NIOSH recently published a new draft chapter on the analysis of carbon nanotubes and nanofibers on filters to be included in the 5th edition of the (NMAM), a collection of methods for sampling and analysis of contaminants in workplace air, and in the blood and urine of workers who are occupationally exposed. The draft chapter, “Analysis of Carbon Nanotubes and Nanofibers on Mixed Cellulose Ester Filters by Transmission Electron Microscopy,” provides standardized approaches for the analysis of carbon nanoparticles intended to harmonize analytical techniques and allow for the comparison of results between studies. The draft chapter includes guidance on performing transmission electron microscopic analysis on carbon nanotubes and nanofibers that are sampled from occupational atmospheres. The procedures described are based on NIOSH research on the microanalysis of airborne carbonaceous nanomaterials.

The draft chapter is available via the docket on . The 5th edition of NMAM, released in May 2016, includes new or updated chapters on factors affecting aerosol sampling, measurement of fibers, monitoring diesel particulate exhaust in the workplace, and other topics.