What is nanotechnology? Where did it come from and how long has it been around?
Nanotechnology involves using matter of nanometer length (one billionth of a meter) to manufacture new materials, structures and devices. The US National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) defines a technology as nanotechnology only if it involves all of the following:
Research and technological development involves structures with at least one size in the 1-100 nanometer range.
Create and use structures, devices, and systems that have new properties and functions because of their nanometer-scale dimensions.
The ability to control or manipulate on an atomic scale.
Nanostructured materials are not a new phenomenon. For example, the red and yellow colors in stained glass are the result of the presence of nanometer-sized gold and silver particles. However, the ability to probe, manipulate, understand, and fabricate matter at the atomic scale has only recently become an exciting possibility and area of research based on manipulating matter at the atomic level. At the time, Professor Feynman’s predictions were based on theoretical speculation. However, developments such as the invention of the Transmission Electron Microscope in 1981 made nanoscale science a reality.
What types of nanomaterials (nanoproducts) have been produced and used in the United States (USA)?
More and more products and materials are being sold in the market. These include nanoscale powders, solutions, and suspensions as well as composites and nanomaterial-containing devices. Nano-sized titanium dioxide is now used in cosmetics, sunscreens and self-cleaning windows. Nanomaterials are increasingly used in optoelectronics, electronics, magnetism, medical imaging, drug delivery, cosmetics, catalysts and other applications. Nano coatings and nano composites are being used in a wide range of consumer products from bicycles to cars. Details of existing products can be found
What are the potential applications of nano in occupational safety and health?
Nanotechnology holds great promise for society, and occupational safety and health is no exception. Engineered nanomaterials can support the development of the following: high-performance filter media, respirators, non-staining/anti-dust/self-cleaning clothing coatings, fillers for noise-absorbing materials, flame retardants, protective screens to prevent roofs from falling and blinds to control ventilation in mines, catalysts to reduce emissions, and clean up pollutants and hazardous substances . Nanotechnology-based sensors and communications devices can help empower workers during workplace emergencies so they can take preventive steps to reduce their risk of injury. Their compact size coupled with wireless technology could facilitate the development of wearable sensors and systems for real-time occupational health and safety management. Nanotechnology-based fuel cells, laboratory analyzers on chips, and optoelectronic devices all have the potential to be useful in designing safe, healthy, and productive work.
Which world organization is involved in research on nano applications and risks to human health?
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health –NIOSH is conducting research to help answer important questions in supporting the responsible development of technology nano in the United States and competitive global markets. These questions include:
Are workers exposed to nanomaterials during the production and use of nanomaterials, and if so, what are the characteristics and levels of exposure?
Does working with nanomaterials have potential adverse health effects?
What working methods, personal protective equipment and engineering controls are there, and how effective are they for controlling exposure to nanomaterials?
NIOSH is addressing these questions through a multidisciplinary program of research, communication and partnerships with other agencies, organizations and stakeholders.
How does NIOSH relate to other government efforts related to nanotechnology research and development?
NIOSH is collaborating with other government agencies primarily through participation in the U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative, a federal research and development program established to coordinate efforts interdisciplinary in science, engineering and nanoscale technology. This initiative is administered within the framework of the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). NIOSH is a member of the NTSC Nanoscience, Engineering and Technology Subcommittee (NSET). On that subcommittee, NIOSH co-chairs, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Interdisciplinary Working Group on Nanotechnology, Environment and Health (NEHI).
