Buckyballs (IMAGE) Purdue University Caption Manufactured nanoparticles, called Buckyballs, apparently don't harm the microorganisms responsible for cleaning wastewater. Purdue researchers, from left, Larry Nies, Ron Turco and Leila Nyberg investigated effects of different amounts of Buckyballs added to sludge and found no change in how the microbes functioned. Nyberg is holding a serum bottle containing sludge similar to that used in the study. Credit (Purdue University photo/Vincent Walter) Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.