Computer tech breakthrough could risk people's health

According to new research, those that work in the industry which manufactures materials used in computers could at risk of developing serious health problems.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have been looking into the workings of graphene, a material which is used in touch screens of computers and smart phones and found that developers are putting themselves at risk of lung damage.

According to the study, certain forms of graphene contain microscopic particles known as nanoplatelets which if inhaled can lodge in the lungs, causing major problems.

Particles which are smaller than one atom and naked to the human eye act like frisbees and stay airborne, increasing the risk of them being breathed in.

Also, due to their disc-shaped aerodynamic nature, they can easily force themselves deeper into the lungs and create greater issues than over kinds of materials.

The study, which was published in the ACS Nano journal, explained: "The atypical platelet-like shape of the GP [graphene nanoplatelets] particles attracted our attention as they may pose a new risk to the respiratory system after inhalation. Nanoplatelets exhibit specific material properties that could be important for biological interactions.”

Prof Ken Donaldson, chair of respiratory toxicology at the university, added: "We need to further assess the potential hazards posed by nanoplatelets made of graphene and other materials, so that appropriate health and safety measures can be put in place for those involved in their manufacture."

Graphene was considered a super-material when it was first developed back in 2004 because it has the capability of conducting a large amount of power in a very small amount of atoms.

Indeed, the BBC last year referred to it as being the strongest material on earth and scientists from universities in Manchester and Cambridge said that it has paved the way for super fast internet in the future.