Nanotextiles — materials suitable for respiratory tract protection but a source of nano- and microplastic particles in the environment

Abstract The paper deals with the formation of nanomaterials (nanoparticles and nanofibers) in the manufacture and use of respiratory protective equipment. It focuses mainly on processes leading to the release of nanoplastics into the workplace and the environment. Based on selected properties of materials used for the manufacture of protective equipment, their stability in the environment is revealed. The paper demonstrates the impact on the environment considering semichronic phytotoxicity of nanoplastics.