Nanoaerosols, Air Filtering and Respiratory Protection

Book excerpt: Recent toxicological studies show that nanoparticles released in technological processes and combustion processes outside industry can be dangerous for humans especially when entering the body through the mouth and nose. In connection with the above, the use of adequately effective respiratory protection equipment is of great importance in prophylactic and preventive activities. The first part of Nanoaerosols, Air Filtering and Respiratory Protection: Science and Practice refers to the general phenomena of filtration described on the basis of the authors’ own experience and international reports. The book also includes a description of the respiratory system and principles of its functioning and the accumulation of aerosol particles. It goes on to discuss technological innovations regarding the production of filtering materials for protection against nanoparticles and the latest test methods. Finally, the book contains information about the proper selection and use of respiratory protective devices against airborne nanoparticles in the workplace and everyday life. Special attention is paid to proper fit procedures as well as use and maintenance activities of such devices. The content of the book with rich illustrative material has been presented so that it can be used by health and safety experts, students as well as employers, employees and private users of respiratory protective devices. "Through a comprehensive approach to the subject of the work, the authors present theoretical foundations as well as practical solutions that are used in the research and development of personal respiratory protection. The complementarity of the information contained in the book will allow the reader to become familiar with a wide range of knowledge related to the design and manufacture as well as assessment of properties and procedures for the use of respiratory protection against the adverse effects of aerosols, including air contaminated with nanoparticles and microparticles. In my opinion the book is a valuable part of the series Occupational Safety, Health, and Ergonomics: Theory and Practice, published by Taylor & Francis." —Maciej Boguń, ŁUKASIEWICZ – The Textile Research Institute, Łódź