will focus on providing information that sup

the type of decision logic outlined below in F

1-1. 

Figure 1.1. Nanomaterials and Environmental Decision Making: Key Decision-Support Questions 

What NMs, in what forms, are 

most likely to result in 

environmental exposure? 

What particular NM properties 

may raise toxicity concerns? 

Are NMs with these properties 

likely to be present in 

environmental media or 

biological systems at

concentrations of concern? 

If “yes,” can we change 

properties or mitigate 

exposure? 
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products and as it is disposed of or recycled. activities are identified along critical paths to

addressing science questions. 

2 
 

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of nanomaterials is large and growing, for the 

purposes of placing the NRS within a larger context 

there are four major efforts underway: 

 Organization for Economic Cooperation 

and Development (OECD) Working Party 

on Manufactured Nanomaterials. The 

OECD is coordinating a testing program on 

nanomaterials deemed by the Working Party 

to be representative of materials likely to enter 

commerce. Test plans are to be completed in 

mid-2009, with Phase 1 testing to be completed 

in approximately three years. 

implementing the interagency strategy. While 

coordinating agencies will play a leadership ro

in advancing interagency implementation of th

NNI strategy, other agencies may play scientifi

leadership roles in particular areas. 

 EPA NRS. The NRS was developed in concert 

with the NNI strategy. 

 EPA Nanomaterial Stewardship Program 

(NMSP). EPA’s office of Pollution Prevention 

and Toxic Substances has initiated a program 

for the voluntary submission of nanomaterials 

Figure 2-1. Roles of NEHI Working Group Member Agencies with Regard 

to Nanotechnology –Related EHS Research Needs 

Table 2. Roles of NEHI Working Group Member Agencies with Regard 

to Nanotechnology-Related EHS Research Needs 

- Coordinating agency - Contributor - User 

All coordinating agencies have roles as contributors to and users of the research from the respective 

categories, with the exception of FDA, which as the roles of coordinating agency and user. Research Need

Agency 

Instrumentation, Metrology,and Analytical MethodsNanomaterials and HumanHealthNanomaterials and theEnvironmentHuman & EnvironmentalExposure AssessmentRisk Management Methods

*NSF is a contributor according to the mission of the agency covering the upstream, fundamental 

research on utilization, implications, and risk mitigation of nanotechnology, infrastructure and education. 

NIH 

NIST 

EPA 

FDA 

NIOSH 

NSF 

DOD 

DOE 

USDA 

DOT 

OSHA 

CPSC 

USGS 

* * * * * 
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information. 

EPA is using several approaches to link the NRS 

to other efforts to develop scientific information in 

support of decision making. They include: 

 Coordinating and collaborating with 

other federal agencies. As shown in 

Figure 2-1, EPA is the federal government’s 

Health Sciences (NIEHS), and the Nationa

Institute for Occupational Safety and 

Health (NIOSH). EPA’s laboratories are 

also coordinating and collaborating with 

other agencies, such as with the National 

Toxicology Program and NIOSH on carbo

nanotubes. Also, EPA is co-sponsoring 

with NSF new national Centers for the 

Environmental Implications of Nanomater

Figure 2-2. Federal Sources to Inform EPA’s Nanotechnology Activities 

Applications 

Understanding Nanotechnology 

E P A 

Research 

Risk assessment 

Risk management 

Sustainability 

Stewardship 

Pollution 

Prevention 

Green manufacturing 

Green En gineering 

Green Energy 

EPA 

DOD 

DOE 

Remediation 

EPA 

DHS 

DOD 

NASA 

NSF 

Sensors, Devices 

DHS 

DOD 

DOE 

EPA 

NASA 

NIH 

NIOSH 

NIST 

NSF 

USDA 

USGS 

Characterization, 

Properties 

DOD 

DOE 

EPA 

NASA 

NIH 

NIST 

NSF 

Instrumentation, 

Metrology, 

Standards 

DOD 

DOE 

NASA 

NIH 

NIST 

NSF 

Implication

Toxicity 

DOD 

EPA 

FDA 

NIH 

NIOSH 

NSF 

Fate, Transport, 

Transformation, 

Release, 

Treatment 

DOD 

DOE 

EPA 

NIH 

NIOSH 

NSF 

Detection, 

Monitoring 

DOD 

EPA 

NIH 

NIOSH 

NSF 

USGS 

Note: NIH includes NIEHS , NCI (NCL), NTP 

4 
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EPA 

NEHI “Bi-lateral” 

OECD Testing Program 

Industry-sponsored Testing 

Health and Environmental 

Decisions 

Academic Research 

(CEINT) to conduct fundamental research 

and education on the implications of 

nanotechnology for the environment and 

living systems at all scales. The CEINTs will 

address interactions of naturally derived, 

incidental and manufactured nanomaterials 

with the living world. 

 Participating in the OECD Testing 

Program. In implementing the NRS, 

EPA is co-sponsoring testing on a number 

of nanomaterials. EPA researchers will 

divide testing responsibilities and share 

test materials with the co-sponsoring 

organizations. 

 Nanomaterial Stewardship Program. 

EPA believes that the NMSP will provide 

material-specific and general information 

that will be useful to advancing EPA’s 

research program. Also, ORD researchers 

are collaborating with OPPT on identifying 

information gaps that the NMSP can address. 

Figure 2-2 depicts how EPA fits within the larger 

information-gathering context to support decisions 

related to nanomaterials and the environment. 

Integration. Successfully implementing the NRS 

within a larger scientific context will require EPA t

integrate into its research program information fro

various sources. EPA is using the following means 

enable such integration: 

 Supporting and using the OECD’s 

international database on nanomaterial 

environmental, health, and safety research

 Holding joint meetings with EPA research

and STAR grantees. 

 Convening state-of-the-science workshops 

on each of the four NRS research themes. 

 Leading and participating in NNI-sponsore

workshops as part of implementing the 

interagency strategy. 
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the program is important, given resource limitations 

and acknowledging that the NRS fits within and should 

complement a larger national and international context 

of nanomaterial EHS research. 

3.1 Selection of Materials 

ORD is focusing its research on seven manufactured 

nanomaterial types: single-walled carbon nanotubes, 

multi-walled carbon nanotubes, fullerenes, cerium 

oxide, silver, titanium dioxide, zero-valent iron. 

Ultimately, ORD has as a goal, the development of 

predictive models and tools that will enable testing 

across these material types, since testing the many 

potential variations of materials within each of these 

seven material types would be very resource intensive. 

ORD selected these seven material types based on 

the materials’ current use in products, the near-term 

needs of EPA’s program and regional offi ces, research 

underway at other federal agencies, and the materials 

selected for testing in the OECD’s Working Party on 

Manufactured Nanomaterials. Over time, ORD expects 

to extend its efforts to other material types. 

These materials are of interest to EPA either because of 

their potential use in cleaning up pollution (zero-valent 

The United States, with EPA as a principal 

participant, is sponsoring or co-sponsoring t

testing of all of the seven materials as part o

the OECD’s nanomaterial testing program. I

particular, EPA is taking leadership roles in 

testing of cerium, C-60 fullerenes, nanotube

silver, and titanium dioxide. This program a

the ORD to leverage the work of other natio

and organizations in advancing the Nanoma

Research Strategy. For example, for the carb

materials Japan, Korea, and industry are con

mammalian toxicity testing, while EPA will 

environmental fate and ecological effects te

Thus, the partnership for these materials cov

the endpoints under the OECD program. 

There is no question that the types of, and 

variations on, nanomaterials is large and gro

and goes beyond the materials ORD has cho

for near-term study. However, these seven m

types are a good starting point for the new O

program, which will evolve together with st

nanoscience and as environmental decision-

needs change. 

Figure 3-1. Relative Priority of Research Themes 

NRS Research Themes 

Sources, Fate, Transport, and Exposure 

Human Health and Ecological Effects Research to Inform Risk Assessment and Test Methods 

Risk Assessment Methods and Case Studies 

Preventing and Mitigating Risks 
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g, , 

or must be developed to detect and quantify 

manufactured nanomaterials in environmental 

media and biological samples? 

 What are the major processes and/or 

properties that govern the environmental fate, 

transport, and transformation of manufactured 

nanomaterials, and how are these related to 

 What are the ecological effects of 

manufactured nanomaterials and the

applications, and how can these effe

quantified and predicted? 

