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They are particles between 1 to 100 nanometers in size, which is approximately 1/100,000th the width of a human hair. At this small scale, ordinary materials exhibit unique properties that are dependent on their size. Their small size allows these to interact with biomolecules and cellular structures in ways that larger particles cannot.
Properties of Nanoparticles
Due to their extremely small size, they exhibit properties that are significantly different from larger particles of the same material. Their large surface area to volume ratio also gives them unique chemical, physical and biological properties. Some materials are stronger, lighter or more reactive at the nano-level. This makes these useful for a wide range of applications.
Applications in Medicine
Nanomedicine uses engineered nanoparticles for medical diagnosis and drug delivery. Iron oxide nano materials are already used in MRI imaging to visualize areas of the body. Nano materials coated with antibodies can recognize and bind to tumor cells for cancer detection. Nano materials are also being developed as carriers to deliver drugs, genes or other therapeutics specifically to diseased cells while avoiding healthy tissues. This targeted approach aims to improve treatment effectiveness while reducing side effects.
Nanotechnology in Industrial Processes
Nanoparticles are used in industrial processes for their mechanical strength and catalytic properties. Aluminum oxide nano materials are used as abrasives in products like sandpaper due to their hardness. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nano materials give sunscreens their transparency and UV blocking ability. Platinum and palladium nano materials are effective catalysts for chemical reactions. Their large surface area allows for more reaction sites, which can increase reaction rates and lower the amount of precious metal needed.
Uses in Consumer Products
The unique optical, magnetic and electrical properties of nanoparticles are being utilized in many consumer products. For example, carbon nano materials known as buckyballs are used in tennis rackets, bicycle frames and other sporting goods to absorb vibrations. Silver nano materials added to plastics, textiles and coatings impart antimicrobial properties, reducing bacterial growth. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nano materials are added to cosmetics, lotions and paints as UV filters or to alter their visual properties like color or reflectance. The applications are numerous and still growing as new functions are discovered.
Environmental and Health Concerns
While nanoparticles enable novel applications, their small size also raises health and environmental concerns that require careful evaluation. Due to their large surface area, nano materials can more easily penetrate tissues, cells and cellular structures in the body compared to larger particles of the same material. Their impact on biological systems is still being studied. Some studies have shown certain metal nano materials can cause oxidative stress or cytotoxicity in living cells, while carbon nano materials appear to have low toxicity. More research is still needed to fully understand their interactions and long-term effects.
The unknown effects of nanoparticles on the environment have also worried some scientists and policymakers. For example, questions remain about how nano materials may affect aquatic ecosystems if released from consumer products during disposal or normal wear and tear. Some studies have found certain metal and carbon nano materials can harm aquatic organisms like algae, daphnia or fish at high concentrations. Their impacts on microbial communities and food chains also need more investigation. Many agencies now require environmental and health assessments of new nanomaterials before commercial approval or funding of research projects.
Regulation and Oversight
As the use of nanotechnology accelerates, policymakers recognize the need for prudent oversight to balance innovation and safety. The U.S. EPA, FDA and NIOSH are evaluating potential nanoparticle risks and implementing regulations for occupational safety, environmental assessments and approval of new nanomaterials in products. Registration requirements, proper handling and disposal recommendations aim to prevent accidental exposures. International standardization groups like ISO and ASTM are developing analytical techniques and reference materials to accurately characterize and measure nanoparticles.
Overall, researchers agree the risks of most nanomaterials remain low when handled properly. Still, continued surveillance and stewardship will help maximize the benefits of these promising building blocks while ensuring public and environmental well-being. With responsible development and oversight, nanoparticles are positioned to transform industries and improve lives through innovative applications in medicine, materials and consumer goods for many years to come.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
