Part of a series of articles on the |
Impact of nanotechnology |
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Health and safety |
Environmental |
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Part of a series of articles on |
Nanotechnology |
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Impact and applications |
Nanomaterials |
Molecular self-assembly |
Nanoelectronics |
Nanometrology |
Molecular nanotechnology |
Nanotoxicology is the study of the toxicity of nanomaterials.[1] Because of quantum size effects and large surface area to volume ratio, nanomaterials have unique properties compared with their larger counterparts that affect their toxicity. Of the possible hazards, inhalation exposure appears to present the most concern, with animal studies showing pulmonary effects such as inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenicity for some nanomaterials.[2] Skin contact and ingestion exposure are also a concern.