Nanoscience is a study on processing of substances at nanoscale (1-100 nanometers).
Nanotechnology is a development of substances or gadgets using the properties of nanoparticles.
Nanotechnology may be able to create many new materials and devices such as in medicines, electronics, biomaterials and energy productions.
Nanoparticles are particles with sizes ranging between 1 to 100 nanometers \((1 nm =\) \(10^{-9}\) meter). The smaller the size of the particle, the bigger the ratio of the surface area to its volume.
The extremely small size of the particle enables it to penetrate skin layer, blood circulation, lymphatic systems and biological systems.
Application of Nanotechnology in Daily Life
Semiconductors and electronics Improved display screens on electronic devices. This includes reduced power consumption while weight and thickness of screens are decreased.
Energy and electricity More efficient, cost-effective, high efficiency LEDs using arrays of nano-sized structures.
Agriculture Nanotechnology can help increase agricultural productivity, boost pest-resistance and improve food quality.
Textile Nanotechnology sharkskin suit that can repel water molecules is worn by competition athletes.
Food Improved taste, texture and consistency of food.
Medical Precision drug delivery and targeted therapy of cancer cells deep within the body.
Cosmetics Sunscreens that use nanoparticles to block UV rays without leaving a white residue on the skin.
Development in the Field of Nanotechnology
Graphene is one of the carbon allotropes, other than diamond and graphite, but has different characteristics from the rest.
Graphene is a single layer (monolayer) of carbon atoms, tightly bound in a hexagonal honeycomb lattice.
Graphene sheet is the world’s thinnest material, it is a carbon sheet that is only one-atom thick (around \(0.1 nm\) ).
Graphite is made up of many layers of graphene.
The physical properties of graphene are:
Strong and hard
Transparent
Impermeable
Elastic
Good conductor of heat and electricity
Very low electrical resistance
Graphene is an inert material and does not readily react with other atoms.
Graphene is the strongest material known and can be used to enhance the strength of other materials.
Graphene is widely used in the following industries.
Polymers and composites The high mechanical strength of graphene makes it suitable for polymer composite materials.
Energy Graphene is used to produce batteries that last longer, flexible and strong. It is also used to produce supercapacitors. (c) Electronics The arrangement of atoms makes graphene a superior conductor.