What are Nanomaterials?
Nanomaterials are materials with structural components smaller than 100 nanometers in at least one dimension. These materials often display unique properties compared to their bulk counterparts due to their high surface area to volume ratio and quantum effects. Examples include
carbon nanotubes,
quantum dots, and
nanoparticles of metals like gold and silver.
How are Nanomaterials Synthesized?
There are
various methods to synthesize nanomaterials, broadly categorized into two approaches: top-down and bottom-up.
Top-down methods involve breaking down bulk materials into nanoscale structures using techniques like lithography and ball milling. In contrast,
bottom-up methods, such as chemical vapor deposition and sol-gel processes, involve assembling nanomaterials from atomic or molecular components.
What are the Applications of Nanomaterials?
Nanomaterials have a wide range of applications across multiple fields. In
medicine, they are used for targeted drug delivery and imaging. In
electronics, they contribute to the development of smaller, faster, and more efficient components.
Energy applications include enhancing the efficiency of solar cells and batteries. Additionally, nanomaterials are used in
environmental remediation to remove pollutants from water and air.
