Chapter 7 – Nanotechnology safety in the aerospace industry

Abstract

Nanomaterials, which take the form of particles, tubes, films, composites, wires, flakes, and fibers, are used for various purposes in the aerospace industry because of their extraordinary physiochemical properties. Some nanomaterials can enter the human body via inhalation, ingestion, and/or skin contact during the fabrication, machining, transportation, and assembly of components, and they can stay in the body for a long period of time. Because nanomaterials are composed of different compounds with various surface areas, sizes, shapes, surface charges, and energies, they can interact with human tissue, damage or kill cells and organs, block blood flow, and cause serious illnesses. This chapter discusses the application of nanomaterials in the aerospace industry, the health and safety issues related to nanomaterials, and the methods of protection used against their harmful effects.