Innovation
Innovation/ Nanotechnology: Use of asbestos-like nanomaterials set to explode
By Finfacts Team
Jan 27, 2012 - 8:34 AM

Innovation and Nanotechnology: Nanomaterials - - materials just one billionth of a metre in size - - are used in an array of products including drug-delivery systems, cosmetics, and food additives. With the nanotechnology sector set to explode in coming years, there is a fear that there is insufficient knowledge on the greater exposure of workers, consumers, and the environment to asbestos-like nanomaterials.

In 2009, US developers generated $1bn from the sale of nanomaterials, and the market for products that rely on these materials is expected to grow to $3trn by 2015.

In Ireland, the Government is the main funder of nanotechnology research while the US government sees significant gaps in understanding the health and environmental risks.

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