Generally, beneficial effects of nanocomposite materials
are well recognized, but the potential (eco-)toxicological
effects and impacts on human health of nanoparticles
have so far received little attention. The high speed of
penetration of nanocomposite-based consumer products
bring about the need for a better understanding about the
potential impacts that nanoparticles may have on biological
systems [193]. Some recent studies have shown that
there are reasons to suspect that nanoparticles may display
toxicological effects on biological systems [194,195]. Concerns
on the effects of nano-sized particles on the human
body and the environment are increasing recently. The
high surface-to-volume ratio of nanomaterials makes them
more reactive and potentially more toxic. Because they
are more reactive, they may interact with other materials
during disposal and recycling of nanoparticle-bearing
composite materials. Others fear that nanomaterials may
cause new allergens, new toxic strains, and increased rates
of nanoparticles absorption by the environment.