The Physical and Environmental Aspects of Nanotechnology: Opportunities and Challenges

Authors

  • Mansi Gupta Student, Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Management Studies UG Campus, Ghaziabad, India.

Keywords:

Nanomaterials, Environmental Remediation, Toxicity Assessment, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Quantum Dots, Regulatory Frameworks

Abstract

Nanotechnology, the manipulation of matter at the nanoscale (1 to 100 nanometers), has gained immense attention due to its unique physical properties and vast applications across various fields, including medicine, electronics, energy, and environmental science. The distinctive characteristics of nanomaterials, such as their increased surface area-to-volume ratio, quantum effects, and enhanced mechanical properties, enable innovative solutions that were previously unattainable. However, the rapid advancement of nanotechnology raises significant environmental concerns, particularly regarding the potential toxicity and ecological impacts of engineered nanomaterials. This review explores the physical characteristics that distinguish nanomaterials from their bulk counterparts, examining their implications for practical applications. Additionally, it discusses the environmental challenges posed by the production, use, and disposal of nanomaterials, highlighting the need for comprehensive life cycle assessments. Understanding these aspects is crucial for advancing nanotechnology while ensuring environmental safety and sustainability, ultimately guiding responsible innovation in this promising field.

References

Khin MM, Nair AS, Babu VJ, Murugan R, Ramakrishna S. A review on nanomaterials for environmental remediation. Energy & Environmental Science. 2012;5(8):8075-109.

Fulekar MH, Pathak B, Kale RK. Nanotechnology: perspective for environmental sustainability. Environment and sustainable development. 2014:87-114.

Singh KK. Role of nanotechnology and nanomaterials for water treatment and environmental remediation. International Journal of New Chemistry. 2022 May 1;9(3):165-90.

Seo S, Lee JE, Lee K, Kim HN. Effects of microenvironmental factors on assessing nanoparticle toxicity. Environmental Science: Nano. 2022;9(2):454-76.

Chen Z, Yadghar AM, Zhao L, Mi Z. A review of environmental effects and management of nanomaterials. Toxicological & Environmental Chemistry. 2011 Jul 1;93(6):1227-50.

Bhat MA, Gedik K, Gaga EO. Environmental impacts of nanoparticles: pros, cons, and future prospects. InSynthesis of bionanomaterials for biomedical applications 2023 Jan 1 (pp. 493-528). Elsevier.

Aich N, Plazas-Tuttle J, Lead JR, Saleh NB. A critical review of nanohybrids: synthesis, applications and environmental implications. Environmental Chemistry. 2014 Dec 16;11(6):609-23.

Jayaprakash GK, Mohanty K. Advanced Electrochemical Detection of Tetrabromobisphenol A and Hexabromocyclododecane via Modified Carbon Electrodes with Inorganic Nanoparticles: A Short Review. Electrochem. 2024 Jul 30;5(3):314-29.

Jeevanandam J, Barhoum A, Chan YS, Dufresne A, Danquah MK. Review on nanoparticles and nanostructured materials: history, sources, toxicity and regulations. Beilstein journal of nanotechnology. 2018 Apr 3;9(1):1050-74.

Borm PJ, Robbins D, Haubold S, Kuhlbusch T, Fissan H, Donaldson K, Schins R, Stone V, Kreyling W, Lademann J, Krutmann J. The potential risks of nanomaterials: a review carried out for ECETOC. Particle and fibre toxicology. 2006 Dec;3:1-35.

Ramezani M, Rad FA, Ghahari S, Ghahari S, Ramezani M. Nano-bioremediation application for environment contamination by microorganism. Microbial Rejuvenation of Polluted Environment: Volume 2. 2021:349-78.

Mohamed EF, Awad G. Nanotechnology and nanobiotechnology for environmental remediation. Magnetic Nanostructures: Environmental and Agricultural Applications. 2019:77-93.

Hristozov D, Malsch I. Hazards and risks of engineered nanoparticles for the environment and human health. Sustainability. 2009 Nov 30;1(4):1161-94.

Nowack B. Evaluation of environmental exposure models for engineered nanomaterials in a regulatory context. NanoImpact. 2017 Oct 1;8:38-47.

Zhang M, Yang J, Cai Z, Feng Y, Wang Y, Zhang D, Pan X. Detection of engineered nanoparticles in aquatic environments: current status and challenges in enrichment, separation, and analysis. Environmental Science: Nano. 2019;6(3):709-35.

Maria L, Moses JA, Anandharamakrishnan C. Ethical and regulatory issues in applications of nanotechnology in food. InFood Nanotechnology 2019 Jan 22 (pp. 67-92). CRC Press.

Gavankar S, Suh S, Keller AA. Life cycle assessment of engineered nanomaterials. InHealth and Environmental Safety of Nanomaterials 2014 Jan 1 (pp. 112-129). Woodhead Publishing.

Published

2024-11-05