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Risk, Safety, and Ethical Concerns in Nanotechnology

Edited by Madhuri Sharon
Series: Advances in Nanotechnology and Applications
Copyright: 2025   |   Expected Pub Date:2025/09/30
ISBN: 9781119640387  |  Hardcover  |  
322 pages

One Line Description
Navigate the complex world of nanotechnology with this essential guide,
providing a comprehensive analysis of the ethical, environmental, and health challenges associated with its cutting-edge innovations.

Audience
Research scholars, students, research and development professionals, nanotechnologists, chemists, biotechnologists, and production technologists working with nanotechnology.

Description
This book unpacks the multifaceted world of nanotechnology, where cutting-edge innovation meets profound ethical, environmental, and health challenges. This compelling resource dives into the potential risks posed by nanoparticles, tracing their impact on human health and ecosystems through novel methodologies and exposure scenarios. From exploring nano-toxicological data to evaluating regulatory frameworks and bioethical dilemmas, the book offers an in-depth analysis of the delicate balance between the promises of nanotechnology and the responsibility to minimize harm. It addresses a range of vital topics, including risk assessments for living systems, ecosystemic concerns, and the broader societal questions these advancements evoke. Through a comprehensive discussion of governance, policy, and international legal frameworks, this book acts as a critical guide for professionals, researchers, and policymakers alike.
Readers will find this book:
• Lays a foundation of knowledge on the evolution of nanoparticles;
• Explores the numerous applications and production methods of nanomaterials across various industries, as well as their ethical, environmental, and healthcare implications;
• Provides expert knowledge for environmentalists and healthcare professionals on the impact of nanoparticles in the environment;
• Proposes a coherent framework for analyzing available information to guide robust decisions by scientists and manufacturers dealing with risks and ethical concerns in nanotechnology;
• Examines the legal frameworks across various countries, international protocols, and the complex task of balancing the pros and cons of nanotechnology.

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Author / Editor Details
Madhuri Sharon, PhD is the Director of the Sharon Institute of Nanotechnology, Managing Director of Monad Nanotechnology, and a mentor at Bhishma Sanatan Vedic University. She has published seven books, 11 patents, and over 250 research papers in international journals and conferences. Her research focuses on nanotechnology and bionanotechnology, nanoparticles for drug delivery, carbon quantum dots, carbon nanomaterials, and graphene.

