Study Finds Commonly Used Silver Nanoparticles Are Deadly to Microbes, Plants
Nanotech is looked upon by many as the next great enabling technology that will revolutionize (and is revolutionizing) everything from materials science to disease therapies to game-changing new energy technologies. But, according to a new study by Queen's University researchers, some commonly used nanoparticles found in everything from sunscreen to cosmetics to socks could be destroying soil systems, and by extension the very ecosystems upon which we rely for life. Among the millions of tons of nanoparticles manufactured annually, silver nanoparticles are a particular favorite as they work as antibacterial agents in surgical tools, water treatment, wound dressings, and in a variety of other roles. They've even been used in the cathodes of batteries. Related ArticlesDegradable Nanoparticles Search, Intercept and Destroy Antibiotic-Resistant BacteriaScientists Paint Brain Tumors With Nanoparticles for More Precise RemovalIs Nanotechnology the New Intelligent Design? TagsScience, Clay Dillow, environment, nanoparticles, nanotech, nanotechnology, silver nanoparticlesAnd, if this study is correct, they...