Environmental and Human Health Impacts of Nanotechnology

“Environmental and Human Health Impacts of Nanotechnology will serve as a valuable resource for academic researchers in nanoscience and nanotechnology, environmental science, materials science and biology, as well as for scientists in industry, regulators and policy developers.” (Chemistry Journals, 11 April 2011)

“In this detailed volume meant for researchers in nanoscience and nanotechnology, environmental science, materials science, and biology, as well as scientists in industry, regulators, and policy makers, Lead (environmental nanoscience, U. of Birmingham, UK) and Smith (environmental chemistry, U. of the West Indies, Barbados) compile chapters that assess the environmental and health impacts of nanotechnology.” (Book News, September 2010)

Nanotechnology is a rapidly expanding field receiving extensive funding and development worldwide.  A large number of novel processes occcur on the nanoscale, and the unique properties of nanoparticles offer potential benefits in a range of applications, from consumer products to medicine and environmental protection.  However, there remains considerable uncertaintity with regard to the hazards and risks associated with nanoscience. An increased understanding of the environmental and human health impacts of engineered nanoparticles is essential for the responsible development of nanotechnology and appropriate evidence-based policy and guidelines for risk assessment.

Presenting the latest advances in the field from a variety of scientific disciplines, this book offers a comprehensive overview of this challenging, inter-disciplinary research area.

Topics covered include:

• The properties, preparation and applications of nanomaterials

• Characterization and analysis of manufactured nanoparticles

• The fate and behaviour of nanomaterials in aquatic, terrestrial and atmospheric environments

• Ecotoxicology and human toxicology of manufactured nanoparticles

• Occupational health and exposure of nanomaterials

• Risk assessment and global regulatory and policy responses

Understanding the behaviour and impacts of nanotechnology in the environment and in human health is a daunting task and many questions remain to be answered. Environmental and Human Health Impacts of Nanotechnology will serve as a valuable resource for academic researchers in nanoscience and nanotechnology, environmental science, materials science and biology, as well as for scientists in industry, regulators and policy makers.