EPA Ruling Could Allow Controversial Nanoparticles in Pesticides

An antimicrobial chemical used to treat textiles is expected to get EPA approval, despite concern over the potential health risks associated with its microscopic parts, known as nanoparticles, attorneys say.

The EPA recently extended to March 30 the public comment period on a proposed registration by Georgia-based Poly-Technical Solutions LTD for Polyguard, which uses nanosilver particles to protect textiles from microbes and bacteria. The agency is also evaluating whether those products should be regulated under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).

Nanosilver is part of a family of particles that are less than 100 nanometers across. As a ...