December 21, 2022

Authors: Monikh et al.

This paper reviews the definitions and categorizations of advanced materials (AdMas) and assesses their adequacy from a toxicological perspective. It discusses the challenges in evaluating the environmental and human health risks of AdMas and proposes solutions to address these challenges. The paper emphasizes the importance of classification for identifying potential hazards and supporting safe-by-design strategies.

October 22, 2022

Authors: Cambiaso et al.

Correction for ‘Development of a transferable coarse-grained model of polydimethylsiloxane’ by Sonia Cambiaso et al., Soft Matter, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1039/d2sm00939k.

This paper develops a coarse-grained (CG) model for polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) compatible with the Martini 3 force field. The model addresses limitations in simulating PDMS dynamics and accurately predicts key properties, such as the gyration radius and wetting behavior with water and acetonitrile. It enables future studies of PDMS interactions with synthetic and biological molecules.

October 11, 2022

Authors: Cazzagon et al.

The use of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in medical devices, particularly wound dressings, is growing due to their antimicrobial properties. However, excess Ag NPs can release ions during use or end-of-life, posing environmental risks. To address this, a Safe-by-Design (SbD) procedure was developed to optimize functionality and minimize environmental impact. The procedure uses criteria like mechanical strength, antibacterial effect, and Ag leaching to evaluate pre-market alternatives. It helped identify the safest option and compare it with existing products. The SbD approach proved effective for ranking, prioritizing, and selecting safer nano-enabled medical devices.

October 5, 2022

Authors: Zhang et al.

The rapid development of multicomponent nanomaterials (NMs) increases the potential for simultaneous exposure to multiple engineered nanoparticles (ENPs), making it important to understand their combined toxicity. A review of toxicity studies across various species showed that 53% of cases had antagonistic, 25% synergistic, and 22% additive effects. The combination of nCuO and nZnO showed the strongest interactions, with plants more likely to experience antagonistic effects. Key factors influencing these responses include chemical composition, suspension stability, exposure conditions, and species. This knowledge aids in assessing hazards and predicting the impacts of hybrid NMs.

July 14, 2022

Authors: Falk et al.

The "International Network Initiative on Safe and Sustainable Nanotechnology" (INISS-nano) fosters collaboration in nanotechnology and nano-safety through training, standardization, ethics, sustainability, and governance. This revised document outlines actions for harmonization, industrial support, resource sharing, and ethical collaboration.

May 9, 2022

Authors: Stella Stoycheva, Alex Zabeo, Lisa Pizzol, Danail Hristozov

This manuscript describes an innovative approach to socio-economic assessment of (advanced) engineered nanomaterials and nano-enabled products (NEPs) to support safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD) decision making by industries in the early stages of product development.

March 1, 2022

Authors: Cardellini et al.

This study investigates the interaction between citrate-capped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and lipid vesicles with varying membrane rigidities. Using molecular dynamics simulations and experimental techniques like UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, and cryogenic electron microscopy, the research explores how the physical state of the membrane influences the formation and morphology of AuNP-lipid vesicle hybrids. Soft membranes lead to single vesicles decorated with AuNPs, while rigid membranes cause flocculation, with AuNPs bridging between vesicles. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of nanoparticle adhesion and self-assembly on biomimetic membranes, offering design principles for lipid–nanoparticle hybrid systems.

July, 2021

Authors: Peijnenburg et al.

The EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability supports the Green Deal’s goal of a toxic-free environment by promoting the safe and sustainable use of chemicals. Advanced materials, such as metamaterials and biomedical soft materials, are key to achieving this vision but raise potential safety and sustainability concerns. A proposed methodology addresses these concerns by identifying risks early, balancing innovation with safety. Case studies demonstrate its utility for innovators, risk assessors, and regulators, with potential integration into broader EU initiatives.