Nano Particles Flashcards
What is a nano particle
A nano particle is a structure that is 1-100nm in size. It contains a few hundred atoms
Why are nano particles used in suncreams
They give better skin coverage
More protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays
Colourless which makes the sun cream invisible on the skin
They do not degrade on exposure to the sun
What are the risks of nano particles
Potential cell damage in the body- the nano particles are so small the may be able to penetrate cell membranes, or be breathed in. In the body they may be more reactive or more toxic than the bulk material
Harmful effects on the environment
Why do nano particles have different properties to the bulk materials
The surface area : volume ratio