O o d h e a d p u b L i s h I n g L i m I t e d

particularly if they absorb smaller contaminants such as pesticides,
cadmium and organics and transfer them along the food chain; and
(ii) persistence, in effect creating non-biodegradable pollutants which,
due to the small size of the nanomaterials, will be hard to detect.’
© 2009 Woodhead Publishing Limited

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No reports or publications are available that specifically consider the
potential risks of nanotechnology in textiles, although the potential risk is
being recognised (Holme 2008). Studies have shown that some nanoparticles
are able to pass through the blood/brain barrier of largemouth bass (Oberdorster,
2004) and cause lung inflammation in rats (Tetley, 2007). There are three
risks that need to be considered when using nanoparticles on textiles:
1.
The accumulation of nanomaterials in the environment from wastewater
streams and the effect that this could have on the food chain. Some have
speculated that nanoparticles in the environment could be absorbed at
the lower end of the food chain and move up to eventually enter humans.
These studies often use C-60 fullerenes (Brumfiel, 2003).
2.
The transfer of nanoparticles from the textile through the skin into the
wearer’s bloodstream. Such materials could accumulate in the body with
toxic effects.
3.
Hazards to mill workers handling nanomaterials from inhalation or skin
contact with the material. Many nanoparticles will pass through
conventional dust masks.
At present there are no government regulations concerning nanomaterials,
rather the industry is self-regulating. Many people believe nanomaterials are
safe because the bulk material is safe; however, as stated above, the high
surface area of nanoparticles can result in significant changes in the particle
chemistry and therefore may increase the hazard of the material.