Carbon nanotubes spark mesothelioma fears

Categories: General Health and Safety |


Carbon nanotubes spark mesothelioma fears Carbon nanotubes could pose a similar health risk as asbestos, according to a new report.

Norwich Union Risk Services reports that scientists from Britain and the US, led by Professor Ken Donaldson at the University of Edinburgh, carried out tests on mice.

They found that widespread use of the nanotubes, which have extraordinary strength and can be used for sports equipment and tear-resistant clothing, could lead to mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs.

Professor Donaldson, writing in the Nature Nanotechnology journal, said: "The results were clear. Long, thin carbon nanotubes showed the same effects as long, thin asbestos fibres."

He added that the findings were of considerable importance because industry is investing in the material believing it to be no more harmful than graphite.

Meanwhile, nine new publications on nanotechnology terminology and guidance for industry have been published by BSI British Standards.
The publications offer guidance on common definitions for nano-related products and labelling, safe handling and material specification.
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