64 Early method development for exhaled breath condensate particle characterisation using single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICP-MS)

Abstract Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) represents a promising non-invasive matrix that reflects the epithelial lining fluid of the lungs, providing a direct measure of an individual’s inhalation exposure. Compared with traditional exposure assessment techniques such as blood, urine and air sampling, EBC offers a more immediate assessment of respiratory exposure and avoids invasive sampling procedures. This study aimed to establish analytical methods for the quantification and characterisation of airborne metal particles in EBC using Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (spICP-MS). EBC samples were collected from volunteers and analysed to determine particle number concentration and elemental composition. Complementary non-targeted Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis was conducted to explore potential biomarkers of effect associated with metal particle exposure. Preliminary findings demonstrate the feasibility of detecting and characterising metal-containing particles within EBC. The results highlight the importance of standardised collection, storage, and analytical protocols to ensure reproducibility and accurate quantification. Future application of this approach will focus on welders as a high-risk occupational group to evaluate real-world exposure scenarios and validate the technique’s capability in field settings. Overall, this work demonstrates the potential of EBC as a powerful, non-invasive biomonitoring tool for linking inhaled particle exposure with biological response, advancing exposure science and worker health protection.