Safety and Environmental Aspects of Cellulose Nanoparticles

Abstract

Nanoparticles made from cellulose are increasingly gaining attention in several fields for diverse applications, which can be attributed to their excellent properties. The physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of cellulosic nanomaterials are being studied to investigate their application in areas such as drug delivery, wound dressing, artificial tissues, and others. However, the safety and environmental aspects of cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) are yet to be fully understood and established. The ambiguity surrounding their environmental health and safety remains a serious concern to the standards community. This chapter, therefore, provides information about the types of cellulose nanoparticles, and their various properties and the characterization techniques employed to provide useful information about their properties. It further proceeds to focus on the safety and environmental issues associated with cellulose nanoparticles and the handling practices which can be implemented to ensure maximum safety. This includes various safety techniques that have been developed as precautionary measures against the release and exposure of cellulose nanoparticles into the environment.