Fig. 1.

The experimental set-up for air–liquid interface exposure of SAEC and A549 cell cultures to Cu, Pd, or Ag aerosol particles. The SDG system was connected to a 6 l volume, and also fed with physiological gases. The NACIVT, SMPS, and TEOM drew aerosol particles from this volume, after being diluted to the proper exposure level, during the full 1 h exposure events. For the max. exposure levels of aerosol particles, the dilutor was bypassed from the set-up