bacteria

August 4, 2010

Urging caution with nanomaterials

Pedro Alvarez

render of nanotube: Geoff Hutchison

Builders will use nanomaterials to great benefit in future construction but must be wary of their effects on the environment, especially after disposal, says a new study by Pedro Alvarez (2008). For example, a nanomaterial that prevents bacterial films from growing on windows or solar panels could also harm beneficial bacteria in the environment.

Brendan Bohannan

University of Oregon, Associate Professor, Department of Biology; Director, Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology