As nanotech goes mainstream, 'toxic socks' raise concerns

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A biosensor made from an array of silver nanoparticles deposited on glass. Credit: Courtesy of the National Science Foundation
A biosensor made from an array of silver nanoparticles deposited on glass. Credit: Courtesy of the National Science Foundation

Nanotechnology is now available in a store near you. Valued for it’s antibacterial and odor-fighting properties, nanoparticle silver is becoming the star attraction in a range of products from socks to bandages to washing machines. But as silver’s benefits propel it to the forefront of consumer nanomaterials, scientists are recommending a closer examination of the unforeseen environmental and health consequences of nanosilver.


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All News summaries for April 07, 2008

Researchers synthesize molecule with self-control

May 12, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Plants have an ambivalent relationship with light. They need it to live, but too much light leads to the increased production of high-energy chemical intermediates that can injure or kill the plant.

Federal government taps NC State experts to explain nanotech risks

May 12, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
The arm of the federal government responsible for coordinating nanotechnology research and regulations across the country has called on experts from North Carolina State University to craft a white paper that will lay out ...

Scientists demonstrate method for integrating nanowire devices directly onto silicon

May 08, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Applied scientists at Harvard University in collaboration with researchers from the German universities of Jena, Gottingen, and Bremen, have developed a new technique for fabricating nanowire photonic and ...

Researchers identify pressure effects on nanomaterials

May 08, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Transistors, lasers and solar-energy conversion devices may be easier to manipulate because of recent research by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists. The researchers defined the role high pressure ...

Chemists measure chilli sauce hotness with nanotubes

May 07, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Oxford chemists have found a way of using carbon nanotubes to judge the heat of chilli sauces. The technology might soon be available commercially as a cheap, disposable sensor for use in the food industry.