Theme 3. Risk Assessment Methods and Case 

Studies. In what ways, if at all, do risk assess

approaches need to be amended to incorpora

characteristics of manufactured nanomateria

Figure 3-2 Relationship of Key Science Questions to Support Risk Assessment and Management Decisions; Ba

Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (Davis and Thomas, 2006) 

Life Cycle Stages 

Environmental Pathways 

Transport & Transformation 

Exposure (Biota/Human) 

Risk Assessment 

Risk Manageme

Effects 

Feedstocks 

Manufacture 

Distribtuion 

Storage 

Use 

Disposal 

Air 

Water 

Soil 

Food 

Web 

Inhalation 

Ingestion 

Dermal 

absorption 

Primary 

contaminants 

Secondary 

contaminants 

Ecosystems 

Health 

Risk 

Characterization 

Quantitative 

Qualitative 

Technology

Evaluation 

Verification 

Modeling 

Cost 

Analyses 

Process 

Modifications 

Adaptation/

Revitalization/

Restoration/

Remediation 

Analytical Detection Method Development 

8 
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3.3. Informing Risk Assessment and Risk 

Management 

Figure 3-2 illustrates the interrelationship of the 

research activities and research products that inform 

risk assessment and risk management issues. While 

the basic paradigms of health and ecological risk 

assessment are still relevant, they are expanded in 

the comprehensive environmental assessment (CEA) 

approach to encompass the product life cycle of 

nanomaterials. By taking a broad view of the potential 

for releases of both primary and secondary materials 

to multiple environmental media, the evaluation of 

the environmental and health risks of nanomaterials 

is seen as an issue that cuts across EPA programmatic 

domains and is not simply categorized as solely an 

air, water, toxics, or solid waste issue. The CEA 

approach (Davis and Thomas, 2006; Davis, 2007) 

starts with a qualitative life cycle framework. It takes 

into consideration multiple environmental pathways, 

transport and transformation processes, cumulative 

and aggregate exposure by various routes, and 

ecological as well as human health effects. Depending 

on the availability of data, both quantitative and 

qualitative characterizations of risks may result. 

However, given the limited information currently 

available on nanomaterials, the CEA approach is being 

used to identify where key data gaps exist with respect 

to selected case studies of specific applications of 

nanomaterials. 

3.4 Prioritization of Research 

ORD evaluated several key issues and activities to 

identify priorities for its research program. Research 

recommendations from the EPA Nanotechnology 

White Paper and research coordination leadership 

in the NNI Strategy (2008) were important 

considerations. Defining questions for establishing 

priorities were: 

 What research is important to suppor

risk assessment and management act

 How do partnerships with federal, ac

and industry researchers enhance res

activities? 

Having considered these questions within the 

context of resource constraints and research b

conducted by other organizations, ORD has f

its nanotechnology research program on the a

described in Section 4 of this strategy. 

3.5 Implementation 

The research described in this NRS will be 

implemented through multi-year plans (MYP

Office of Research and Development’s resear

multi-year plans present the long-term strateg

vision of EPA’s research programs. The MYP

as a planning and communication tool to des

the scope of research addressing EPA’s priori

science questions. The MYPs are also used to 

(1) demonstrate how ORD’s research program

contribute to Agency outcomes and strategic 

provide information to aid in and support dec

during budget formulation; and (3) assist in m

performance and accountability reporting. 

ORD is forming a Nanomaterial Research 

Coordination Team, which is a cross-EPA res

planning group, to communicate program offi 

regional research needs to ORD and for ORD 

communicate its research activities and produ

the strategic research themes. This approach 

ORD’s focus on the highest priority issues an

provides a roadmap to achieving long-term r

goals while allowing the flexibility for ORD 

emerging nanotechnology issues that are affe

specific programmatic areas. 
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4.1.1.1 Background/ Program Relevance 

The detection of manufactured nanomaterials in 

various environmental media presents a significant 

challenge. This is due in part to potential confounding 

by the presence of anthropogenic and natural 

nanomaterials. Challenges arise because many 

different manufactured nanomaterials currently 

exist and their numbers are increasing; for certain 

types of nanomaterials, such as nanotubes, many 

thousands of different structures are possible. In 

addition, the fate, transformation, and mobility of 

these materials are only beginning to be understood. 

Consequently, scientific understanding of the 

reactions these materials undergo, how they age in 

various environmental media, how they interact with 

other compounds present in the environment, and 

whether and to what extent they form agglomerates 

or aggregates is limited. These issues compound the 

complexity of detecting and quantifying nanomaterials 

in environmental media. 

The development of effective methods for measuring 

manufactured nanomaterials in environmental media at 

concentrations relevant to potential exposure scenarios 

is critical to understanding the environmental impacts 

of these materials. Such methods would also enable 

the more rapid achievement of the safe development 

of nanotechnology-related products. ORD-sponsored 

research will ultimately seek to develop remote, in 

situ, and continuous monitoring devices that yield 

real-time information and that can detect manufactured 

nanomaterials at very low concentrations. 

Risk assessments of nanomaterials will require the 

ability to measure their environmental concentration in 

the workplace, home, biota (including human tissues), 

and ecosystems of interest. Analytical methods needed 

to characterize and analyze nanomaterials will require 

ypg

environmental systems. Obviously, studies w

necessary to determine how such tagging tec

will alter the physciochemical properties of t

nanomaterials. ORD will integrate fundamen

research on detection method development fr

NIST, DoD, and others with its own focused 

research effort to inform this research questio

4.1.1.2 Research Activities 

Measurement science (based on analytical ch

and physical properties) will have multiple ro

nanomaterials assessment and will require di

types of analytical methods. There are severa

areas of investigation with nanomaterials tha

the application of a wide array of measureme

characterization techniques for characterizati

detection, identification, or quantification. 

Characterization of nanomaterials: ORD w

undertake studies to characterize the physica

chemical properties of bulk nanomaterials to 

and quantify their unique features and charac

(e.g., surface-to-volume ratio, 3-dimensional 

size, size distribution, relative dimensions (a

ratio), chirality, electrical/magnetic propertie

microstructure). Access to the equipment nee

these studies will require the formation of pa

with other federal agencies, such as the Natio

Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST

National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Dep

of Energy (DOE). Each of these agencies has 

in the process of establishing nanomaterial re

facilities, such as the Advanced Measuremen

Laboratory (AML) at NIST and the Nanotech

Characterization Laboratory (NCL) at NCI. T

research facilities provide access to a wide v

measurement and characterization tools. 
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based nanotubes, and the analysis of quantum dots by 

fl uorescence spectroscopy. 

Detection in environmental matrices: The published 

literature on the use of existing analytical tools for 

detecting or monitoring manufactured nanomaterials 

in the environment (especially in matrices other than 

the vapor phase) is very limited. Perhaps the first 

publication that borders on being a review of this 

literature is that of Nowack and Bucheli (2007). The 

lack of methodologies for analyzing environmental 

samples likely results from two major factors: (1) 

only in the last couple of years has any need for 

environmental analysis been contemplated, and (2) the 

challenges facing the detection and quantifi cation of 

manufactured nanomaterials (especially those based 

solely on carbon) in environmental samples far exceed 

those associated with conventional pollutants, even 

those pollutants that comprise complex mixtures of 

many congeners (e.g., toxaphene). 

To make unambiguous and quantitative determinations 

of manufactured nanomaterials in environmental 

samples, ORD will develop a combination of ensemble 

techniques (e.g., hyphenated methods coupling 

separation with spectroscopic detection, that measure 

collectively a number of particles) and single-particle 

techniques (e.g., methods, such as imaging, that 

measure individual particles). The separation method 

employed may be size exclusion chromatography, 

sedimentation field flow fractionation, or capillary 

electrophoresis. Determination could then be 

made, for example, by the coupling of ICPMS 

or a spectrofl uorometer for fl uorescent quantum 

dots. Ensemble methods can be developed for at 

least some classes of nanomaterials that provide 

screening assays to confirm the absence of detectable 

levels of nanomaterials or to provide an upper limit 

concentration estimate. 

entire spectrum of parent materials must be a

to analysis). The problems that traditionally 

environmental analysis, such as the wide arra

matrix interferences that limit detectability, m

environmental monitoring of nanomaterials e

challenging. Examples of this type of applica

not yet exist, and are an additional research n

suitable analytical methods have been develo

the laboratory, sites will be selected for mon

of various media (i.e., air, water, soil, sedime

sludge) where environmental concentrations 

be expected to be greatest, such as productio

for nanomaterials and manufacturing sites of 

containing nanomaterials. 

