SSbD case study on graphene-based materials

The safe and sustainable by design (SSbD) framework provides a systematic approach to support informed  decision-making throughout the innovation process. It aims to gather information on safety and sustainabil ity aspects of chemicals and materials along the entire life cycle. To evaluate its feasibility, a case study on  graphene-based materials (GBMs) was conducted, where the necessary data for Steps 1-4 were taken exclu sively from literature. Rather than just focusing on one specific use case of GBMs, all prospective applications  were considered. Furthermore, the study explored broader possibilities, questioning whether an absolute as sessment is achievable and if materials can be evaluated more generally rather than for specific applications.  This presentation will outline the approach taken in these steps and the tools used. Furthermore, key learn ings from the assessment will be highlighted. Based on the lessons learnt, recommendations will be pro posed to increase the efficiency of future SSbD assessments and optimize the distribution of time and re sources to share and increase the benefit.

Presenter: Fiorella Pitaro (EMPA)  

Fiorella Pitaro has an academic background in chemistry and business studies from the University of Zürich.  She is a scientist at Empa in Switzerland, working in the research group for environmental risk assessment  and management. Over the past year and a half, her research has centered on the safe and sustainable by  design (SSbD) approach and on a detailed case study on graphene-based materials. Currently, she is involved  in activities to operationalize the SSbD framework.