12-03-2011, 12:46 PM
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Nanotechnology for the Environment
Nanotechnology and the Environment
Nature of nanoparticles themselves.
Characteristics of the products made
Manufacturing processes involved
As nano-xyz is manufactured, what materials are used?
• What waste is produced?
• Are toxic substances used in the manufacturing of nano-xyz?
• What happens when nano-xyz gets into the air, soil, water, or biota?
Nanotechnology has the potential to substantially benefit environmental quality and sustainability through
• Pollution prevention
• Treatment
• Remediation
• Information
Nanotechnology for pollution prevention
Synthetic or manufacturing processes which can occur at ambient temperature and pressure
Use of non-toxic catalysts with minimal production of resultant pollutants
Use of aqueous-based reactions
Build molecules as needed --“just in time.”
Nanoscale information technologies for product identification and tracking to manage recycling, remanufacture, and end of life disposal of solvents