4.1.1.3 Anticipated Outcomes 

 Development of methods for charact

nanomaterials, through partnerships 

NIST, NCI and/or DOE 

 Development of analytical methods 

detection of carbon-based nanomate

environmental matrices 

 Development of analytical methods 

detection of non-carbon-based nanom

in environmental matrices 

 In cooperation with other federal age

development of standardized test ma

for a variety of representative enviro

matrices 

12 
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2010 Extend multimedia 

modeling capabilities to 

Develop methods for address NM exposure and 

measuring selected NM in risk issues/applications 

environmental matrices 

2011 

Evaluate physical and chemical 

properties that influence exposure to 

nanomaterials in environmental media. 2013 

Provide approaches for detection 

of NM in the environmental 

media 

Modified or developed methodologies to detect and quantify NM in 

environmental media and biological samples 

 

4.1.2 Key Science Question 2. What are the 

major processes and/or properties that govern the 

environmental fate, transport, and transformation 

of manufactured nanomaterials, and how are these 

related to the physical and chemical properties of 

those materials? 

4.1.2.1 Background/Program Relevance 

Given the current scientific uncertainty surrounding 

fate, transport, detection and modeling of manufactured 

nanomaterials, it is difficult to accurately assess the 

environmental disposition of nanomaterials or the 

potential exposure pathways to human and e

receptors. Ultimately predictive models for e

the environmental fate and transport of nano

are needed. 

Nanotechnology research for fate, transport, 

and modeling of manufactured nanomaterial

needed to identify the most critical paramete

uncertainties associated with these materials

research will characterize the environmental 

and transport (EF&T) of nanomaterials from 

to human and ecological receptors. The rese
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identified analytical techniques. Finally, existing 

predictive models that may be used for nanomaterial 

fate and transport will be modified, and if necessary, 

new models will be developed. These efforts will 

involve collaborations with other federal agencies, 

consortiums, international partners and academia. 

Because of the introduction and increased production 

of nanomaterials, it is necessary to better understand 

the fate, transport, detection and modeling of these 

materials. Quantitative as well as qualitative research 

is necessary to reduce the uncertainty surrounding 

the introduction and existence of nanomaterials in the 

environment and to identify the exposure pathways 

of concern to receptors. Quantitative research such as 

identifying the speciation of silver nano particles and 

the impact of speciation on the mobility of the silver 

particles in sediments as well as the bioavailability 

to surrounding receptors is an example of one 

ORD research project. Qualitative research such 

as assessment of existing chemistry methods for 

measuring nanometal oxides in ambient air is another 

project. Research on these and other issues will assist 

the Agency in risk assessment and risk management 

of engineered nanomaterials. ORD will conduct the 

following broad research activities as described below. 

4.1.2.2 Research Activities 

 Understand the processes that govern the fate 

and transport of manufactured nanomaterials 

 Understand the chemical and physical 

properties of manufactured nanomaterials 

and how they influence fate and transport 

processes 

 Develop predictive models for transport of 

manufactured nanomaterials 

This work will provide the basis for prioritiz

potential ecological exposure pathways that w

further exploration. 

Understand the processes that govern the 

transport of manufactured nanomaterials 

The potential for the occurrence of manufact

in sediments, soils, air and aqueous environm

necessitates the understanding of the process

controlling the fate and transport of these ma

in each of these environmental matrices. The 

unique challenges to understanding the EF&

nanomaterials is based on knowledge that: 

 Nanomaterials exist as particles, and thu

surface chemical and physical properties 

determine their environmental fate and tr

 The chemical and surface properties of 

nanomaterials will be modified by intera

with naturally occurring constituents suc

dissolved organic matter, biota (e.g., bac

biomolecules (e.g., polysaccharides) 

 Changes in surface properties with natur

occurring constituents will significantly a

mobility of nanomaterials in aquatic ecos

The wealth of information currently in the 

environmental literature concerning the fate 

transport of chemical contaminants results fr

the study of chemicals that are soluble to som

extent in aquatic ecosystems. Much of the ex

work will have little value for predicting the 

of nanomaterials. The body of work concerni

the movement and stability of colloidal mate

which range in size from 1 nm to 1 μM, in aq

ecosystems, however, is already providing in

into the processes controlling the transport of 

14 
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sorb or agglomerate in ecosystems; and the factors 

that influence the mobility of the nanomaterials. ORD 

has also identified research questions surrounding 

the impact of nanomaterials in groundwater, surface 

water, drinking water, wastewater and solid waste. In 

addition to laboratory studies, ORD will collect data 

from field systems to understand large-scale fate and 

transport processes and the factors that infl uence them. 

Understand the physical and chemical properties 

of manufactured nanomaterials and how they 

influence fate and transport processes 

Processes that control movement (i.e., sorption, 

dispersion, agglomeration, degradation) will be 

strongly affected by the chemical and physical 

properties of nanomaterials, such as surface charge, 

pH, ionic strength, redox conditions, and ambient 

air conditions such as temperature and humidity. 

Consequently, typical chemical parameters for 

predicting chemical fate and transport such as water 

solubility, octanol-water partition coeffi cient and 

vapor pressure will be substituted with parameters 

such as particle size, surface charge and surface 

potential. Obtaining information on the chemical 

and physical properties of specifi c nanomaterials 

and classes of materials is necessary to understand 

their effect on fate and transport processes. For 

example, a specific ORD research project is 

characterizing the surface reactivity of silver, iron, 

titanium dioxide and cerium oxide and determining 

the impact of this reactivity on mobility and toxicity 

of the nanomaterials. Another example is ORD’s 

investigation of processes controlling the mobility 

of carbon-based nanomaterials in porous media. The 

mobility of these materials largely depends on the 

degree and type of functionalization (elements or other 

functional groups at the surface of the nanostructures), 

which affect solubility and surface charge. 

ORD on nanosilver particles impregnated in 

and washed indicates potential pathways for 

exposure and introduction of nanosilver to th

environment. Silver is impregnated in fabrics 

other materials as an anti-fungal/anti-microbi

but little is known about how the properties o

nanosilver particles impact their fate and tran

in the environment. Initial research indicates 

presence of oxidants in the wash water likely 

the bioavailability of the nanosilver particles

continues to assess the chemical transformati

speciation of inorganics such as silver. 

Develop predictive models for transport of 

manufactured nanomaterials 

The successful development of EF&T model

nanomaterials will depend on understanding 

the processes controlling the EF&T of engine

nanomaterials and the ability to determine th

chemical and physical properties needed to p

such processes. ORD will study the applicab

existing environmental fate and transport mo

and to develop new predictive EF&T models 

tailored specifically to nanomaterials. Early a

of the Estimation Programs Interface Suite (E

Suite) models, the primary set of predictive t

Agency uses for calculating the fate and tran

soluble organic chemicals, indicates that they 

have little or no applicability to predicting th

of nanomaterials. Models do exist for predict

transport of natural colloidal materials and th

being investigated for application to nanoma

As such, traditional DLVO (Derjaguin, Land

Verwey and Overbeek) theory is already lend

insight into environmental fate and mobility 

of nanomaterials (Loux and Savage, 2008). B

colloid models will have to be modified. Liki

modified version of EPA’s MINTEQA2 mod

for calculating metal speciation could provid
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:16 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:16 

 Develop a scientific understanding of the 

processes that govern the fate and transport of 

manufactured nanomaterials 

 Develop multiple predictive models 

understanding and measuring the tran

manufactured nanomaterials 

Figure 4-2 Critical Path for Research on Sources, Fate, and Transport 

Critical Path for Research on Sources, Fate, and Transport 

Key Science Question 2: What are the major processes and/or 

properties that govern the environmental fate, transport, and 

transformation of manufactured nanomaterials, and how are these 

related to the physical and chemical properties of those materials? 

2009 

Provide the underlying science 

on the F&T of NM 

Assess the F&T of NM in 

the aquatic environments 2010 

Determine the properties of NM that effect 2012 

F&T 

Synthesis of physical/chemical properties 

that influence exposure in environmental 

media 

Use F&T NM data to inform 

multimedia transport and 

deposition 

2014 

Determine the major processes/properties that govern the 

environmental fate of NM, and key physical/ chemical properties of 

NM 

16 
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can be linked with other exposure and biological 

impact data to improve the scientific basis of risk 

assessment for manufactured nanomaterials. 

