Tech Pangs

Font Size

Print

Feedback

Email

Discuss

Related Articles

Nokia unveils phones, services for emerging mktsSNIA India plans major initiatives for storage exp...Techies develop car with a mileage of 250 km/litre...Zensar chief new chairman of Nasscom

scientists have suggested using a nanotube wire to tether satellites in a fixed position above earth. They are used in various applications—from building tiny nanoradios and tennis rackets to iPods and computer chips. They are also entering our daily lives through electronic devices, health care, cosmetics, solar panels, to name a few applications.

A recent study out of the University of Edinburgh reveals that some forms of the nanotubes can cause cancer much like asbestos does. The study shows that long, thin multi-walled carbon nanotubes, which look like asbestos fibers, actually behave like asbestos and can cause cancer of the lung lining. Controversy also surrounds another group of materials that have played a major role in igniting interest in nanotechnology. These are buckyballs, a spherical form of carbon discovered in 1985. There are concerns that exposure to such materials can cause extensive brain damage. By inhaling nanoparticles, these settle down in the brain and lungs, causing various cancers and metabolic disorders.

Researchers also reckon that silver nanoparticles used in socks to reduce foot odour get released in the wash with possible negative consequences. They destroy the beneficial bacteria, which are important for breaking down organic matter in waste treatment plants or farms.

Are concerns being brought about nanotechnology really true? “Concerns regarding the safety aspects of carbon nanotubes should be addressed scientifically, without undue hype. For that matter, any technology should be evaluated for ill effects, if any,” says Ajay K Sood from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and a key person in the government’s Rs 1,000-crore national nanotechnology mission. While projects on safety issues will be encouraged in this mission, he informs that some work on the bio-compatibility issues has already started in India.

Quoting a Lux Research report, an IIT Delhi researcher informs that nanotechnology will be associated with $2.6 trillion worth of manufactured goods by 2014. “Globally, more than $10 billion is spent on nanotech R&D alone. Despite the tremendous amount of money spent on nanotech research, very little is devoted to safety and environmental concerns. Therefore, more detailed investigations on the safety aspects are needed,” he adds.