The mathematical models for the estimation of the exposure simulate the emission and transport of nanomaterials in a working or consumer environment, as well as in different open-air compartments (air, water, sediment, soil). Modeling, as well as direct measurements, are adequate tools to evaluate the exposure and fate of nanoparticles and a large number of specific models have already been developed. The ECHA (European CHemical Agency) encourages the use of some of them in its technical guidelines [1] and new ones are currently in the process of validation.
- Environmental model: how to model the fate of a nanoparticle in the environment
- Occupational model: modeling the exposure of a person working with nanoparticles
- Consumer model: a tool to estimate the nanoparticles inhaled or ingested by a consumer, and what part of it is transferred to the respiratory/gastrointestinal tract