Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (otherwise called STEM) are playing a huge part in our lives today. It is impossible to imagine what our lives would be if, STEM had not been a component of it. One of the most important products of STEM that will surely change our lives in the direction of improvement is nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology is a new science expected to see rapid and significant future advancements. It is expected to significantly contribute to the growth of economic activities and job creation all over the world, in the next few decades.
According to researchers Nanotechnology is expected to bring forth, four distinct advancement generations. we are experiencing the initial stage, and possibly the second being nano materials.
This first generation of technology is focused on the science of materials, with an improvements in properties obtained by incorporating “passive nanostructures”. It could take forms of coatings, or carbon nanotubes for strengthening plastics.
The second generation utilizes active nanostructures, such as that, they can be bioactive to deliver a medication to specific targets cells or organ. This can be accomplished by coating the nanoparticles in specific proteins.
The complexity grows further into the third and fourth generation. Beginning with an advanced nanosystem to e.g. nanorobotics, and then moving towards a molecular nanosystem that will regulate the growing of organs that are artificial in the next new generation of nanomaterials.
Application of NANO TECHNOLOGY
Nanotechnology is a field with far-reaching applications, and even more enticing future possibilities with a wide array of possibilities. Let’s now look at how this tiny technology is affecting us and helping secure our future.
•”Doctors within your body” The application of nanotechnology to medicine has seen massive advances in recent years. Millions of dollars are used to study the application of nano materials to detect and treatment illness. For instance, a lot of research has been done to detect ailments by developing nanomaterials infused with a dye that can bind to the relevant molecules found in blood.
There are even electronic tattoo prototypes which can detect vital indicators. By reducing the technology, we can advance the process through implanting or infusing miniature sensors within our body. These sensors would be able to collect more specific information and cause less effort for the patient which allows doctors to customize their treatment.
2. Nanobots and teeth
The use of nanotechnology in the field of dentistry is known as nanodentistry. it’s a revolutionary new technology that has led to enormous strides in the field of dental hygiene. There are a variety of new dental products on the market including implants and dental hygiene products that make use of this technology.
Nanodentistry is used to treat and prevent dental and oral diseases. The technology is also used to reduce discomfort and improve the health of your teeth. Companies are already manufacturing products like nano-impressions, nano-ceramics, nano-composites,nano-fillers, to name a few. Nanodentistry could also be utilized to treat oral cancer. This could have revolutionary effects in the field of medical science if achieved.
3. Electronic sensors that are tiny
Thanks to the latest advances in nanotechnology, sensors with extremely small features are printed on plastic rolls that are flexible. They are able to be produced in large quantities for the lowest cost. They can be utilized to examine the condition of critical infrastructures like bridges nuclear reactors, aircrafts and more.
4. Self-healing
Self-healing remains a science fiction for the largest part, but with more advances in nanotechnology, it will not remain that way for very long. The change in the structure of substances at the atomic level can result in fascinating characteristics. For instance, many substances are currently available with a unique surface that allows the material to abstain from water.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility of dispersing nanoparticles in order to fill any small gap that may be present as well as “heal” the worn or damaged area.
It is possible to create self-healing material for everyday structures like aircraft cockpits servers, microelectronics and displays, for example. and also prevent tiny fractures within these from developing into larger cracks that are more difficult to repair.
5. Combating climate change
The battle against the effects of climate change requires innovative ways to create electricity and make use of it, and nanotechnology is already playing an important part in it. It has assisted in the development of batteries that are used to store more energy for electric vehicles, and also has helped the solar panel to transform more light into energy.
The most common technique used for both cases are, the concept of nanotexturing as well as nanomaterials (for example , carbon nanotubes) which turn the flat surface into a 3D one, with a greater surface area. This means there’s ample space for the processes that allow the storage of energy or to generate it to take place, and the devices function more efficiently.
6. Applications for military
The military, regardless of the country, has discovered enormous potential in nanotechnology. Therefore, it’s no surprise that the large portion of research in nanoscience is funded by the military, and therefore targeted on military applications. They can cover a broad range of innovations including:
•Enhancement in the medical and casualty management of soldiers. For instance dressings for wounds made of nanomaterials permit to regulate the release of proteins and drugs for a specific amount of time. This could ultimately help speed the healing process.
•The production of light, durable and multi-functional materials to be used in military uniforms, providing more protection as well as improved connectivity. The latest research in nanotechnology has also led to the development of nonwoven fabrics with durability which can provide water absorption or repellant, as well as fire and heat resistance, and treatment for antimicrobials among others.
•Enhancement of intelligence in the military using technology for smart sensors that integrate nano-sensors to neural networks. Nano-sensors are able to detect harmful chemicals , biological weapons, as well as damages to military equipment, the natural environment and the size of the dangers that could be posed when explosives are discovered.
•Utilization of nanoparticles with energy for propulsion purposes due to their unique combustion characteristics including rapid ignition and shorter time to combustion. For instance, they could be utilized in solid propellants, solid fuels and even energetic gallants for liquid-based systems.
And all that we have mentioned is scratching the surface, but this is an idea to what the future of nano holds. We hope you found this a wonderful read
