A6 Nanotechnology

Nanoparticles range in size up to no more than 100nm (10-7m)\textsf{(10}^\textsf{-7}\textsf{m)}

The properties of materials produced as nanoparticles can be extraordinary.

Because of this new technology is developing very quickly in the 21st century.

Nanotechnology already finds applications in many fields including:

  • Sports equipment: tennis rackets, golf clubs and shoes – where strength of material is important.

  • Antibacterial and anti-fungal protection: Silver nanoparticles are added to the textile fibres in bandages, plasters and sportswear.

  • Healthcare: Nano diamonds with proteins attached help increase bone growth around dental or joint implants. Nanoparticles also have great potential and could be used to introduce extremely small doses of medicines and vaccines direct to cells. Current research suggests this may be useful in treating tumours and leukaemia.

  • Cosmetics and sunscreens: They offer protection without leaving white marks.

  • Electronics:

    • i. a process to manufacture low cost solar cells

    • ii. in the manufacture of the anodes of lithium-ion batteries increasing battery power and reducing recharge time.

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