Nanotechnology has shown great promise, but environmental concerns may limit its potential. To establish environmental guidelines for the sustainable use of carbon nanotubes and nanosilver, we investigated nano-waste disposal practices in research laboratories at WPI and reviewed over 90 papers on nanoparticle toxicity, risk mitigation, and environmental behavior. We then performed risk assessments that suggested no environmental risk from carbon nanotubes but potential risk from nanosilver. The guidelines highlighted risk mitigation strategies (release reduction and contamination treatment), research priorities, production data collection, and consumer awareness promotion.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Liu, Chang
• Chen, Zhen
• Luo, Lan
• Lamb, Alexander M

Subject

• Well-Being
• Environment
• Security
• Health
• Sustainability

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-030810-211328

Keyword

• Sustainable development--Environmental aspects
• Sustainability

Advisor

• Burnham, Nancy A.

Year

• 2010

Date created

• 2010-03-08

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright