Overview "Frequently asked questions on nanotechnology"

Is there a specific health risk from nano products?

In order to estimate whether nano products constitute specific health risks it is important to know whether the nanomaterials used are bound in a matrix or are present in the product in unbound form. In particular free nanoparticles, nanotubes or nanofibres could lead to health risks through their small size, form, high mobility and higher reactivity.

Unbound nanoparticles could reach the human mechanism via three paths and develop a toxicological impact under certain circumstances: the respiratory tract, the skin and the gastrointestinal tract. Scientists believe that the greatest risks stem from the inhalation of nanoparticles. The latest scientific findings largely rule out the possibility of nanoparticles penetrating the human skin. We do not yet know whether there are any risks involved in the uptake of nanoparticles from the gastrointestinal tract.

Up to now most nano products consisted of nanoparticles that are enmeshed in a solid matrix or liquid suspension. Furthermore, nanoparticles tend to aggregate into larger unions which are generally larger than 100 nm. The toxic effects of nanoparticles linked to their small size and higher reactivity are then no longer relevant.

In principle, manufacturers are obliged to guarantee that their products are safe.