984964 - Nanotechnology Research and Safety Update

Nanotechnology has fostered the development of novel technology and products to benefit our life since the early 1990. Nanotechnology has found application in a wide variety of materials and products. Nanomaterials are introduced into such goods as paints and coatings, building materials and structural composites, cosmetics and medicines. The R&D work in nanotechnology has focused on several domains. They are (1) synthesis and manufacture of nanomaterials, both pure and composite, (2) use of nanomaterials in nanotechnology-based products, (3) safety of nanotechnology. A critical aspect of the nanotechnology enterprise is nanosafety science. Nanosafety includes three main components: environmental safety, public health and safety, and occupational health and safety. Public and occupational nanosafety work entails exposure and toxicology investigations of nanomaterials in various preparations and nanotechnology-based products in various scenarios of use. These include the industrial hygiene of the workplace in nanomanufacturing and nano R&D, followed by toxicity and health analyses of nanomaterials and nanotechnology-based products. Scientists, stakeholders, and governors have been working closely in many countries to understand the potential risks of this fast-growing technology. There are indications that a range of engineered nanomaterials, including nanoparticles, agglomerates of nanoparticles, and particles of nanostructured materials, present potential risks to human health and the environment. The panelists will make presentations in their respective fields of expertise: consulting and research. The topics covered will include the use of nanomaterials in environmental remediation, nanosafety, including assessment of nanotechnology-based consumer products, exposure to nanomaterials and advanced materials, sustainability consideration, engineering controls, and regulation of nanotechnology. The panel will also discuss the current status of advanced materials in the industry and the actions moving toward green and sustainable manufacturing.