Home > News > Nanotechnology and the environment: beauty rather than beast?
May 22nd, 2007
Nanotechnology and the environment: beauty rather than beast?
Abstract:
Much has been said about the potential of nanotechnologies to revolutionise the way we live, with the biggest changes forecasted to take place in materials, surveillance and healthcare. The accompanying discussions on the possible side effects of working at the nanoscale may suggest to the casual observer that the environment will be a loser in the nano-revolution. Not so, according to scientists investigating environmental nanotechnology.
Warnings have been sounded about the unknown effects of nanoparticles on human health and the environment, and many have called for studies into ecotoxicology to accompany nano research. Possible dangers are related to: the potential for dispersion and exposure; increased likelihood of chemical reactivity; particles could act as a carrier for contaminants, providing rapid and long-range transport; and the difficulty of recovering material at the end of its life.
Source:
cordis.europa.eu
Related News Press |
Sensors
Quantum engineers ‘squeeze’ laser frequency combs to make more sensitive gas sensors January 17th, 2025
Beyond wires: Bubble technology powers next-generation electronics:New laser-based bubble printing technique creates ultra-flexible liquid metal circuits November 8th, 2024
Nanotechnology: Flexible biosensors with modular design November 8th, 2024
Interviews/Book Reviews/Essays/Reports/Podcasts/Journals/White papers/Posters
Leading the charge to better batteries February 28th, 2025
Quantum interference in molecule-surface collisions February 28th, 2025
New ocelot chip makes strides in quantum computing: Based on "cat qubits," the technology provides a new way to reduce quantum errors February 28th, 2025
Environment
SMART researchers pioneer first-of-its-kind nanosensor for real-time iron detection in plants February 28th, 2025
Nanoparticle bursts over the Amazon rainforest: Rainfall induces bursts of natural nanoparticles that can form clouds and further precipitation over the Amazon rainforest November 8th, 2024
New method in the fight against forever chemicals September 13th, 2024
Human Interest/Art
New 2D multifractal tools delve into Pollock's expressionism January 17th, 2025
Drawing data in nanometer scale September 30th, 2022
Scientists prepare for the world’s smallest race: Nanocar Race II March 18th, 2022
Graphene nanotubes revolutionize touch screen use for prosthetic hands August 3rd, 2021
Events/Classes
A New Blue: Mysterious origin of the ribbontail ray’s electric blue spots revealed July 5th, 2024
Researchers demonstrate co-propagation of quantum and classical signals: Study shows that quantum encryption can be implemented in existing fiber networks January 20th, 2023
![]() |
||
![]() |
||
The latest news from around the world, FREE | ||
![]() |
![]() |
||
Premium Products | ||
![]() |
||
Only the news you want to read!
Learn More |
||
![]() |
||
Full-service, expert consulting
Learn More |
||
![]() |