Analysis of clinical and diagnostic findings during exposures in chemical nanotechnology

Abstract

The rapid development of nanotechnology - the key technology of the 21th century - demands a consideration of risks and assessment of health effects during exposures to nanomaterials. Due to their high surface to volume ratio, nanoscaled materials exhibit exceptional physical and chemical properties when compared to larger particles of the same composition. Therefore toxicological informations of the bulk material should be carefully applied to nano particles. One of the most relevant uptake pathways is the inhalation of nanoscaled particles. Effects on the respiratory tract like inflammation, oxidative stress and pulmonary fibrosis, adverse effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous system are considered. In addition, nanotubes with their structure similar to asbestos-fibres may have a carcinogenic potential. Taking into consideration the various possible working mechanism of nanomaterials, an extensive diagnostic program was designed and offered to a collective of employees in chemical nanotechnology.