Issues in Environmental Science and Technology

Nanotechnology

Consequences for Human Health and the Environment

Ron E Hester (Editor), R M Harrison (Editor)
ISBN: 978-0-85404-216-6
Copyright: 2007
Format: Hardback
Extent: 148
Price:  £49.95

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Synopsis

Nanotechnology is a much talked about, and rapidly expanding area of science, which is sometimes little understood. It looks set to make a significant impact on human life and, with numerous commercial developments emerging, will become a major industry over the coming years.

Nanotechnology can be broadly described as developing or exploiting products at nanometre dimensions (i.e. as having one dimension less than 100 nanometres). Such materials have a larger surface area to volume ratio than conventional materials which provides them with an increased level of reactivity, and consequently, toxicity per unit mass. This book sets the subject into context by first of all describing the current range of products containing nano-materials and then looking at the consequences for the environment and human health relating to the introduction of nanoparticles and nano-tubes.

Nanotechnology: Consequences for Human Health and the Environment discusses some of the more controversial issues associated with the field including: nanoparticles in the environment, occupational exposure, toxicological properties, human health issues and safety.

This authoritative and comprehensive book will be of interest to both scientists and technologists but also to regulators and government.

Reviews

The book takes a careful look at the hazards posed by nanoparticles and makes a balanced assessment of the benefits and disadvantages of forging ahead with large-scale nanotechnology. Because of the timely and important message it contains, this is a work that I feel should be read by all those who may be contemplating any activity that involves contact with nanoparticles
Source : Chemistry World, February 2008, 64 (Dennis Rouvray)