ETD

• food contact materials
• food safety
• microplastic
• nanoplastic
• neurotoxicity
• PVC
• risk assessment

This thesis investigates the potential neurotoxic risks of nano- and microplastics (NMPs) released from food contact materials, using PVC as a case study. A dual approach was adopted: (i) NMPs were characterized as particles through probability density function simulations, coupled with the development of a physiologically based kinetic (PBK) model to predict brain concentrations and supported by sensitivity analyses; (ii) plastic-related substances were assessed using a PBK model to estimate brain concentrations, combined with hazard characterization and a weight-of-evidence approach based on in vitro benchmark dose (BMD) data. These data were integrated with PBK-derived exposure metrics to calculate Margins of Exposure (MOEs), including a combined MOE to account for mixture effects. While predicted chemical concentrations were very low, yielding high MOEs, particle-related effects and the potential release of substances directly within the brain remain of concern. The findings highlight the value of PBK modelling in risk assessment and emphasize the need to investigate the dual role of NMPs as particles and as carriers of neurotoxic chemicals.