The risks of Nanotechnology

Now it may seem like I harp on nanotechnology, and I do. It's a field that I see myself going into in the next few years, so it is a way to get background on the subject while working on other projects.

Nanotechnology is regarded as possibly dangerous by the public. What are the known or expected risks as of now? Their are claims that the use of nanoparticles in cosmetics is a health hazard. Sunscreens that use nanoparticles are likewise ridiculed. The fear is that the nanopaticles are so small that they may pass through the epidermis.

The FDA has grounds to regulate nanoparticles in foods, cosmetics, drugs, etc. The current known risks regard health, the environment and the global life cycle. CeO2 is recognized as potentially dangerous because it is a strong oxidizer and used as a fuel additive. Ce02 could imbalance the carbon cycle in nature. The redox of CeO2 could cause it to bond with carbon in the natural cycle and turn it into CO2. Great, more of a reason to whine about the contribution of cars to the pollution in the atmosphere.

Nanoparticles have the possibility to pass through natural porous screens. A volatile chemical could become extremely toxic if it is a nanoparticle. Aerosols that spray chemicals may put people at risk. The decay of Nanoparticles are generally quick so it should not pose a threat, but it could.

Many of the particles, especially those of metals are found to be inflammatory to cells. Biological functions do not readily agree with nanoparticles. Semiconductor nanoparticles are dangerous depending upon how they conduct which is a result on light, heat, and other conditions. Without being able to predict the nature of the environment of the particles, it is hard to predict whether the particles will be toxic or not.

On the other side, CdSe is toxic in macro forms, while as a nanoparticle with a surface coating it is relatively harmless. As for global harm let's face it, oxides released in the atmosphere can be devastating the the biosphere. I guess it's just a cry for help: regulation, experimentation, and studies are needed. Let's be a bit more cautious.



http://www.nano.gov/