Emission and Exposure Analysis Group
Emission and Exposure Analysis Group
6 Researchers:
Bin-Le Lin, Isamu Ogura, Kyoko Ono,Yasuyuki Zushi, Mianqiang Xue
7 Contract Employees
Outline
We are advancing evaluation of risk on human health and ecology from new substances as well as substitute substances and mixtures. Towards this, we are conducting emission and exposure analyses that consider the entire life cycle of these substances. Specifically, we are developing methods for estimating their physicochemical properties, levels of emission into the environment, exposure and risk toward human and ecosystem, etc. In addition, we are working on assessing the risk of accidents from natural disasters and new technologies, and we are developing risk evaluation methods for hydrogen energy carriers and risk tradeoff analysis of implementation of nitrogen cycling technology, marine biodegradable plastics or radiation countermeasures. Finally, our group conducts a wide range of risk assessment studies such as social acceptability surveys, comprehensive risk evaluation and dissemination of evaluation methods throughout Asia.
Research Highlights
Exposure and Risk Assessment for Complex Mixture
Comprehensive Analysis of Mixtures by State-of-the-Art Technology
We are developing analytical methods using state-of-the-art instruments (e.g. GC × GC) to comprehensively clarify chemical composition of mixtures occurring in the environment and in commercial/industrial products.
Instrument for comprehensive analysis (GC × GC) |
Substances from a mixture detected by |
Web Platform for Assessment of Mixture
We are developing a web platform for assessment of complex mixtures. The platform allows users to access mixture data taken by state-of-the-art analytical instruments and directly assess the mixture. The aim of the research is to enable the users to easily and thoroughly assess all of the components in a mixture via the platform.
Mixture Touch: Web platform for assessment of complex mixturs analyzed by GC × GC
Risk Assessment at Disaster and Accident
Assessment of Hazardous Chemicals Released at Disasters and Accidents
We develop a comprehensive management scheme for accidental chemical release. We will seek suitable dispersion models for atmospheric or water environment that are applicable to accidental release. We simulate chemical concentrations and show critical distances of concern. This scheme enables a prompt decision-making to prepare countermeasures in case of accident.
Contour map of heavy gas model at an accidental release (Ammonia) |
An example of reference table, showing distance to endpoints (Toluene) |
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Industrial Processes
We conduct quantitative risk assessments (QRA) for industrial processes, including hydrogen stations to evaluate whether the risk is lower than acceptable risk level.
Risk Acceptance Criteria and Risk of a Hydrogen Station
Developing an Intelligent Tool for Risk Assessment
Dissemination and Innovation of an all-in-one tool (AIST-MeRAM)
We are developing and disseminating an all-in-one risk assessment tool called AIST-MeRAM by advancing its functions/database and developing a web-version which scheduled to be released this fiscal year. Meanwhile we are advancing its intelligent analysis features by using network analysis methods to develop a hybrid ecotoxicity prediction tool and connecting to other widely used tools such as KATE system and ChemTHEATRE.
IT Solution for Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) |
Advancing AIST-MeRAM as an Intelligent System |
Risk/risk tradeoff and integration assessment
Nitrogen cycling technology assessment
We develop risk/risk tradeoff and integration assessment methods and apply them to new energy and environment technologies.
Integration assessment framework
Emission and Exposure Assessment of Nanomaterials
Development of Methods for Emission and Exposure Assessment
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We are developing methods for measuring airborne nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes and cellulose nanofibers. By creating a guide, we support self-management for safety by businesses. |
Guide to evaluate emission and exposure |
Field Surveys and Emission Tests
We conduct field surveys of plants where nanomaterials and their products are handled, and we perform emission tests to evaluate the possibility and degree of nanomaterial emission.
Field surveys |
Test of dustiness during transfer of powder |
Grinding test for composite material |