Carbon nanotubes ring alarm bells for the HSE
Recent research has indicated that Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) may be hazardous to health. In a paper published by Nature Nanotechnology, it has been noted that the CNTs share many of their properties with asbestos fibres, and there is a risk that they may be harmful to human health.
In response to the new findings, the HSE has asked for a precautionary approach to be used when working with these molecules, although it understands that the use of CNTs cannot be completely avoided due to their commercial value.
The worrying traits that the CNTs have shown are their resemblance in shape to the asbestos fibres and their ability to stick in the lungs of the animals when inhaled. According to the HSE, the use of these molecules cannot be stopped outright, but until further research shows that they are not harmful, the use will have to be minimised and controlled.
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CNTs are forms of carbon, which are manufactured by alterations on the molecular scale. Single-walled (SWCNTs) and multi-walled (MWCNTs) are two major groups of CNTs that have been discovered so far. The substance comes in several chemical compositions - it either can be purely made of carbon or may contain metals and other materials. It has also been found to be several times stronger than steel, and yet significantly lighter than it.
The HSE is of the view that though CNTs themselves have not yet raised great alarm, but their likeness to asbestos necessitates scrutiny. Until proper research has been conducted to resolve the matter, precautions should be taken in terms of risk management. HSE has advised that CNTs should be clearly labelled as ‘Caution: substance not yet fully tested’ until all the potential hazards have been analysed.