The confusion between nanotechnology, nanoparticles and nanotubes (and material-specific variations) is a major issue, and one that needs to be cleaned up. Journalists and others often take shortcuts here, merging materials that should be kept separate together – usually unintentionally, because no-one is providing them with clearer information.

To a certain extent, the nanotechnology community (including policy drivers) haven’t helped, by pushing nanotechnology as an overarching concept. Perhaps it’s time to begin unpicking the tangle from this end, and start being clear about what we are – and are not – talking about.

Check out the following passages from media and web sites:
From http://www.asbestos.com news link
Global Mesothelioma Concern Continues Through Nanotechology

Due to the possible health hazards associated with nanotechnology, the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is currently asking for safety regulations surrounding nanomaterials in order to protect workers.

The concern over nanotechnology stems from its resemblance to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral. Previous studies have indicated that nanoparticles share similar characteristics to asbestos fibers, which have been proven to cause pleural mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

While some studies have shown that only nano-particles of a particular long, thin shape have the potential to cause harm, the risk associated with nanotechnology deserves further research. (This is the only sentence that attempts to add some context, though I would suggest it is still misleading.)

Canberra Times (Australia)
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/national/national/general/actu-concerned-over-nanotech-safety/1463396.aspx
‘‘From our point of view, there are growing concerns about the health and safety impacts of nanotech,” Mr Mullins said. “Not only do nano-particles share some characteristics with asbestos, but there’s also lessons to learn from the tragedy that occurred with asbestos… (I know the Mr Mullins in this story has a good knowledge of the science, so the criticism here lies with the reporting)

And this headline on a media release from ACTU web site
ACTU Seminar – Nanotechnology: The Next Asbestos?
Friday, 6 February 2009

Caution is needed in comunicating nanotechnologies (or any technology) to ensure the public can particiapte in the debate from an informed perspective. This doesn’t mean having all the technical background, but to be aware of the issues from a scientific, and social perspective (and possibly political, economic…etc)

Jason Major
Manager
Gene and NanoTechnology Information Service
University of Melbourne, Australia

It’s highly significant because it takes scientists a step closer to understanding whether carbon nanotubes that look like harmful asbestos fibers, could cause asbestos-like disease……