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Table of Contents
Preface
Prologue
Part I: Nanotechnology and Risks
1. Understanding Nanoparticles and Their Probable Risks
1.1 What is Nanotechnology?
1.2 Unique Properties of Nanoparticles that Differentiate Them from Their Bulk Counterpart
1.2.1 Magnetic Properties
1.2.2 Electrical Properties
1.2.3 Thermal Properties
1.2.4 Mechanical Properties
1.2.5 Chemical/Catalytic Properties
1.2.6 Optical Property
1.3 Fabrication of Nanoparticles
1.4 Uses of Nanoparticles in Consumer Products
1.5 Potential Risks Due to Harmful Effects of Nanoparticles
1.5.1 Risk Due to Interaction of Nanoparticles with Living Organisms
1.5.2 Short- and Long-Term Risks
1.6 Need for Measurement of Exposure to Nanoparticles
1.7 Conclusion
References
2. Nanotechnology, Nanoparticles, and Living Systems
2.1 Introduction
2.2 The Need for Nanotechnology in the Present-Day Scenario Cannot be Ignored
2.2.1 Increased Demand for Nanomaterial
2.2.2 Cheap and Clean Energy
2.2.2.1 Batteries
2.2.2.2 Fuel Cell
2.2.2.3 Wind Energy
2.2.2.4 Hydrogen Energy
2.2.3 Food Industry
2.2.3.1 Food Packaging Applications
2.2.3.2 Food Processing Applications
2.2.4 Defense Sector
2.2.4.1 Nano Armor
2.2.4.2 Nano for Faster and Intensive Medical Help
2.2.4.3 Nanotechnology-Based Weapons
2.2.4.4 Lighter and Faster Aircraft
2.2.4.5 Nanotechnology for Vehicles
2.2.4.6 Radar-Absorbing Material (RAM)
2.2.4.7 Portable Energy/Power
2.2.4.8 Nanotechnology for Satellites
2.2.4.9 Nanotechnology for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Warfare
2.2.5 Medical/Healthcare
2.2.5.1 Application in Drug Delivery
2.2.5.2 Nanodiagnostics Application
2.2.5.3 Application in Surgery
2.2.5.4 Application in Medical Robotics
2.2.6 Nanotechnology in Agriculture
2.2.6.1 Precision Farming
2.3 Interdependence and Interaction between Various Living Systems
2.3.1 Life-Cycle and Exposure Challenges
2.4 Concerns of Nanoparticle Properties Impacting Interaction with Living System
2.5 Concluding Remarks
References
3. Methodologies for Assessing Risks Associated with Human Health and the Environment by Nanotechnology-Based Products
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Workplace Exposure to Effects of Engineered Nanoparticles
3.3 Effects of Engineered Nanoparticles on Animals, Plants and Environment
3.4 Traditional Methods of Risk Assessment of Chemicals
3.4.1 What is PM 2.5?
3.4.2 Parameters and Concerns for Formulating Methods for Risk Assessment
3.4.3 Challenges Related to the Traditional Industrial Hygiene Approach
3.4.4 Traditional Instruments for Assessing Exposure
3.5 Methods for Risk Assessment of Nanoparticle
3.5.1 Control Banding to Analyze and Prioritize Risks from Nanomaterials
3.5.2 How to Measure and Assess Exposure to Nanoparticles
3.5.2.1 Measurement of Airborne or Gaseous Nanoparticles
3.5.2.2 Assessment of Nanoparticles in Liquid
3.5.3 Methods Used to Assess the Risk Due to Nanoparticles
3.6 Are Sufficient Methods Being Used to Assess the Risk from Nanoparticles?
3.6.1 Considerations to Assess Risks that Should be Taken into Account
3.6.2 Exposure Factors Required to be Specified for Risk Assessment Methodologies
3.6.3 How to Improve the Risk Assessment of Nanoparticles?
3.7 Conclusion
References
4. Human Health Risks Due to Inhaled Nanoparticles
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 Sources of Nanoparticles
4.1.1.1 Natural Sources of Nanoparticles that we Cannot Avoid
4.1.1.2 Anthropogenic Sources of NPs that Need Careful Management
4.2 Inhalation Routes of NPs from Nose and Lungs to Other Organs of Human Body
4.2.1 Translocation of NPs to Different Sites of the Body
4.3 Cytotoxicological Considerations
4.3.1 Cellular Response
4.3.1.1 Oxidative Stress
4.3.1.2 Inflammation
4.3.1.3 Genotoxicity
4.3.1.4 Tumorigenicty
4.4 Known Hazardous Impact of Inhaled Nanoparticles on Human Health
4.4.1 The Respiratory Tract: Portal of Entry for NPs into the Human Body
4.4.2 Blood Circulation System: A Trojan Horse for Inhaled Nanoparticles
4.4.3 Cardiovascular System Leading to Cardiopulmonary Disease
4.4.4 Digestive System: Can it Digest Nanoparticles?
4.4.5 Kidneys: Can They Flux Out All NPs
4.4.6 Central Nervous System and Brain without an NP Barrier
4.4.7 Nanotoxicity against Reproductive System Organs
4.4.8 Hormone or Endocrine System Nanotoxicity
4.4.9 Cancer: Are Nanoparticles Friends or Foes?
4.5 Lung Bioassay Methodologies for Assessing Hazards after Exposures to Nanoscale or Fine Particulates
4.6 Strengths and Weaknesses of Risk Assessment
4.7 Concluding Remarks
Bibliography
5. Dermal Entry Route of NPs into the Human Body: A Risk?
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Dermal Entry Route of Nanoparticles
5.2.1 Pathways for Skin Absorption of Nanoparticles
5.2.1.1 Stratum Corneum (SC)
5.2.1.2 Skin Appendages
5.2.1.3 Interaction and Impact of Dermally Absorbed Nanoparticles with Biomolecules