General population exposure may occur from 

environmental releases from the production and use 

of nanomaterials and from direct use of products (e.g., 

cosmetics) containing nanomaterials. The rapid growth 

of products that contain nanomaterials could result 

in their presence in soil and aquatic ecosystems. This 

presence will result from effluents of manufacturing 

plants, and the recycling or disposal of nano-based 

consumer products into landfills and surface/ground 

water. An exposure assessment attempts to answer 

the following questions for a particular substance or 

chemical: 

 Who or what is exposed (e.g., people, 

ecosystems)? 

 What are the pathways for exposure (air, 

water, land)? 

Exposure Assessment Modeling (CEAM: htt

epa.gov/ceampubl/). Table 4-1 provides a list

several of the models/tools used by the progr

for exposure assessment and each model’s ge

application and applicability to nanomaterial

current form. With the exception of the EPI-S

calculators, all of the exposure assessment m

need the user to provide input data on the phy

and chemical properties for the chemical of i

The EPI SuiteTM calculators are based on a si

input, a Simplified Molecular Identification a

Entry System (SMILES) string that is a typo

method for representing unique chemical stru

The other models in Table 1 were developed 

for exposure assessments of synthetic organi

chemicals, and thus require input such as wa

solubility, octanol-water partition coeffi cient

Henry’s Law constants to predict fate and tra

 Several of the primary models/tools used by the Program Offi ces for exposure assessment and each

 model’s general application and applicability to nanomaterials in their current form 

Table 4-1 Models/Tools to Conduct Chemical Exposure 

Acronym Model Name 

Primary 

Program 

Office 

Application Applicab

to NMs 

E-FAST Assessment Screening 

Tool Version 2.0 OPPT 

Estimates concentrations of 

chemicals in multimedia from 

multiple release activities 

Modificat

Required 

EPISuiteTM Estimation Programs 

Interface Suite OPPT Estimates physical & chemical 

properties for organic chemicals Not Appli

EXAMS Exposure Analysis 

Modeling System OPP 

Estimates fate, transport, and 

exposure concentrations of 

chemicals in aquatic ecosystems 

Modificat

Required 

Trim Expo 

Total Risk Integrated 

Methodology 

Exposure-Event Module 

OAQPS 

Estimates human exposure to 

criteria

 and hazardous air pollutants 

Modificat

Required 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:18 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:18 

 Determine whether these inputs are 

appropriate for nanomaterials when assessing 

exposures related to industrial releases to 

surface water, air, and/or landfills 

 Identify other properties as potential inputs 

that might be more appropriate for assessing 

general population and environmental 

exposure to nanomaterials 

The challenges in identifying and measuring the 

concentration of manufactured nanomaterials 

in environmental and biological systems will 

present significant obstacles to providing the data 

necessary to conduct exposure assessments of these 

materials for both ecological and human receptors. 

Such assessments will require the development of 

alternative methods for determining the source and 

the environmental concentrations of nanomaterials 

in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The interest in 

nanomaterials is driven by their unique properties and 

activities at different scales; these same properties 

provide the opportunity for developing indicators 

of exposure by measuring changes in structures and 

functions of biological organisms in contact with 

nanomaterials. By identifying indicators of exposure 

resulting from exposure to nanomaterials, it will 

be possible to reconstruct the exposure pathway 

and ultimately the source and the environmental 

concentration of the nanomaterial of interest. This 

ability to move from an internal biological response 

to external environmental concentration represents 

a growing area of exposure science referred to as 

exposure reconstruction. 

ORD’s research in this area focuses on the linkage 

of responses across endpoints at multiple biological 

adverse effects in individuals to, ultimately, c

population status. The studies employ a comb

of state-of-the-art molecular biology, bioinfo

and modeling approaches, in conjunction wit

animal testing. As such, the project will enab

unique opportunity to interface empirical tox

with computational biology in the exposure a

of nanomaterials. 

The molecular biological tools for this resear

focus on the application of the ‘omic’ tools (i

genomics, proteomics and metabolomics) to 

indicators of exposure. These tools provide th

to identify indicators of exposure by measuri

regulation, protein formation, and changes in 

organism’s metabolome in response to expos

chemical or mixture of chemicals. By elucida

kinetics of the marker’s response, it is also po

provide an understanding of the temporal and 

aspects of exposure. 

Currently, no information is available in the l

concerning the identification of indicators of 

for nanomaterials. However, ongoing researc

with pesticides exhibiting estrogenic activity 

demonstrating the feasibility of this approach

has developed molecular indicators of exposu

(based on genomic responses) of aquatic org

(water flea, Daphnia magna and fathead min

Pimephales promelas) to estrogenic compoun

and is using advanced genomic methods to d

androgenic indicators. The Nuclear Magnetic 

Resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics rese

program being conducted at ORD’s NMR res

facility is demonstrating the use of high-reso

NMR to identify changes in the profiles of en

metabolites (i.e., the metabolome) in the seru

urine of fathead minnows exposed to estroge

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ORD will seek to establish international collaborations 

through the development of collaborative or 

coordinated calls for proposals. These research 

proposals will also engage ORD scientists in the 

study of exposure routes and pathways, relevant 

properties required to inform exposu

 Identification of indicators of exposu

through the application of genomics, 

proteomics and metabolomics 

Key Science Question 3: What are the exposures that will result from 

releases of manufactured nanomaterials? 

Critical Path for Research on Exposure Pathways 

Modification of current exposure model and development of new 

exposure models to predict exposure pathways for nanomaterials in 

environmental media 

An assessment of the 

applicability of EPA’s 

current exposure models to 

nanomaterials 

Provide the underlying science 

on the exposure pathways of 

NMs 

Identify the exposure pathways associated 

with production, end-use, and recycling or 

disposal of manufactured nanomaterials in 

different environmental matrices 

Synthesis of physical/chemical properties 

that influence exposure in environmental 

media 

Identification of indicators of exposure 

through the application of genomics, 

proteomics and metabolomics 

2009 

2010 

2012 

2014 

Figure 4-3 Critical Path for Research on Exposure Pathways 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:20 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:20 

By characterizing nanomaterials’ health and 

ecological effects and identifying the physical and 

chemical properties that regulate their toxicity and 

biokinetics, ORD will address a lack of information 

required for nanomaterials risk assessment. 

ORD’s research will provide EPA offi ces with 

information on the health and ecological effects of 

specific nanomaterials and applications impacting 

EPA’s mission, as well as guidance on best practices, 

approaches and test methods for assessing/predicting 

their health and ecological effects. ORD will also be 

addressing key immediate priority effects research 

needs identified in the US EPA Nanotechnology 

White Paper, such as, adequacy of test methods, 

characterization of the health and ecological 

effects of nanomaterials (nanotoxicology), hazard 

identification, dosimetry and biological fate. 

ORD’s nanomaterials health and ecological effects 

research builds upon its ongoing risk assessmentbased research within the Air, Water, and Safe 

Products/Safe Pesticides programs. These research 

activities provide the facilities and expertise that 

are directly applicable to addressing nanomaterial 

health and ecological effects resulting from various 

potential routes of exposure and environmental 

interactions. ORD’s research is conducted within 

a risk assessment paradigm. ORD’s nanomaterials 

health and ecological effects program will conduct 

research to: 

 Evaluate current test methods to assess 

their adequacy to determine the toxicity 

of nanomaterials, and modify or develop 

toxicity test methods, as required 

 Determine the acute and chronic health and 

to identify the appropriate exposure-re

metric(s), e.g., surface area, particle si

relative to traditional, concentration-b

metrics 

 Identify the physical and chemical pro

of nanomaterials that regulate their 

deposition, uptake, and fate, as well as 

susceptibility and sensitivity factors (e

gender, age, life stage, disease conditi

that may influence their toxicity and 

biokinetics 

 Identify ecological systems that conta

especially susceptible organisms, life 

or populations 

 Identify and develop alternative testin

approaches, technologies, and models 

screen, rank, and predict the in vivo to

of nanomaterials and their application

4.2.2 Key Science Question 4. What are the 

effects of manufactured nanomaterials an

applications, and how can these effects 

quantified and predicted? 

