Carbon nanotubes causing asbestos diseases

A study undertaken by specialists and expert researchers suggests that specific types of Carbon Nanotubes could the same affects on the body that asbestos fibers have. Researchers say that the tiny carbon nanotubes resemble asbestos fibers in appearance (long thin material that acts like very sharp needles on the tissue) and have the same mesothelioma disease potential as the fibers.

Carbon nanotubes history Carbon Nanotubes were discovered two decades ago and since then, they are used in new drugs, highly-efficient batteries and advanced electronics. These nanotubes are lighter and much stronger than steel.

Carbon nanotubes research leads to asbestos The research performed by the experts is exactly what was needed in order to support the technology but also make sure that the technology and materials used is harmless for humans. The research studied a specific type of Carbon Nanotubes (multi layered wall) and reviewed the effect it has on people and animals. Researchers and experts have been asking themselves for 10 years if the thin, long nanotubes are not harmful for the general population.

Taking into account that a similar material in shape and size to Carbon Nanotubes is the main cause of occupational related health disorders and diseases, researchers and doctors closely study people that come into contact with carbon nanotubes every day in order to determine if these objects are indeed harmful.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh studied the effects of several types of nanotubes implanted into the abdominal region of mice. They compared the results of long, thin carbon nanotubes to those of ling, thin asbestos fibers. The results were stunning. Both materials have the same effect on the tissue they were implanted in.

Asbestos and carbon nanotubes connection It is known that asbestos fibers are harmful because they are thin enough to reach deep into the lungs and cause them to lose their basic characteristics, such as flexibility and ability to release oxygen into the body. Carbon nanotubes act in the same way. There is one thing, the researchers couldn’t establish if the tiny carbon nanotubes are able to become airborne or not. Nevertheless, it is known that if these tiny particles reach the lining of the chest they could cause cancer to the person years after he or she was exposed to the material.

The research results were clear, only one type of nanotubes pose a threat, and only if they become airborne and are able to reach the chest wall lining. The type of nanotubes is the long thin type.

source: www.asbestosismesothelioma.org