The annealing process involves several key steps: 1. Heating: The nanomaterial is heated to a specific temperature, often below its melting point, to facilitate atomic diffusion without causing significant structural changes. 2. Holding: The material is held at this temperature for a defined period, allowing the atoms to rearrange and reduce defects. 3. Cooling: Controlled cooling is essential to prevent the formation of new defects and to lock in the improved properties.