Tuesday, October 23
Nanotechnology and Consumer Products: Introduction
Topic Brief
Nanotechnology is no longer simply a science of the future, but it is a way of producing and using materials at a tiny scale that is rapidly entering our everyday lives in cosmetics, medicine, food, sports equipment, computers, automobiles, and many other consumer products. On the first day of this dialogue, we invited participants to learn about nanotechnology and its current applications, to ask questions, and to share their thoughts on the benefits and risks of these technologies.
Panelists
- Carolyn Cairns, Program Leader, Product Safety, Consumers Union, Consumer Reports Magazine
- Stacey Harper, Research Associate, Oregon State University
- Kristen Kulinowski, Director, ICON, Rice University
- Andrew Maynard, Chief Science Advisor, Woodrow Wilson Center
- Evan Michelson, Research Associate, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
Polls
Focus Point Discussions
A Nanotechnology Primer
This first session of the dialogue included an overview discussion of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Panelists and participants were asked to talk about: What is nanotechnology? What are nanomaterials? What makes them different from other materials? How are these materials being used? What are the benefits of this technology, and are there potential risks? We encouraged participants to ask questions and share their interest in this topic.
Consumer Product Applications: Benefits and Risks
Over 575 consumer products with nanotechnology claims are already on the market. This topic involved a discussion on existing and potential consumer products containing nanomaterials. Panelists and participants explored the various benefits and uses of nanotechnology, the most commonly used nanomaterials, and new developments that may be on the horizon. The discussion also addressed issues of risk (e.g., are there risks, and what are they?).
Have You Used Them? Participants were invited to share their experiences with nanoproducts. Where have you seen these products? Have you purchased any? Why or why not? To what extent do you pay attention to labels? What factors do or would influence your decision to purchase or use a nanoproduct?
Product Labeling
During Day 1 of the dialogue, a number of labeling questions and comments arose during the other two discussions. Thus the discussion threads related to labeling of nanoproducts were pulled into this separate focus point discussion for easier navigation and participation.
Should manufacturers disclose the nano-sized ingredients in their products on labels? How do labels affect your perception of products in both positive and negative ways?
Library Items
"Nanotechnology: Untold promise, unknown risk" , Consumer Reports, July 2007.
NEW! The Twinkie Guide to Nanotechnology Video Check out an entertaining new video featuring scientist and dialogue panelist, Andrew Maynard, which mixes the iconic American snack cake with humor to unlock the mysteries of nanotechnology. (requires Quick Time to view)
Big Picture on Nanoscience , Wellcome Trust, June 2005. Short, engaging introduction to nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology Consumer Product Inventory , Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. A quick look at the 500+ manufacturer-identified nanotechnology-based consumer products currently on the market.