Nanotechnology is now a force coming into its own with benefits for all.
Nano technology is about working with molecules, atoms, micromolecules. The aim is to improve the functionality of materials, components and systems.
Natural nanoparticles are found in soil/earth, water, seaspray salts. They can be made by humans as found in smoke and soot, and finally they can be designed by humans to achieve special properties regarding size, surface properties, ductility, thermal coefficients, bacteria resistance etc. We are increasingly able to design particles with unique and amazing properties!
Examples: Paint with nanoparticles to improve flow, paint quality etc. Nano particles are finding increasing use in food, nanocapsules filled with medicine are developed, used as bacteria-killers in the water supply, nanosilver is widely used as a killer e.g. as a coating in your refrigerator, microchips with layers of nanomaterial as a lab on a chip, car paint with nanoparticles that bust when the paint is scratched in order to close the damage…..
What happens to the particles further on after cleaning and recirculation: can they be removed when it suits you? Can nanoparticles be harmful to man, animals, the environment? How will the newly made nanoparticles perform when released into society and nature? Will they break down, are they toxic, can they combine with other substances? Can they be made environmentally sound or even improve the environment?
Regulations are required to asses and control the risks, especially the unwanted and unforeseen effects.
Tags: food, materials, nano, properties, regulation, risk