The Fate of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials in the Environment

Carbon-based nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, fullerenes, and graphene have undergone an explosion of interest in recent years. New, easy production methods and many new uses of these materials in vital industries, most notably possible roles as semiconductors, have initiated increased volumes of manufacture. Even higher levels are likely to eventuate as these new applications are brought to the market. As tons of materials are produced, however, their inevitable environmental release becomes cause for concern. The behavior of these synthetic substances in soil and water systems, as well as their effects on local microbial ecosystems, is largely unknown. Therefore, it is imperative that we understand how these nanomaterials affect the environment before they become widespread, so that they may be utilized, transported, and disposed off safely.