A research was published by the lecturer in the Department of Building and Construction Technology Engineering (Mr. Nour Al-Huda Hakim Abdul Amir) entitled (The impact on human health and the environments associated with the use of nano-halloysite clay in concrete: a general study) Publication link (https://www. sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214785323027086)
Search summary:
Halloysite nanoclay (HNC) is a natural, non-toxic nanomaterial that is a member of the kaolin subgroup with a unique nanostructure. The outer layer of the HNC is composed of silica (Si-O-Si), and its inner tube is alumina (Al-OH) with an inner monolayer of water molecules. The outer and inner diameter ranges from 40-70 nm and 10-20 nm, respectively, and its length is about 1 µm. The main objective of this general study is to examine the impact on human health and environments associated with the use of HNC in concrete. HNC is used in the pharmaceutical industry, due to its unique nanostructure, which allows controlled and sustained release of the drug. It has also been used to capture cancer cells in the blood, purify water, remove oil spills, and reduce water pollution. It is considered safe in low and medium doses. However, the use of HNC in concrete to improve its mechanical properties and durability has led to concerns regarding the health of workers in the construction industry and the environmental impact of HNC. This study shows that inhaling or ingesting high doses of HNC can cause lung fibrosis in animals and humans, and although HNC does not irritate the skin, it may cause eye irritation. HNC can be used to produce low-carbon concrete and reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the main cause of global warming.