Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is science, engineering, and technology conducted at a nanoscale which is typically, but not exclusively, below 100 nanometers. The benefits of nanotechnology is the possibility to tailor these structures of materials at extremely small scales to achieve specific properties, thus expanding the materials toolkit. Through this, materials can effectively be made stronger, lighter, more durable, and precise, among many other traits.

In particular, advancements in nanotechnology promise new materials and structures which are used as basis for solutions such as improving human health, optimizing available energy and water resources, and raising the standard of living.

Containment of Nanomaterials

In dealing specifically with nanomedicine, the application of nanotechnology in medicine, exposure to potentially hazardous nanoscale substances via inhalation of airborne materials can cause hazard to the operator.

In light of controlling and reducing operator exposure to potential hazards, engineering control techniques such as source enclosure (i.e., isolating the generation source from the worker) and local exhaust ventilation systems must be utilized to properly contain and exhaust out airborne nanomaterials.

Integrated with these controls should be a set of guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) defined to minimize operator exposure to nanomaterials and other potentially hazardous chemicals.

Protection of Nanoscale Products

Below is a list of industries that typically utilize nanotechnology:

• Cancer treatment as a means of targeting specific cancer cells and neoplasms during surgical resection of tumors and other treatment modalities that can enhance the drug’s therapeutic efficacy.
• means to target chemotherapies directly and selectively to cancerous cells and neoplasms, guide in surgical resection of tumors, and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of radiation-based and other current treatment modalities.
• Electronics and IT industry which involves manufacture of consumer products like computer hardware, display devices, mobile and communication products, audio products, and camera and films;
• Energy industry that deals with the construction of solar panels and related equipment; and,
• Transportation industry which develops multifunctional materials that contributes to building and maintaining lighter, safer, smarter and more efficient vehicles, aircrafts, spacecrafts, and ships.

Particulate contamination in products handled in these industries can greatly affect the nanoscale equipment functioning of the product. Hence, facilities handling nanotechnology must utilize cleanrooms and other engineering controls which help in maintaining the air quality of the critical work zone, and its surrounding environment. In addition, integrations that can help in minimizing cross-contamination risks can also also be utilized to sustain the required environment for efficient and suitable processing.

Esco Pharma offers a wide range of products that are fit for the requirements of handling nanotechnology such as those included in our Isolation and Cross-Contamination Facility Integrated Barrier core technologies.

Modular soft-walled and integrated cleanroom ceiling laminar airflow solutions are specifically available, allowing users to build cost-effective cleanroom suites. Moreover, maintenance of cleanroom condition can further be enhanced by reducing cross-contamination through integration of pass boxes and air showers at the entrance and/or in between the controlled room and its external environment.

Through its 4 core technologies (Isolation Containment, Airflow Containment, Ventilation Containment and Cross-contamination Facility Integrated Barrier), Esco Pharma provides specialist services, equipment packages, and process solutions from its core platform products which leads to improved protection of operator and product integrity, reduction of cross-contamination, and a more efficient and reliable processing.

 

References:

1. Department of Health and Human Services. (2009). Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2009-125/pdfs/2009-125.pdf

2. Kandil, M. (2016). The Role of Nanotechnology in Electronic Properties of Materials. ResearchGate. Retrieved from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/304039202_THE_ROLE_OF_NANOTECHNOLOGY_IN_ELECTRONIC_PROPERTIES_OF_MATERIALS

3. National Cancer Institute (2017). Cancer Imaging Program - Nanodelivery Systems and Devices Branch. Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.gov/nano/cancer-nanotechnology/treatment

4. National Nanotechnology Initiative. (n.d.). Nano 101: Benefits and Application. Retrieved from: https://www.nano.gov/you/nanotechnology-benefits

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