Nanotechnology: exciting facilitator or worrying innovation?

Nanotechnology is an important feature of concrete technology and innovation in the 21st century. Nanoparticles are enabling concrete technologists to make significant steps forward in terms of concrete performance. However, there is some evidence suggesting health concerns from nanoparticles. Much of this has focussed on the manufacturing processes but there remains a potential health risk for construction in the bioavailability of nanoparticles through working of the products during installation, maintenance and in particular demolition. This paper introduces some new research funded by IOSH to investigate this issue.