4.2.2.1 Human Health Effects Research Act

ORD will examine the health effects of nanom

that are relevant to EPA’s mission and mandate

regulatory responsibilities by addressing the 

health effects research needs identified in EPA

Nanotechnology White Paper and the NNI’s, 

Environmental, Health and Safety Research N

for Engineered Nanoscale Materials. Howeve

there exist significant challenges associated w

addressing nanomaterials health effects; these 

include: 

20 
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3) The need to address the 3Rs of toxicity 

testing (reduce, refine and replace the use of 

animals) in research and regulatory programs 

Opportunities do exist to address these challenges 

associated with assessing nanomaterials health effects 

and include: 

1) Employing the vision and 

recommendations of the National Academy 

of Sciences, National Research Council 

report, Toxicity Testing in the 21st Century: 

(Organization for Economic Cooperat

Development, OECD) 

3) The existence of validated alternati

testing methods and ORD’s airborne 

particulate matter health effects progr

that has demonstrated the ability of in 

test methods to provide consistent res

reported for in vivo studies, including 

and epidemiology studies, associated 

examining the pulmonary toxicity of p

Figure 4-4 An Integrated Testing Strategy for ORD’s Nanomaterials Health Effects Research 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:22 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:22 

 

 

Oberdorster et al, Particle and Fibre Toxicology 2:8, 

2005; D.B. Warheit et al., Inhalation Toxicology 

19(8):631-643, 2007; John Balbus, et al., Enviorn. 

Health Perspect. 115:1664-1659, 2007; J.G. Ayres et 

al, Inhalation Toxicology 20(1):75-99, 2008). 

ORD’s nanomaterials integrated testing approach 

consists of three key components: 

1. Nanomaterials Physical and Chemical 

Characterization: Nanomaterials that are relevant 

to EPA will undergo recommended physical 

and chemical characterization. This will require 

integrating the expertise of nanoscale material 

scientists into ORD health effects research, since 

physical and chemical information is critical to: 1) 

ensure the purity and confirm/validate the properties 

of nanomaterials before initiating research to assess 

their health effects; 2) detect and quantifying 

nanomaterials in cells and tissues in order to 

determine nanomaterial biokinetic or ADME; and 

3) provide information for the identifi cation of 

nanomaterials properties regulating their toxicity 

(hazard identification) and exposure-response 

metrics. 

2. Alternative Test Methods: ORD will employ 

cellular and non-cellular test methods to assess 

the toxicity of nanomaterials that are relevant to 

EPA. In vitro toxicity testing will use a variety of 

cell types reflecting different routes of exposure 

(dermal, inhalation, ingestion) and health effects 

that may arise due to the ability of nanomaterials 

to translocate from their initial site of deposition to 

other organs within the body. Nanomaterials in vitro 

toxicity testing will assess the mutagenic, intestinal, 

pulmonary, dermal, immunological, neurological, 

reproductive, cardiovascular, and developmental 

toxicities using cellular models reflective of these 

testing; 2) provide key information (e.g., expo

dose and health endpoints) to assist in designin

in vivo toxicity testing that will potentially refi

reduce the number of animals needed for in vi

studies; 3) determine mechanism(s) of injury a

mode of action of nanomaterials; 4) rapidly pe

comparative toxicity studies between chemica

identical nano vs. micro-size materials; 5) perf

nanomaterials interactions, uptake, and distrib

the biochemical, cellular, and intracellular leve

6) correlate nanoparticle surface properties wi

biological and cellular interactions, and toxicit

ORD’s ToxCast program (http://epa.gov/comp

toxcast/news.html) will assist in extending OR

efforts to develop alternative test methods to e

nanomaterials toxicity. ToxCast offers an appr

to address the extreme diversity of nanomateri

by applying high-throughput platforms and 

computational approaches to screen a large nu

of materials. The ToxCast program will assist 

ORD’s efforts to rank the toxicity of nanomate

as well as develop models to identify physical 

chemical properties that determine the toxicity 

nanomaterials. 

3. Nanomaterials In Vivo Toxicity Testing: OR

nanomaterial health effects research strategy w

assess the toxicity of nanomaterials in animals

i.e., in vivo toxicity. These studies will examin

cancer, pulmonary, dermal, and gastrointestina

toxicities associated with initial site of deposit

nanomaterials by various routes of exposure (d

inhalation, ingestion) as well as immunologica

neurological, reproductive, cardiovascular, and 

developmental toxicities to assess their potent

systemic toxicities. In vivo toxicity studies wil

examine the deposition and fate of nanomateri

following various routes of exposure, as well a

22 
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strategy to assess nanomaterials health effects will 

be a coordinated, iterative process providing: 1) an 

approach to rank nanomaterials for in vivo toxicity 

testing; 2) assist in designing nanomaterial in vivo 

of NIOSH and the National Toxicology Progr

international levels (Organization for Econom

operation and Development, OECD). 

Figure 4-5 Critical Path for Conducting ORD’s Nanomaterial Human 

Health Effects Research 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:24 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:24 

ecological effects research strategy focuses on the 

physical and chemical factors unique to nanomaterials 

that may influence their toxicity, determine rates of 

uptake and disposition in ecological matrices, and 

require novel approaches for quantifying exposureresponse relationships. The strategy is organized 

into chronological tasks, beginning with the need to 

evaluate methods used in traditional toxicity for their 

adequacy or applicability to nanomaterials. The tasks 

are broadly defined and it is expected that research 

will advance in an iterative manner; it is likely that 

initial tasks will need to be revisited depending on 

results of subsequent research efforts, and as new 

nanomaterials are developed. 

Task 1 - Evaluate the suitability of existing 

test methods for assessing the hazards of manufactured 

nanomaterials: nanomaterials, or products containing 

nanomaterials, are already being submitted for 

approval under Agency programs such as TSCA 

and FIFRA. These and other Agency programs 

have existing protocols for evaluating hazards to 

ecological receptors in both aquatic and terrestrial 

systems, but the appropriateness of these methods for 

nanomaterials has yet to be evaluated. Key concerns 

include how to expose organisms to nanomaterials in 

ways that have relevance to exposures that may occur 

in the environment, and whether these standardized 

assays address the organisms, life stages, and 

bioavailability considerations that are most important 

for understanding the potential ecological risks of 

nanomaterials. In addition to direct toxicity testing, 

emphasis will be placed on measurements of exposure, 

uptake, and dose. 

Task 2 - Understand the mechanisms 

underlying the ecological effects of nanomaterials 

and identify potential gaps in hazard assessment 

procedures: Building on results of exposures using 

with physical, chemical, and biological comp

ecological systems to determine if there are e

nanomaterials not captured by single organism 

testing, such as altering the relationships amo

ecosystem components and thereby affecting 

ecosystem function. Throughout Task 2, emp

will be given to determining whether nanoma

exert effects through mechanisms that would 

well addressed by existing ecological hazard 

screening tools. 

Task 3 - Develop methods and mode

predict the hazard or ecological risk of nanom

Due to the diversity of nanomaterials expecte

enter the marketplace in the coming years, EP

need predictive tools that can be used to prior

newly developed nanomaterials for testing an

evaluation. For example, quantitative structur

activity relationships (QSARs) may be devel

to predict the toxicity of untested materials b

on their chemical structure and an understand

of the mechanisms underlying dose and toxic

Likewise, ecological effects models may be i

predictive tools if research in Task 2 indicate

ecological processes above the organismal le

being uniquely affected by nanomaterials. Th

will build directly from Tasks 1 and 2 and ass

research conducted by the Computational Tox

Program. 

Leveraging research with ORD laboratori

centers and other federal programs: ORD’

nanomaterials health and ecological risk asse

research will leverage work with other federa

programs and international efforts where sim

nanomaterials are being monitored, studied, a

characterized. For example, ORD laboratorie

jointly addressing nano-cerium dioxide to ass

potential environmental exposures, and assoc

24 
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characterization of nanomaterials and their detection 

in biological systems will require a multidisciplinary 

approach with close interactions across ORD as well 

as with other organizations such as the Department of 

Energy’s National Laboratories. 

