They may be small, but their potential is enormous. Nanoparticles are being developed that could “starve” tumors1, make perishable food last longer, create gold-flecked luxury fabrics2 and even - some day - enable your shoes to power your cell phone.3
While researchers are busy exploring the commercial applications of nanotechnology, less attention is being given to determining the possible health implications of working with particles whose extraordinarily small size causes them to behave in strange, sometimes unpredictable ways.
Do the unique properties that make them so useful also make them uniquely dangerous?
And, since the most likely avenue of exposure is airborne, will existing respiratory protection be effective in nanotechnology processing and manufacturing environments?
Although subatomic particles are more biologically active than larger particles of the same composition, scientists are not sure what that means in terms of their possible effects on human health. Studies suggest that exposure to nano-sized particles contributes to pulmonary problems like lung disease and decreased lung function, but whether that link is to the engineered particles used in nanotechnology remains to be seen.4
Under what circumstances might exposure occur?
Experts believe that while nanomaterial-enabled products are unlikely to pose a risk, some of the processes used to manufacture them (i.e., formulating and applying nanoscale coatings; or machining, sanding, drilling, cutting or grinding nanomaterials) could release respirable-sized nanoparticles. Cleaning and disposing of materials from dust collection systems could also result in exposure to nanoparticles.4
While researchers work on developing ways to accurately assess the health risks of nanotechnology, the National Institute for Occupational Science and Health (NIOSH) recommends taking a precautionary approach to respiratory protection.