AFRL Researchers Study Biological Interaction of Nanomaterials to Enhance Force Protection

  • Published
  • By Human Effectiveness Directorate
  • AFRL/HE
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Thanks to in-house funding, Air Force Research Laboratory scientists are accomplishing a multitude of nanotechnology research projects geared towards investigating the biological interactions of engineered nanomaterials, including potential toxicities arising from the physicochemical properties uniquely associated with nanoscale structures. This research will acquire the fundamental knowledge to facilitate a better understanding of nano-bio interaction mechanisms, provide in-depth analyses of corresponding effects on biological systems, and enable the theoretical development of predictive bioresponse models. Not only will such knowledge help to improve nanomaterial safety strategies for the protection of human and environmental health, it will also aid the application of advanced nanobiotechnologies to the development of future weapon systems.

Under certain conditions of exposure, every chemical is toxic. While the Air Force is working to minimize issues concerning the production, handling, and disposal of nanomaterials as they relate to future mission requirements, a significant knowledge gap remains with respect to the human and environmental health implications of increasing nanomaterial usage. There is a need to understand the potential sources and effects of exposure to nanomaterials throughout their cycles of production and use. Further, it is critical to understand the transport--and evolution--of nanomaterials channeled through the environment and the human body, including their significant avenues of access and potentially adverse effects.

Two key areas of immediate military relevance include propulsion and munitions systems, which employ nanomaterials not only in tuning systems for greater insensitivity to ignition during storage and delivery, but in generating more energetic propulsion/explosions and ensuring long-term storage stability. Consequently, there is a growing need for nanoenergetics and other novel technologies to satisfy the increasing performance demands of propulsion and munitions systems.