4.2.4 Anticipated Outcomes 

ORD’s human health and ecological effects research 

programs will provide key information regarding the 

health and ecological implications from exposures 

to nanomaterials, and their applications, in order 

to identify and manage potential adverse impacts 

and inform program offices and regions regulatory 

and other policy decisions. Specifi cally, ORD’s 

nanomaterials effects research will provide Agency 

offices with information on the health and ecological 

effects of specific nanomaterials and their applications, 

as well as guidance on best practices and approaches/ 

test methods for assessing/predicting health and 

ecological effects. ORD’s nanotechnology health 

and ecological effects research activities will provide 

publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals on 

the: 

profiles that may provide biomarker

nanomaterial exposure and/or toxici

(exposure assessment and predictive 

nanotoxicology) 

 Provision of necessary counsel and g

that will assist in the review of prem

notice applications and assess the ad

of harmonized nanomaterial test gui

assist OPPTS and internationally, th

(regulatory assistance/support and le

nanomaterials effects research) 

 Addressing the gap in knowledge re

the toxicity of nanomaterials, which 

impeded the ability to conduct accur

cycle analysis 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:26 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:26 

and ecological effects 

2010 

Assess the hazard of selected 

nanomaterials and identify especially 

sensitive ecological receptors 

Develop methods and approaches 

for exposing whole organisms to 

nanomaterials 

2011 

Identify appropriate metrics for quantifying exposureresponse relationships, e.g. potentially based on particle 

size and number, surface area and charge, etc. 

Where toxicity is detected, determine whether the 

mode or mechanisms of toxicity are unique relative to 

non-particulate contaminants 

Identify factors and properties that 

regulate adsorbtion, deposition, 

metabolism, and elimination. 

2012 

Identify physical and chemical characteristics of nanomaterials that might be used in 

predictive modeling (e.g. QSAR) to reduce the number of toxicity tests required for their 

regulatation 

4.3 Research Theme: Developing Risk Assessment 

Methods 

4.3.1 Key Science Question 6. How may risk 

assessment approaches need to be amended to 

incorporate special characteristics of manufactured 

nanomaterials? 

4.3.2 Background/Program Relevance 

Nanomaterials may have special properties that may 

influence their environmental behavior and e

on human health and ecosystems. These unu

features introduce complications for basic as

risk assessment such as characterization of e

and dose-response relationships. For exampl

particle count or one or more measures of su

properties (area, charge, etc.) a better metric 

mass for describing dose-response relationsh

Although nanomaterials pose significant new 

possibly unique challenges for the practice o

assessment, features of the basic paradigm f

26 
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and services. Ecological risk assessment entails 

the evaluation of goals and selection of assessment 

endpoints in a problem formulation step, followed by 

analysis of exposure to stressors and determining the 

relationship between stressor levels and ecological 

effects. The next step is estimating risk through 

the combination of exposure and stressor-response 

profiles, description of risk by discussing lines of 

evidence, and determination of ecological adversity 

(U.S. EPA, 1998). Interfacing among risk assessors, 

risk managers, and interested parties during the initial 

planning of a risk assessment and communication of 

risk at the end of the risk assessment are critical to 

ensuring that the results of the assessment can be used 

to support a management decision. The importance of 

communication and stakeholder involvement in both 

human health and ecological risk assessment and risk 

management has also been noted by the Presidential/ 

Congressional Commission on Risk Assessment 

and Risk Management (1997: (see Figure 2-1) and 

recently affirmed in the National Academy of Sciences 

“Science and Decisions: Advancing Risk Assessment” 

(NAS, 2008). 

While basic features of the health and ecological 

risk assessment paradigms may still be relevant to 

nanomaterials, this emerging technology nevertheless 

warrants careful systematic evaluation such as that of 

the comprehensive environmental assessment (CEA) 

approach (Davis and Thomas, 2006; Davis, 2007), 

which treats the evaluation of the environmental 

and health risks of nanomaterials as an issue that 

cuts across EPA programmatic domains and is not 

simply categorized as solely an air, water, toxics, or 

solid waste issue. The CEA approach starts with a 

qualitative life cycle framework, as shown in Figure 

4-7. It takes into consideration multiple environmental 

pathways, transport and transformation processes, 

cumulative and aggregate exposure by various 

process. The term case study is used to ref

specific examples of nanomaterials and the ty

issues that would be need to be considered to 

their respective environmental and health ris

focusing on specific examples of nanomateri

realistic applications, it is possible to identify 

prioritize research needs to assess the real wo

impacts of these materials. Given the striking 

differences in toxicological and physicochem

properties of nanomaterials, generalizations a

nanomaterials need to be considered cautious

4.3.3 Research Activities 

The role of ORD’s nanomaterial risk assessm

research is (1) to help guide overall research 

toward generating the information needed to 

future comprehensive environmental assessm

nanomaterials and (2) to carry out such asses

coordination with all of ORD and the progra

The research question ORD will address is, “

may risk assessment approaches need to be a

to incorporate special characteristics of manu

nanomaterials?” To address this question, OR

identify and prioritize information gaps by d

a series of case studies and workshops to furt

refine research needs for specific nanomateri

recommended in the EPA Nanotechnology W

Paper. 

In order to develop case studies of particular 

nanomaterials and their specifi c applications

appropriate nanomaterials must be selected. T

collective judgment of an internal workgroup 

representing all relevant program offices was 

this purpose. The workgroup was given a sum

of available information on the chemistry, hu

health, toxicology, exposure, and release of v
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adequate information on applications of SWCNTs 

that had presumptive exposure potential for the 

general population. Two applications of nanoscale 

titanium dioxide are under development, for water 

treatment and for sunscreen. The choice of a nanoAg application is currently under evaluation. These 

selected classes of nanomaterials also serve as a 

common focus and point of coordination for near-term 

studies by the various ORD laboratories. 

The case studies present available information for 

specific nanomaterials using the CEA approach as an 

organizing structure. These documents are intended to 

be used as part of a process to systematically identify 

and prioritize information gaps where additional 

research is needed. Draft case studies will be the 

focus for a series of workshops involving invited 

technical experts and stakeholders. Workshops will be 

conducted in a formal, structured manner using expert 

judgment techniques (e.g., multi-criteria decision 

analysis, expert elicitation). A detailed summary 

of the discussions and views expressed during 

the workshop will be used in refining the current 

research strategy document. The workshop summary 

will highlight areas of work that will be needed to 

support comprehensive environmental assessments 

of nanomaterials. This refined statement of research 

priorities will provide longer-term guidance for both 

ORD and the broader scientific community. This 

approach is consistent with a recent NAS review of 

the NNI’s nanotechnology EHS research strategy 

(National Academy of Sciences, 2008). 

Path for Risk Assessment Research (see Figu

4-7) are intended to be representative of an it

process that will involve the creation of a ser

additional case studies and periodic reevaluat

of earlier case studies as new information bec

available. The timeframe for the outcomes sh

the Critical Path figure is conservatively estim

but highly uncertain because of the many scie

uncertainties currently associated with nanom

As indicated above, limited assessments (mor

narrowly focused than a CEA) may be attemp

data become more available, and such assessm

could occur at any point within the overall tim

shown in the Critical Path figure. 

 Initially, two draft case studies for di

applications of nano-titanium dioxide

be followed by additional case studie

periodic iterative evaluation of earlie

studies as new information becomes 

 Workshop(s) for invited experts and 

stakeholders and public observers, us

formal expert judgment methods to id

and prioritize research needed to supp

comprehensive environmental assess

nanomaterials 

 Using input from the workshop discu

a document that lays out long range r

directions for obtaining information n

for nanomaterial CEAs 

28 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:29 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:29 

Summary Report of NM Case Studies Workshop for 

Identification and Prioritization of Research to Support 

Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (CEA) of 

Selected NMs 

2010 

 Research Strategy for CEA of 

Selected NMs, for use by ORD and 

research community 

Qualitative life cycle analysis for 

selected NM(s) 

2011 

Fate and transport assessment for 

selected NM(s) 

Exposure assessment for selected 

NM(s) 

Ecological effects assessment for 

selected NM(s) 

Health effects dose-response 

assessment for selected NM(s) 

2014 

CEA of selected NM(s), for use by OPPTS and other 

program office 

 

4.4 Research Theme: Preventing and Managing 

Risks 

4.4.1 Key Science Question 7. Which manufactured 

nanomaterials have a high potential for release from 

a life cycle perspective, and what decision-making 

methods and practices can be applied to minimize the 

risks of nanomaterials throughout their life cycle? 

4.4.1.1 Background/Program Relevance 

To understand the potential environmental 

implications of nanomaterials and to identify potential 

approaches to manage emissions/releases, it 

to understand potential entry points of nanom

into the environment. Under this question, O

conduct research to understand emissions/rel

can occur either during production, use, recy

disposal of nanomaterials. Examples of poin

into the environment include: 

 Manufacturing Waste Streams: Du

manufacture of nanomaterials, the in

by-product and waste streams will n

evaluated. Pollution prevention (e.g.

chemistry) research may be very hel
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:30 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:30 

treatment facilities. Personal care products 

and pharmaceuticals containing nanomaterials 

will eventually be washed down the drain and 

transported to wastewater treatment plants. 

