Understanding toxicity associated with boron nitride nanotubes: Review of toxicity studies, exposure assessment at manufacturing facilities, and read-across

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT) are produced by many different methods leading to variances in physicochemical characteristics and impurities in the final product. These differences can alter the toxicity profile. The importance of understanding the potential pathological implications of this high aspect ratio nanomaterial is increasing as new approaches to synthesize and purify in large scale are being developed. In this review, we discuss the various factors of BNNT production that can influence its toxicity followed by summarizing the toxicity findings from in vitro and in vivo studies conducted to date, including a review of particle clearance observed with various exposure routes. To understand the risk to workers and interpret relevance of toxicological findings, exposure assessment at manufacturing facilities was discussed. Workplace exposure assessment of BNNT from two manufacturing facilities measured boron concentrations in personal breathing zones from non-detectable to 0.95 mu g/m(3) and TEM structure counts of 0.0123 +/- 0.0094 structures/cm(3), concentrations well below what was found with other engineered high aspect ratio nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes and nanofibers. Finally, using a purified BNNT, a read-across toxicity assessment was performed to demonstrate how known hazard data and physicochemical characteristics can be utilized to evaluate potential inhalation toxicity concerns.

Automated summary

The production method of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT) can affect its toxicity profile, and understanding the potential pathological implications of this nanomaterial is important. In this review, the factors influencing BNNT toxicity, toxicity findings from in vitro and in vivo studies, and exposure assessment at manufacturing facilities are discussed. The results show that compared to other nanomaterials, BNNT has lower concentrations and poses lower toxicity risks in workplace environments.