Nanoparticles are particles with at least one dimension less than 100 nanometers. They exhibit unique physical and chemical properties due to their small size and high surface area to volume ratio. These properties make them highly valuable for various applications in medicine, electronics, energy, and materials science.
Nanoparticles can be synthesized using various methods, broadly categorized into top-down and bottom-up approaches. Top-down methods involve breaking down bulk materials into nanoparticles, while bottom-up methods involve assembling nanoparticles from atomic or molecular components. Techniques such as chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel processing, and ball milling are commonly used.
One primary challenge is the toxicity and environmental impact of nanoparticles. Their small size allows them to interact with biological systems in unpredictable ways, raising concerns about health risks. Additionally, the scalability of nanoparticle production and the cost of manufacturing remain significant hurdles.
