Graphene nanoplatelets and reduced graphene oxide elevate the microalgal cytotoxicity of nano-zirconium oxide

Novel products often have a multitude of nanomaterials embedded; likewise within many graphite-based are decorated with nano-zirconium oxide (nZrO2) because graphene is an ultrahigh conductive material whereas nZrO2 for instance fire-retardant. As consequence, the pristine/isolated nanoparticle has unique beneficial properties but it no longer only compound that needs to be considered in risk assessment. Data on joint toxicological implications particularly important hazard assessment multicomponent nanomaterials. Here, we investigated mechanisms underlying cytotoxicity induced by co-occurrence and two including nanoplatelets (GNPs) reduced (RGO) freshwater algae Chlorella pyrenoidosa. Exposure GNPs and/or RGO enhanced algae. Intracellular oxidative stress cellular membrane functional changes C. pyrenoidosa were reason enhancement toxicity binary mixtures GNPs/RGO nZrO2. Furthermore, mitochondria-generated ROS played major role regulating treatment-induced response Observations superficial- ultra-structures indicated provoked damage algal cells. increased extent higher than GNPs. These findings provide new insights use graphene-based carbon other ENPs, fit ideas product testing respects combination effects.