Study: Nanotubes Have Same Cancer Risks as Asbestos

Certain types of carbon nanotubes — microscopic graphite cylinders used in a small but growing number of Space Age applications — could pose a similar cancer risk as asbestos if inhaled, scientists reported yesterday.

Researchers found that mice injected with nanotubes quickly developed the same biological damage associated with early exposure to asbestos fibers, a known carcinogen.

The study showed "the potential to cause harm if these things get into the air and into the lungs," a co-author and physicist at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, Andrew Maynard, said.

Mr. Maynard said the nanotubes pose the greatest danger to workers who could inhale the dust-like particles during manufacturing. In finished products, the nanotubes are embedded in other material and thus pose less risk.

Sean Murdock, head of the Nanobusiness Alliance, said precautions are now in place in many factories, usually requiring workers to wear respirators.