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Nanotechnology

Risks of Nanotechnology

There is a growing fear among consumers and scientists that we may be creating new technologies, specifically those smaller than the eye can see, that may cause more problems than benefits.

The science of nanotechnology is rapidly growing with billions of dollars spent on incorporating these microscopic technologies (nanoparticles, nanotubes, buckyballs, etc.) into current products and systems. It is estimated that the Nanotechnology market will be expanding to $1 trillion dollars over the next 10 years. As research and development in this area grows, many experts worry about the interactions between these tiny particles, the environment, and the human body. Since these nanoparticles are so microscopic, it is alleged that they can easily work their way into the brain, the skin, the lungs, and the internal organs, resulting in potentially dangerous outcomes.

The Nanoethics Group, a U.S. research organization, also studies the environmental risk of these resistant nano-materials. Since they are not biodegradable, they have the potential to become long-lasting pollutants, comparable to nuclear waste.


Nano Exposure at Home

According to the ETC Group, approximately 475 products contain invisible, unregulated and unlabelled nanoparticles, found in food products, pesticides, cosmetics, sunscreens and more - and thousands more are in production.

In 2004, tests conducted by environmental toxicologists at the Southern Methodist University identified extensive brain damage to fish exposed to synthetic carbon molecules for only 48 hours, a rate 17 times faster than normal. It was noted that this molecular exposure altered the entire physiology of the fish - a startling revelation.

In 2002, research from the University of California in San Diego revealed cadmium selenide nanoparticles, also called quantum dots, triggered cadmium poisoning in humans. And back in 1997, Oxford scientists discovered that nanoparticles found in sunscreen created DNA damaging free radicals.


Nano Exposure at Work

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates that over 2 million Americans are exposed to high levels of nanoparticles at work. This exposure can be related to the massive occupational hazard of asbestos that affected workers for decades and cost hundreds of lives and millions of dollars.

Scientists confirm that carbon nanotubes are vastly stronger than steel and have a similar profile to asbestos fiber. It is feared that if extensive research and modifications to these materials are not done, they might have a devastating effect on humans and our environment.

LawyersandSettlements.com will be staying on top of this emerging issue and will keep our visitors informed on nanotechnology lawsuits and related news. To stay connected: subscribe to our: [FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER]



Register your Nanotechnology Complaint

If you or a loved has suffered from exposure to nanoparticles or other nano-materials, you may qualify for damages or remedies that may be awarded in a possible class aciton lawsuit. Please click the link below to submit your complaint and we will have a lawyer review your Nanotechnology complaint.

At LawyersandSettlements.com, it is our goal to keep you informed about important legal cases and settlements. We are dedicated to helping you resolve your legal complaints.

Published on Nov-24-05


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