Unit 22: material science
B: Examine the uses, benefits and limitations of developing nanotechnology materials
What is nanotechnology?
Nanomaterials typically have at least one external dimension of 100 nanometres or less or
with an internal structure measurement of 100nm or less. Nanotechnology is the
manipulation of materials on atomic or molecular scales, and they are typically used to build
microscopic devices such as robots. Atoms are placed together as if they were bricks.
Nanotechnology gives complete control over the structure of matter, therefore allowing us
to build any substance or structure permitted by the laws of nature. It could be argued that
nanotechnology helps to considerably improve, and even revolutionise many sectors of
technology, for example, information technology, homeland security, medicine,
transportation, energy, food safety, and environmental science, among many others.
https://www.nano.gov › you › nanotechnology-benefits
Uses and benefits of nanotechnology
Nano technology has many universal uses. For example:
- When a small quantity of nanomaterials is added to or used as surface treatments of
fabrics, it can provide lightweight ballistic energy deflection in personal body
armour, or can help them resist wrinkling, staining, and bacterial growth.
- Clear nanoscale films are applied to eyeglasses, computer and camera displays,
windows, and other surfaces in order to make them water- and residue-repellent,
antireflective, self-cleaning, resistant to ultraviolet or infrared light, antifog,
antimicrobial, scratch-resistant, or electrically conductive.
- Nanomaterials are also being incorporated into a variety of personal care products
to improve performance. Nanoscale titanium dioxide and zinc oxide have been used
for years in sunscreen to provide protection from the sun while appearing invisible
on the skin.