There they will either be removed from 

the wastewater and end up in the biosolids 

residuals or they will remain in the wastewater 

and be discharged into surface water as part of 

the treatment plant’s effluent. 

 Disposal of Used Material: At the end of its 

useful life, each of the consumer products and 

equipment items created using nanomaterials 

will enter the waste stream. It is critical to 

understand where these products end up 

(e.g., landfill, incinerator) in order to provide 

guidance on possible emissions/releases of 

nanomaterials. 

 Product Usage: As products incorporating 

manufactured nanomaterials enter the 

consumer market place, material release may 

occur during the normal intended usage or 

conversely during unintended usage. Releases 

may occur through abrasion, adsorption/ 

absorption, or volatilization, among other 

processes. For instance, if veterinary 

pharmaceuticals are administered using 

nanomaterials, these materials may be excreted 

and released into the environment when 

manure is land applied as fertilizer. 

In addition to human and ecological exposure, there 

is a need to better understand how the manufacture, 

use, and waste management of nanomaterials 

will contribute to other environmental problems, 

including climate changes due to global warming 

and stratospheric ozone depletion; land use leading 

to acidification, eutrophication, and photo-oxidation; 

odor, noise, waste heat, radiation, and casualties. To 

LCA experts worldwide agree that existing L

are capable of supporting the development o

frameworks for nanomaterials and nanoprod

A number of cradle-to-gate and gate-to-gate 

have recently appeared in open literature, he

researchers to identify the key concerns that 

be addressed if the goal of a full-scale LCA i

realized. The proper life cycle boundaries, pa

the “grave,” must be defined for a given mat

can be confusing when considering nanomat

because they have the ability to permeate mu

regions, passing throughout the environment

gaps concerning the transport, persistence, an

of nanomaterials must be filled. This is chall

because the diverse properties of nanomateri

surface charge, size, shape, chemical compos

that can be synthesized will strongly impact 

materials disperse and react within the body 

environment. Thus, either a large amount of 

or the development of accurate predictive mo

needed to acquire the missing data. Addition

such as the treatment of nanomaterials incorp

into larger composite materials and the recyc

nanomaterials must be addressed. The compl

choices associated with the use of nanomater

can influence the LCA categories defined abo

summarized in Figure 4-8. 

The value of any assessment is not only the d

generates, but how the data are applied. Are 

acceptable tradeoffs associated with nanoma

Is the large-scale production of an environme

taxing material justified if it has medical app

1 Maynard, A.D., 2006. Nanotechnology: A Resea

for Addressing Risk. Woodrow Wilson Internationa

Scholars,Washington, DC. 

2 Kloepffer, W., M. A. Curran, et al. (2007). Nanotec

Life Cycle Assessment: Synthesis of Results Obtaine

shop in Washington, DC, 2-3 October 2006. 

30 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:31 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:31 

Material 

Selection 

Manufacturing Application Top Down Bottom Up

Chemistry

Dispersive

Composite 

Geometry 

Medical 

Tube/Rod 

“Spherical” 

Particle

Composition

Surface 

Functionalization/ 

Charge 

Organic (Dendrimers, etc.) 

Carbon (CNTs, Buckyballs) 

Inorganic (Metals and/or 

oxide/hydroxides) 

Environmental 

Manufactured Goods 

Shape 

Size 

Disposal 

Recycle 

Incineration 

Landfill 

Water 

Treatment 

Wet 

Dry 

BioAccumulation 

4.4.1.2 Research Activities 

ORD will identify industries, processes, and 

products that have relatively high potential to 

release manufactured nanomaterials into the 

environment. Existing literature will be evaluated to 

better understand the industries of importance and 

identify where gaps in information preclude a full 

assessment of emission/release points of concern. 

ORD will perform a systematic assessment of the 

production, use, and ultimate fate of nanomaterials 

to understand the potential for emissions/releases 

into the environment. A modified tool using life cycle 

principles will be developed to better understand 

which industries pose the greatest potential to emit/ 

release nanomaterials of concern and to inform 

decision makers about the overall impact of 

manufactured nanomaterials. This effort will 

include a series of assessments for the highes

industry categories. Results from ORD work

be used to guide industry and nanomaterial s

for assessment. Comparative assessments wi

produced to help inform decision-makers at w

in the lifecycle of nanomaterials intervention

be used to avoid future environmental polluti

ORD effort will be closely coordinated with 

organizations, particularly EPA’s Office of Po

Prevention and Toxics, which is also generati

on nanotechnology industries. 

This research can be used to inform EPA, ind

and academia about potential proactive and “

approaches for manufacturing nanomaterials 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:32 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:32 

variety of nanomaterials and nanoproducts. 

High-potential industries/processes 

ORD will draw upon the latest literature, hold 

workshops, and interact directly with industry 

representatives to identify market trends for 

nanotechnology industries that utilize the priority 

manufactured nanomaterials indicated earlier in this 

document. This research will attempt to quantify the 

amounts of nanomaterials expected to be produced and 

used by existing industries, identify key processes used 

to manufacture these nanomaterials, and project future 

industries where significant releases may occur. 

Identification/characterization of potentially 

released materials 

Once we know where the manufactured nanomaterials 

may be released, it will be important to understand 

something about the characteristics of these materials 

to inform future transport, transformation, exposure, 

and health studies. The research will focus on whether 

the nanomaterial emissions/releases have the same 

characteristics (size, chemical composition) as the 

original material or have been modified before release 

to the environment. This area of research will be 

highly dependent upon the availability of technology to 

identify and characterize manufactured nanomaterials. 

Unfortunately, the ability to make these measurements 

is also highly uncertain and will require extensive 

research. Efforts to identify, develop, test, and verify 

detection technologies will be critical to the success of 

this research activity. 

Entry point into the environment 

Given that during the manufacture, use, and recycling 

or disposal of conventional products there are always 

emissions/releases of pollutants, it is reasonable 

to presume that some form of manufactured 

to the environment in solution may be more 

than other nanomaterials to remain in their o

form and become bioavailable. Nanomateria

chemically cross-linked in a matrix are less l

be released in their original form and size, al

uncertainties remain. Because of their except

properties and characteristics, some manufac

nanomaterials are being intentionally release

serve as catalytic agents for remediation or fi

purposes or as instruments for detection of p

This research will summarize the latest uses 

provide available information on the charact

the materials released. 

Materials modification to support green 

manufacturing of nanomaterials 

Research on greener synthesis approaches w

identify opportunities to reduce the environm

implications of nanomaterial production. Sin

basic nanotechnology production processes a

under development, EPA is well placed to wo

others to design production processes that m

or eliminate any emissions/releases. One are

research is producing nanomaterials using be

agents such as phenolics from tea extract, vit

B1, B2, and C, or even sugars and carbohydr

which have been demonstrated to generate a 

variety of nanomaterials for various applicat

These alternative synthesis methods use thes

materials which act as capping agents (e.g., e

that nanoparticles do not agglomerate) creati

allowing the nanomaterials to maintain their 

and benefi ts. In addition to the addressing the 

science question above, this research will be 

to answer the following question: how can en

consumption be minimized and waste/pollut

prevented in the manufacturing of nanomate

products? The general approach will be to de

32 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:33 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:33 

key initial step to inform additional research on 

transport, transformation, and subsequent exposure 

and health studies. In addition, by identifying potential

release points, this research will provide key data 

required to inform how best to manage any potential 

risks. 

Risk Management 

ORD will conduct research on the feasibility of using 

conventional technology to manage the emissions/ 

releases of manufactured nanomaterials or degradation 

by-products to all media. This research will inform 

regulatory officials and industry about the viability of 

various risk management alternatives and potential 

improvements to ensure the safe manufacturing, 

use, and disposal of nanomaterials. This research 

has the potential to influence decisions regarding 

manufacturing, storage, handling, use, and disposal of 

selected nanomaterials. The results of the research will

be provided in the form of reports and computer-based 

systems that can be used to address the unique issues 

associated with various industrial operations. 