5.3 Health Hazards of Dermal Exposure to NPs
5.4 Risk Handling and Evaluation of Dermal Exposure Hazards
5.5 Conclusion
References
6. Different Exposure Scenarios and Nanotoxicological Information
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Exposure Scenario to NPs
6.3 Nanoparticle Exposure and Biokinetic Pathways
6.3.1 Biokinetic Pathway of NPs via Inhalation
6.3.2 Biokinetic Pathway of Injected NPs
6.3.3 Biokinetics Pathway of Dermal Exposure to NPs
6.4 Nanotoxicity and Potential Mechanism
6.4.1 Size and Size Distribution of NPs
6.4.2 Morphology of NPs
6.4.3 Surface Properties Such as Surface Area (SA) and Mass Ratio (MR)
6.4.4 Chemical Composition and Surface Characteristics of NPs
6.4.5 Insolubility or Low Water Solubility of NPs
6.4.6 Agglomeration/Aggregation of NPs
6.5 Assessment of Toxicity of Nanoparticles
6.5.1 In-Vitro Toxicity Assay Method
6.5.2 In-Vivo Toxicity Assay Method
6.5.2.1 Histopathological Analysis
6.5.2.2 Blood Chemistry Analysis
6.5.2.3 Immunotoxicity Assessment
6.5.2.4 Genotoxicity Testing
6.5.2.5 Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity Studies
6.5.2.6 Organ-Specific Toxicity Assessment
6.5.2.7 Long-Term Exposure Studies
6.5.2.8 Behavioral Studies
6.5.2.9 Metabolomics and Proteomics
6.6 Risk Management of NPS
6.6.1 Identification of Hazards Caused by Nanomaterials
6.6.2 Guidance on Available Methods for Risk Assessment of Nanomaterials
6.6.3 (Q)SAR Models for Regulatory Assessment of Nanomaterial Risks
6.6.4 Can AI Help in Risk Management of NPs
6.6.4.1 Analyzing Data and Predictive Modeling
6.6.4.2 Toxicity Prediction
6.6.4.3 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
6.6.4.4 Regulatory Compliance
6.7 Conclusion
References
7. Assessment of Risks Due to Nanoparticles in the Ecosystem
7.1 Introduction
7.1.1 Airborne Nanoparticles
7.1.2 Waterborne Nanoparticles
7.1.3 Nanoparticles in Soil
7.2 What to Consider for Nanoparticle-Related Assessment of Risks to Ecosystem
7.2.1 Identify and Characterize Properties of Nanoparticles of Concern
7.2.2 Bioavailability, Uptake and Toxicity Assessment
7.2.3 Exposure Assessment Fate and Transport of NP
7.2.4 Ecological Effects and Risk Characterization
7.2.5 Uncertainty and Variability
7.2.6 Risk Management and Mitigation
7.3 Monitoring and Surveillance
7.3.1 Monitoring Strategies
7.3.1.1 Remote Sensing
7.3.1.2 Tracking Technologies
7.3.1.3 Challenges and Considerations
7.4 Stakeholder Engagement
7.4.1 Government Agencies
7.4.2 International Organizations
7.4.3 Researchers and Scientists
7.4.4 Health Professionals
7.4.5 Industry
7.4.6 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
7.4.7 Consumers
7.4.8 Media
7.5 Concluding Remarks
References
Part II: Ethical Aspects
8. Ethics Governance and Policies: Problems and Concerns
8.1 Introduction
8.2 How Does Ethics Pertain to Nanotechnology?
8.2.1 Ethics and Nanotechnology in the Workplace
8.3 Framework for Ethical Analysis of Nanotechnology
8.3.1 Considerations for Framework
8.3.2 Privacy
8.3.3 Security Concerns
8.3.4 Environmental Concerns
8.4 Governance and Policies Based on Ethics
8.4.1 Subjectivity
8.4.2 Complexity
8.4.3 Enforcement of Policy
8.4.4 Evolution of Ethics and Ethical Dilemmas
8.5 Problems and Challenges Faced in Addressing Ethical Concerns
8.5.1 Complexity
8.5.2 Subjectivity
8.5.3 Cost and Resource Constraints
8.5.4 Changing Landscapes
8.5.5 Lack of Awareness, Education and Training
8.5.6 Health and Environment-Related Challenges
8.5.7 Organizational Ethics
8.5.8 Legal and Regulatory Compliance
8.6 Concluding Remarks
References
9. Bioethical Questions: Ethically Assessing Toxicology and Human Health
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Organizations Involved in Ethically Assessing Health Risks
9.2.1 International Organizations
9.2.1.1 World Health Organization (WHO)
9.2.1.2 United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
9.2.1.3 International Risk Governance Council (IRGC)
9.2.1.4 International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
9.2.1.5 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – USA
9.2.1.6 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – USA
9.2.1.7 National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – USA
9.2.1.8 European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
9.2.2 Financial and Economic Organizations
9.2.3 Academic and Research Institutions
9.2.4 Industry and Private Sector
9.3 How to Assess Risk and Uncertainty
9.3.1 Risk Assessment Frameworks
9.3.2 Identification of Potential Hazards
9.3.3 Exposure Assessment
9.3.4 Toxicity Assessment
9.3.5 Quantifying Uncertainty and Data Gaps
9.3.6 Risk Management
9.3.7 Ethical Considerations, Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
9.4 Potential Human Health Impacts Due to Exposure to Nanoparticles
9.5 Mitigation of NP-Related Environmental Concerns Affecting Health
