Description

Multiwalled Carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were discovered some twenty five years ago by Sumio Lijima and are considered to be miracle materials of 21st century due to their wide spread industrial applications. The MWCNT production is expected to grow tremendously over the next ten years with an estimated capacity of 2000 tons per year by 2015 as per the projections given by National Science Foundation. Approximately 6 million workers will be employed by CNT industry by 2020. Currently, all over the world a large number of workers are involved in the production of carbon nanotubes at various companies. Occupational and public exposure to MWCNTs is increasing with growing production and use of MWCNTs in various products. Since workers are involved in handling and production of MWCNTs, occupational safety and health has to given priority while dealing with these materials. In the present investigation, the potential health risks associated with MWCNT exposure in the working environment are estimated.