Nanomaterials for textile processing and photonic applications

A few nanoparticle dispersions have been produced for centuries, but it is mainly during the past decade that they have been extensively developed for an amazing range of end uses, some in textile dyeing and finishing but more particularly in a technology now referred to as photonics. The developments in this field are reviewed with particular reference to improved, energy-saving illuminants, computer and television displays, solar panels and digital communications. Fluorescent nanoparticles, which are now widely employed for sophisticated biomedical diagnostic testing (and possibly in future for treating the diseases themselves), are also described. Many nanoproducts are of almost molecular size and potentially very reactive, which has raised fears about possible, as yet unknown, environmental hazards. This review summarises the results of certain individual toxicity trials and the extensive joint programmes planned in both Europe and America.