9.5.1 Monitoring and Assessment of Risk to Mitigate Effect of NPs
9.5.2 Safe Nanoparticle Design and Practices to Mitigate Effect of NPs
9.5.3 Environmental Remediation and Nano-Bioremediation to Mitigate Effect of NPs
9.5.4 Education and Public Awareness to Mitigate Effects of Nanoparticles
9.5.5 Regulation and Policies to Mitigate Effects of Nanoparticles
9.6 Equitable Distribution of the Benefits of Nanotechnology
9.7 How to Ensure Human Exposure to Nanoparticles and Informed Consent
9.8 Regulatory Framework for Nanotechnology
9.9 How to Tackle the Dual-Use Dilemma of Nanoproducts
9.10 Ethical Boundaries of Privacy and Surveillance Regarding Nanotechnology
9.11 Balancing Long-Term Effects and Precautionary Principle Pertaining to NPs
9.12 Fostering Global Collaboration in Research, Regulation and Governance of Nanotechnology
9.13 Concluding Remarks
References
10. Diseases and Virus Theranostics for Rewriting the Ethical Risk Management
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Theranostics in Disease and Virus Management
10.3 Ethical Risk Management and Risk Rewriting
10.3.1 Ethical Risk Management
10.3.2 Rewriting Risk
10.4 Some Notable Examples of Theranostic Approaches
10.4.1 Theranostics for Cancer Treatment
10.4.2 Theranostics for Infectious Disease Caused by Virus
10.4.3 Theranostics for Neurological Disorders Caused by Virus
10.4.4 Theranostics in Viral Neurological Diseases
10.5 Integration of Theranostics with Ethical Management
10.6 Concluding Remarks
References
11. COVID-19 Therapy and Vaccine: An Eye Opener to Risk and Ethics
11.1 Introduction
11.1.1 An Overview of COVID-19 and History of SARS-CoV-2
11.2 COVID-19 Therapies
11.2.1 Overview of Early Treatments
11.3 Vaccine Development and Science Behind COVID-19 Vaccine
11.3.1 mRNA Vaccine
11.3.2 Vector-Based Vaccine
11.3.3 Protein Subunit Vaccine
11.4 Potential Harm and Risk Assessment of COVID‑19 Therapies and Vaccines
11.4.1 Potential Harmful Effects of COVID-19 Therapies
11.4.1.1 Adverse Drug Reactions
11.4.1.2 Off-Label Use of Existing Medications
11.4.2 Potential Harmful Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines
11.4.2.1 Vaccine-Related Adverse Events
11.4.2.2 Vaccine Hesitancy
11.5 Ethical Considerations in Applying COVID-19 Therapies
11.5.1 Resource Allocation and Fairness
11.5.2 Ethical Guidance During COVID-19
11.6 Ethical Considerations in Using Vaccine
11.6.1 COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation Principles
11.6.2 Informed Consent
11.6.3 Equitable Distribution/Access
11.6.4 Ethics of Balancing Vaccine Mandates with Public Health
11.6.5 Transparent Communication
11.6.6 Data Privacy
11.6.6.1 The Dilemma: Public Health vs. Personal Privacy
11.6.6.2 Stricter Data Protection Regulations
11.6.6.3 Balancing Privacy and Health Protection
11.6.6.4 Legal Guidance and Privacy Laws
11.6.7 Risk Mitigation Strategies
11.6.7.1 Some Case Studies in Ethics
11.7 Role of Nanotechnology in COVID Therapy and Vaccine
11.7.1 Nanotechnology in COVID-19 Vaccines
11.7.2 Nanotechnology in COVID-19 Therapy
11.7.3 Nanotechnology in COVID-19 Diagnostics
11.7.4 Nanotechnology in Immune Modulation for COVID-19
11.7.5 Nanotechnology in Antiviral Personal Protective Equipment
11.8 Conclusion
References
12. Social Ethics, Issues, and Anthropological Questions and Uncertainties in ID Detection
12.1 Introduction
12.2 Social Ethics and Nanotechnology
12.2.1 Health Safety Risks and Social Ethics Due to Nanotoxicity
12.2.2 Environmental Impact of Nanomaterial Causing Ecological Risks and Concern for Social Ethics
12.2.3 Privacy and Nano-Surveillance Related to Social Ethics
12.2.4 Social Inequality: Access to Benefits of Nanotechnology Related to Social Ethics
12.2.5 Economic and Employment Disruption or Job Displacement Due to Monopolization of Knowledge About Nanotechnology
12.2.6 Nano-Related Regulation and Governance Encompassing Regulatory Oversight
12.2.6.1 Regulatory Oversight at the National and Regional Level
12.2.6.2 Challenges in Global Standardization
12.2.6.3 Potential Pathways for Global Governance
12.2.7 Nanotechnology Led Human Enhancement: Ethical Dilemmas in Human Augmentation
12.2.7.1 Nanotechnology and Human Enhancement
12.2.7.2 Ethical Implications for Identity and Personhood
12.2.8 Nano-Weaponization and Dual-Use Dilemmas in Military and Security: An Ethical Concern
12.2.8.1 Nano-Weaponization
12.2.8.2 Dual-Use Dilemma
12.2.8.3 Ethical Concerns
12.2.8.4 Possible Solutions and Ethical Guidelines
12.3 Anthropological Questions Pertaining to Nanotechnology
12.4 Uncertainties in Detection (ID Detection) Concerning Nanotechnology
12.5 Conclusion
References
Epilogue
Index

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Description
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Table of Contents
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