Nanotechnology is the science of manipulating materials on an
atomic or
molecular scale, particularly those less than 100 nanometers in size. It encompasses the design, characterization, production, and application of structures, devices, and systems by controlling shape and size at the nanometer scale.
A nanometer (nm) is one-billionth of a meter. To put it into perspective, a human hair is approximately 80,000-100,000 nanometers wide. The nanoscale is where the properties of materials can differ significantly from those at a larger scale.
Nanomaterials are materials with structural features smaller than 100 nm at least in one dimension. These materials often exhibit unique mechanical, optical, electrical, and catalytic properties. Examples include nanoparticles,
nanotubes, and nanowires.
Quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals that possess unique optical and electronic properties due to their quantum mechanical characteristics. They are used in various applications, including medical imaging, solar cells, and quantum computing.
Self-assembly is a process by which molecules adopt a defined arrangement without guidance or management from an outside source. This phenomenon is crucial in
nanofabrication and is employed to create complex nanostructures.
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are cylindrical molecules consisting of rolled-up sheets of single-layer
carbon atoms (graphene). They have extraordinary strength, unique electrical properties, and efficient thermal conductivity, making them useful in a variety of applications, from materials science to electronics.
A
nanosensor is a device that detects changes in physical or chemical conditions at the nanoscale. These sensors are essential in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and industrial applications due to their high sensitivity and specificity.
Top-down fabrication refers to the method of creating nanoscale structures by starting with larger structures and then removing material to achieve desired shapes and sizes.
Bottom-up fabrication involves assembling structures from the atomic or molecular level using chemical processes.
Nanocomposites are materials that incorporate nanoscale components into a matrix of bulk material to enhance its properties. These materials often exhibit improved mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance.
Nanomedicine is the application of nanotechnology in medicine. It involves the use of nanoparticles for drug delivery, imaging, and as diagnostic tools. This field aims to improve the efficacy and safety of therapies by targeting specific cells or tissues.
Nanophotonics is the study of the behavior of light on the nanometer scale, and of the interaction of nanometer-scale objects with light. It has applications in developing new optical devices, including lasers, sensors, and communication systems.
Conclusion
The field of nanotechnology is vast and encompasses a range of complex terminologies that describe its underlying principles and applications. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone looking to delve deeper into this transformative science.