To support the research activities below, ORD 

will conduct various workshops with industry, 

academia, and other parts of EPA to discuss 

potential environmental liabilities associated with 

manufacturing, using, recycling, and disposing of 

nanomaterials. The parties will exchange information 

and ideas about where releases are more likely to pose 

the greatest risks and what alternatives (e.g., preferred 

manufacturing approaches via green chemistry) are 

available that could minimize environmental liabilities.

These workshops will help all participants consider 

how nanotechnology products can be designed in the 

most environmentally sustainable manner possible. 

ORD will conduct parametric studies to determine 

if conventional operating conditions used to 

4.4.1.3 Anticipated Outcomes 

 Identification of industries, processe

products that have relatively high po

release manufactured nanomaterials 

environment by working collaborativ

other organizations to inform decisio

about the overall impact of manufact

nanomaterials 

 Improved understanding of the indus

of importance and identifi cation whe

information gaps that preclude a full 

assessment of emission/release point

concern 

 A systematic assessment of the produ

use, and ultimate fate of nanomateria

will improve understanding of the po

emissions/releases into the environm

 Development of a modified tool usin

cycle principles to: (a) better underst

which industries pose the greatest po

to emit/release nanomaterials of con

(b) inform decision-makers about the 

impact of manufactured nanomateria

 A series of assessments for the highe

industry categories, the results of wh

be used to guide industry and nanom

selection for assessment 

 Development of comparative assessm

help inform decision-makers at what 

the lifecycle of manufactured nanom

interventions could be used to avoid 

environmental impacts 

 Design of production processes that 

or eliminate any emissions/releases a

energy consumption during the manu

of nanomaterials and products 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:34 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:34 

thermal destruction and land disposal practices 

 ORD will identify design production processes 

that minimize or eliminate any emissions/ 

releases and reduce energy consumption 

during the manufacturing of nanomaterials and 

products 

4.4.2 Key Science Question 8. How can 

manufactured nanomaterials be applied in a 

sustainable manner for treatment and remediation of 

contaminants? 

While it is critical to understand the potential 

environmental implications of nanotechnology, 

it is also important to investigate how various 

nanomaterials can be used to prevent, control or 

remediate environmental contaminants that have up 

to now been difficult to manage with conventional 

technology. 

Nanotechnology will be used to both create new 

technologies and improve the performance of 

conventional technologies. There are several avenues 

to obtain environmental benefits from nanotechnology. 

 Use nanoscale materials in a synthesis process 

as a substitute for more toxic components or 

as a process mediator that reduces the mass 

of potentially toxic materials employed in the 

chemical process (e.g., catalysts) 

 Incorporate nanoscale materials into a part of 

the production process used to treat noxious 

chemicals prior to fi nal discharge 

 Employ nanoscale materials to treat emissions/ 

releases from power production and industrial 

processes waste streams 

program and regional offices and outside stak

such as industry and states who are constantl

for innovative solutions to address intractabl

problems. Many of these needs have already 

identified. 

4.4.2.1 Research Activities 

This area is primarily driven by the need to 

address existing environmental problems thr

the application of nanotechnologies. Only wh

nanotechnologies potentially offer superior s

to high priority problems do they become via

candidates for ORD environmental applicati

research. Two key technical areas are identifi 

where benefits can be anticipated either direc

through the development of nanotechnology

materials and processes and/or indirectly thro

development of technologies used to charact

nanomaterials that may subsequently be appl

support of environmental restoration efforts. 

Waste/byproduct minimization 

The use of nanotechnology in industrial proc

has many potential advantages. One potentia

significant environmental benefit is reducing 

amount of material sent to the waste stream. 

this research area, ORD will work with its pa

in industry and academia to investigate adva

approaches that have the potential to reduce 

products in those industrial sectors with high 

volumes of waste. Waste minimization benefi

realized through nanotechnology application

result either through the substitution of less-t

chemical components in the manufacturing p

or through the reduction in the required mass 

toxic chemical components via enhanced rea

rates or efficiencies. An example of the fi rst 

includes the use of nanomaterials to improve 

characteristics of bio-based, nanocomposite 

34 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:35 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:35 

Application of nanomaterials to reduce 

environmental risks 

Under this research area, ORD will investigate the 

potential for various nanomaterials to minimize the 

release of toxic chemical constituents. Similar to 

the use of nanoscale catalysts in the manufacturing 

process, the use of nanomaterials to treat process 

waste streams (gas, liquid, or solid phases) provides 

enhancements in removal rates and/or efficiencies. 

One key activity will include the application of 

nano catalysis for the reduction of air pollutants 

and a better understanding of how these catalysts 

can be used in various environmental applications. 

Inorganic nanoscale materials, including metallic iron 

nanomaterials and aluminosilicate-based zeolites, 

have been synthesized for removal or degradation of 

metals and organic contaminants from air and water 

effluents generated as a result of manufacturing and 

power-generation operations. Similar to the case 

described above for the manufacturing process, the use 

of nanomaterials in end-of-pipe treatments affords the 

opportunity for regeneration or controlled disposal of 

treatment by-products. In addition, this research will 

study the use of nano-scale iron particles to remediate 

aqueous streams contaminated with chlorinatedorganics, pesticides, PCBs, heavy metals and such 

inorganics like Cr+6, arsenates, perchlorates, and 

nitrates. If these treatment and remediation processes 

are successful, they can be incorporated into existing 

treatment systems to further reduce contaminant 

loading. 

Another area of emphasis within this program 

will be to investigate the ability to physically 

and chemically tailor substances, surfaces, and 

pores at the nano-scale to improve selectivity and 

efficiency of membrane fi ltration, adsorption, 

and catalysis. The objective is to identify and 

the physical and chemical nature of bindi

sites in the materials with the performanc

those materials is the key to developing n

or improved adsorbents with properties th

exceed those that have conventionally be

used. In the water area, nanomaterials ma

enable the manufacture of media that are 

selective, efficient, and economical for re

destruction of existing or emerging conta

from drinking water, wastewater, and stor

water. These improved media may arise f

better design and uniformity of pore size, 

size, or composition made feasible by nan

design and control of the manufacturing p

Remediation of contaminated sites is ano

area where ORD will explore the use of 

nanomaterials. Examples of these researc

development efforts include the developm

of nanoscale metallic solids or biopolyme

for the destruction of organic contaminan

the extraction of inorganic contaminants 

ground water and soil. Ultimately, EPA c

a significant role in advancing the develo

and implementation of these technologies 

research and testing. Using past experien

implementing waste minimization, treatm

and remediation technologies, EPA can fu

the much-needed role of a technical medi

between the commercial entities actively 

development of synthetic nanomaterials a

who may be negatively affected by the la

utilization of these materials. 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:36 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:36 

36 

Key Science Questions: 

7. Which manufactured nanomaterials have a high potential for release 

from a life-cycle perspective, and what decision-making methods and 

practices can be applied to minimize the risks of nanomaterials 

throughout their life cycle? 

8.	 How can manufactured nanomaterials be applied in a sustainable 

manner for treatment and remediation of contaminants? 

2009 

Characterize NM’s with enhanced catalytic properties 

2010 

Develop scientific foundation for the 

use of NMs for environmental 

remediation 

Report on a Life Cycle Analysis 

approach for evaluating future 

nanotechnology applications 

2011 

Research brief to compare the life-cycle environmental 

tradeoffs of different disposal options for engineered 

nanomaterials 

Research on what practices can be applied to 

minimize the risks of nanomaterials throughout their 

life cycle 

.Field demonstrate NM treatment 

technologies for ground water and 

environmental contaminants 

2012 

Develop preventive methods and nanomaterial technologies for risk 

management of environmental contaminants 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:37 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:37 

 What nanomaterials, in what forms, are most 

likely to result in environmental exposure? 

 What particular nanomaterial properties may 

raise toxicity concerns? 

 Are nanomaterials with these properties likely 

to enter environmental media or biological 

systems at concentrations of concern, and 

what does this mean for risk? 

 If we think that the answer to the previous 

question is “yes,” can we change properties 

or mitigate exposure? 

Providing information to answer these questions will 

serve the public by enabling decisions that minimize 

potential averse environmental impacts, and 

thereby maximize the net societal benefit from the 

development and use of manufactured nanomaterials. 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:38 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:38 

For more about EPA research on nanotechnology, please visit: 

www.epa.gov/nanoscience 

38 
nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:39 nanotechPublicationFINAL7-28-09.indd Sec2:39 

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40