Nanotechnology Application

Source: "Commercial scale production of inorganic nanoparticles"

In 1959, Richard Feynman became the first individual to give a lecture about the concepts involved in nanotechnology. He gave the talk at the American Physical Society at Caltech. The talk specifically examined how individuals might be able to manipulate atoms and molecules into smaller structures. The talk was well received, and it introduced the idea to the science world. In 1974, Norio Taniguchi coined the term “nanotechnology” to refer to this new and developing field.

Video shows the possible application of Nanotechnology

This Video will give an overview about nanotechnology application and how it will affect paint or coating technology, weight reduction and increase in fuel efficiency in automotive and aerospace domain.

Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is the managing matter at a very small scale. Specifically, it is controlling matter at the atomic level. Nanotechnology refers to structures or matter that is one hundred nanometers large or smaller. The actual field is quite assorted, and includes both manmade objects and natural objects that are manipulated.

Major Facets of Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is currently affecting almost every part of your daily life. You are using products that have been created by nanotechnology without even realizing it. Nanotechnology products are used in metals, polymers, ceramics, and biomaterials. Nanotechnology has already changed how products are manufactured.

History of Nanotechnology

In 1959, Richard Feynman became the first individual to give a lecture about the concepts involved in nanotechnology. He gave the talk at the American Physical Society at Caltech. The talk specifically examined how individuals might be able to manipulate atoms and molecules into smaller structures. The talk was well received, and it introduced the idea to the science world. In 1974, Norio Taniguchi coined the term “nanotechnology” to refer to this new and developing field.

Evolution of Nanotechnology

A number of different technologies helped advance the field of nanotechnology. Two microscopes greatly helped the development of nanotechnology: the Atomic Force Microscope and the Scanning Tunnelling Microscope. The abilities of these microscopes were key to being able to develop and manipulate very small structures.

In the late seventies, the scanning acoustic microscope was developed by Calvin Quate. This microscope made it easier for scientists to manipulate different nanostructures using sound.

As the field of nanotechnology grew, scientists invented a number of techniques using other technologies that improved the study of nanotechnology including:

·         Optical lithography

·         X-ray lithography

·         Dip pen nanolithogtaphy

·         Electron beam lithography

Possible Dangers of Nanotechnology

There is some concern that the individuals could use nanotechnology to create weapons of mass destruction that would be virtually untraceable. Further, some individuals fear that certain products created by nanotechnology might have health risks, or a negative environmental impact.

Nanotechnology Today

The two major techniques that are used in the field are:

·         Bottomup technique - materials are created using molecules. These molecules assemble themselves according to the chemical rules of molecular recognition.

·        Top down approach - nano-objects are created using larger materials. The top-down approach does not use atomic control.

As of 2010, there were approximately eight hundred nanotech products that are available to the public. The field is growing in size, and every week there are approximately three to five new nanotech products that are developed.

Some of the products that are affected by nanotech include:

·         Cosmetics

·         Food

·         Sunscreen

·         Food packaging material

·         Clothing

·         Disinfectants

·         Household appliances

·         Paints

·         Furniture varnishes

Nanotechnology has even been used to create nanoscale materials that are used in solar cells as an alternative to silicon solar cells.

Specific Nanotechnology Companies

There are hundreds of nanotechnology companies; but, it’s useful to know a couple of the companies to begin to understand the field:

·   NanoStellar is a company that creates a nano-composite catalyst that is used in catalytic converters.

·  CO2 Solution is a company that produces an enzyme for removal of carbon dioxide from smoke stacks.

·  Ultimate EnviroCare creates a spray on film that uses titanium oxide of the nanopartices. This film kills bacteria and eliminates odor. These are only a handful of the types of nanotechnology companies.

Future of Nanotechnology

In the future, nanotechnology might be used to develop new medicines and pharmaceuticals. The field of nanotechnology makes new products and materials available that would not be available without nanotechnology.

Posted by Abhishek Kumar Jaishwal on Sunday, October 05, 2014