Nanotubes are as harmful as asbestos

Many researchers on expectant materials on nanotubes have many surprising properties. But according to a recent test, this material is also harmful to health.

Nanotubes.(Photo: NASA)

They are considered one of the most exciting developments of nanotechnology: nanotubes - tubes made of carbon atoms only a few billionths in diameter in diameter. These tiny tubes have many strange properties: they are very durable and capable of conducting electricity. Many materials researchers have expected this small structure, which can be used as surface coatings, to produce super durable fabrics or to use as glue. They may also play an important role in electronics and computer technology.

Because nanotubes are so small they have been suspected of being able to penetrate cell membranes and therefore may be harmful to health - similar to smooth asbestos fibers that damage the lungs when inhaled. Ken Donaldson and his colleagues at the University of Edinburgh have just proved it: In the body, nanotubes can have the same effects as asbestos fibers harm the lungs.

The researchers injected the nanotube into the rat's abdominal cavity. These mice then had similar reactions to mice in the asbestos-affected group. "This result is an alarm signal for nanotechnology in general and especially for the use of nanotubes in particular," the team of scientists commented. "More research is needed before nanotubes are widely used in technology," Ken Donaldson and colleagues wrote in a journal called "Nature Nanotechnology".

Researchers warn against condemning nanotechnology in general and hurriedly: "Society cannot give up the advantages of this amazing material, " said Andrew Maynard, a test participant. emphasize. But do not make mistakes like asbestos.