Nano-Materials

Understanding Nano-Materials

  • Nano-materials are materials with at least one dimension that measure 1-100 nanometres.
  • These materials possess unique properties that are not seen in their bulk counterparts, due to their small size and large surface area to volume ratio.
  • The word ‘nano’ means one billionth of a metre, symbolised by ‘nm’.

Types of Nano-Materials

  • Various types of nano-materials exist, including nanoparticles, nanotubes, and graphene.
  • Nanoparticles are particle between 1 and 100 nanometres in size. They have a wide array of applications, from medicine to electronics, due to their unique properties.
  • Nanotubes are cylindrical nanostructures. They are often made from carbon and possess remarkable strength and electrical and thermal properties.
  • Graphene is a one-atom-thick sheet of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice. It is noted for its exceptional strength and conductivity.

Properties of Nano-Materials

  • Nano-materials have higher surface area to volume ratios, which often leads to them being more reactive compared to their larger counterparts.
  • Due to their size, they can exhibit novel electronic, optical, and magnetic properties.
  • Many nano-materials demonstrate quantum effects, caused by quantum confinement, which can alter the material’s properties in unique ways.

Applications of Nano-Materials

  • Nano-materials are increasingly being utilized in a wide range of applications. These include renewable energy technologies, electronics, medicine and even sports equipment.
  • For example, nanoparticles in medical applications may be used for targeted drug delivery, enhanced MRI scanning, or in novel treatments such as photothermal therapy for cancer.
  • Carbon nanotubes can be used in electronics for making smaller, faster, and more powerful devices. They’re also used in structural materials for their superior strength and lightness.
  • Graphene has many potential uses in electronics, bioengineering, composite materials, energy technology and more due to its unique properties.

Risks Associated with Nano-Materials

  • As nano-materials are a recent scientific development, the full implications of their widespread usage and potential environmental and health impact are still not fully understood.
  • There are concerns over the toxicity of certain nano-materials if ingested, inhaled or otherwise absorbed into the human body.
  • There is ongoing research and regulation efforts to ensure the safe and responsible use of nano-materials.