This blog is part of a series to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Nanotechnology Research Center. Click here for additional blogs in the series and on other nanotechnology topics. Engineered nanoparticles are synthesized materials with at least one dimension smaller than 100 nanometers. Reactive nanoparticles pose a special hazard. The heat released by the rapid oxidation of aerosolized combustible nanoparticles increases the temperature and pressure of the suspending gas. The resultant destructive pressure forces can damage or destroy structures and endanger nearby personnel. When manufactured on an industrial scale, engineered nanomaterials may thus present an explosion hazard. Very little is known about
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