Nanotechnology and EHS
Nanoclay particle capture in various glove materials - TURI research
Nanotechnologies have the potential to greatly impact - both positively and negatively - industry, healthcare, materials and the health and safety of workers and the environment. Nanoscale molecular assembly processes allow for synthesis of chemicals using fewer toxics and generating less hazardous by-products than is possible with larger scale chemistry processes. Nanoscale devices can operate at significantly lower energy levels such that tiny amounts of ambient heat or light can be employed to power nanodevices. The use of nanomaterials can allow industries to greatly reduce or eliminate the use of other toxic additives to their products. At the same time, there is very little information available regarding the fate of nanoparticles when inhaled, ingested or touched, nor is there much information available regarding the fate of nanomaterials once introduced into the air, water or solid wastestreams.
TURI is working with researchers and industry to tap the possiblities presented by nanotechnology while identifying and limiting the potential negative effects on occupational or environmental health. In collaboration with the UMass Lowell Nanomanufacturing Center of Excellence, TURI is investigating, from an environmental health and safety standpoint, the use of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies as alternatives to traditional materials and processes.
Contact Pam Eliason for more information about our research into nanomaterials as safer alternatives.
This page updated Monday April 14 2008