Silver nanoparticles: from production to use, what are the risks?

Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) have antibacterial properties that are particularly advantageous thanks to their interaction with the cells of micro-organisms and to their propensity to produce silver ions that also act on such cells. They have enjoyed major development with the boom in nanotechnologies. Although the main use is the medical field and in particular treatment for burns, they are also present in numerous other uses in daily life (textiles, hygiene, food). This article summarises the knowledge on production, uses, and exposures, and on the preventive measures to be taken when using these nanomaterials.