Impacts of Titanium Dioxide Nanomaterials on Health, Safety and Environment

Abstract

Nanomaterials have continued to gain increased uses across many sectors, including agricultural, industrial, and health sectors, due to their unique reactivity, mechanical and electrical properties, which are attributed to quantum effects, larger surface area, and self‐assembly. Despite these, increased toxicity and attendant environmental consequences have been observed in some nanomaterials. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanomaterial is known for its photocatalytic abilities, ultraviolet absorption strength, and transparency which have been useful in manufacturing some consumer products, sunscreens, light-emitting diodes, solar cells, enhanced oil recovery, cancer treatment, decomposition of organic compounds in wastewater treatment, additive in paint, cements, windows, tiles, and other products. However, detailed studies on the health impact of TiO₂ nanomaterials are scanty in literature. This paper is a state-of-the-art review of the impacts TiO₂ nanomaterials in wastewater and soil have on microorganisms, plants, and humans, in relation to health, safety and environment.