NIOSH is working on a draft of a Current Intelligence Bulletin on occupational exposure to carbon nanotubes.
The draft will likely discuss what is known about potential work-related exposures and evidence for potential adverse health effects, according to a NIOSH spokesperson. It also will suggest exposure controls, including recommended exposure limits, he said.
Carbon nanotubes are tiny manufactured forms of carbon that have the potential to create stronger building materials; improve cancer therapies; and improve energy generation, storage and transmission, according to NIOSH. However, some researchers fear the technology may present the same dangers as asbestos if inhaled.
