Innovation and Nanotechnology: Use of asbestos-like nanomaterials set to explode

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.

• Ireland
• health
• innovation
• manufacturing
• nanotechnology
• R&D

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