Nanotechnology is a relatively new field of science that has well-established its place in the worlds of consumer goods, medicine, and, as most people would know, electronics. Its is an extremely profitable, fast growing industry, seen in the fact that a new nanotech products hit the market at a rate of  3 to 4 on a weekly basis (1). Because of how new the technology is the public, myself included, are not too educated on the subject. So many good uses for nanotech are flooding the markets that society and even manufacturers may have been overlooking negative effects to hurriedly bring in the profit that they can and begin reaping the benefits. Lack of awareness can lead to our harm as consumers. Nanotoxicologists are not deeming nanotech as evil, but are bring to light risks that affect our health specifically.

Above: Silver nanoparticles (FORTOX)

Although, “the majority of available data indicate that there is nothing uniquely toxic about nanoparticles as a class of materials,” (2) there are particles and fibers harmful in particular circumstances. “Bacteriostatic” silver nanoparticles used in clothing to reduce odors have been found to make their way, “into the waste water stream and may destroy bacteria which are critical components of natural ecosystems, farms, and waste treatment processes” (1). Also, exposure to the silver nanoparticles is toxic to cells, “suppressing cellular growth and multiplication and causing cell death”, particularly in testicular cells (3). According to publications in “Toxicology Sciences”,  Workers in a paint manufacturing facility were found to have nanofibers in their lungs after being diagnosed with a lung disease. All of the above are serious and must be addressed. Manufacturers can not let the profit from their customers outweigh their health and well-being.

Nanoparticles uses in clothing and fashion. Despite air-purifying and antibacterial qualities, the particles come in contact with the users skin and also may make their way into the waste water stream (Cornell).

Designs for any product should always should have a safety component. In nanotechnology, a field where even brilliant experts are studying both positive and negative effects of it uses, I see designing for safety as the most important design aspect. Making a point to educate public and consumer in a way that does not instill fear would be beneficial for both sides of business. Overregulation is generally agreed to be the death of nanotech, but regulation that ensures safety and limited risk is of paramount importance to the acceptance, continuation, and success of nano-consumer-product integration.

(1)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanotechnology

(2)http://nano.cancer.gov/learn/now/safety.asp

(3)http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120314100416.htm