Description: Nanotechnology refers to the manipulation of matter at the atomic, molecular, and supramolecular scale, allowing for the creation of materials and devices with unique properties. This interdisciplinary field combines principles from physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering to develop innovative solutions across various areas. By precisely manipulating structures at the nanoscale (1 to 100 nanometers), enhanced characteristics such as increased strength, lightweight, electrical conductivity, and optical properties can be achieved. Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize entire industries, from medicine to electronics, by enabling the creation of more efficient and sustainable products. Its relevance today is reflected in the search for solutions to global issues such as climate change and resource scarcity, offering more sustainable and effective alternatives. In the context of advanced manufacturing, nanotechnology integrates with emerging technologies like robotics and the Internet of Things, facilitating the creation of intelligent and autonomous systems that optimize processes and improve quality of life.
History: The term ‘nanotechnology’ was coined by scientist K. Eric Drexler in 1986 in his book ‘Engines of Creation’. However, the foundations of nanotechnology date back to the 1950s when Richard Feynman, in his famous talk ‘There’s Plenty of Room at the Bottom’, proposed the idea of manipulating atoms and molecules. Since then, the field has evolved significantly, with advances in characterization and manufacturing techniques at the nanoscale. In 2000, the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) was established in the United States, marking a milestone in the research and development of this technology.
Uses: Nanotechnology has applications across multiple sectors, including medicine, where it is used for the development of drug delivery systems and targeted therapies. In the electronics industry, it enables the creation of smaller and more efficient components, such as transistors and integrated circuits. It is also applied in the manufacturing of stronger and lighter materials, as well as in the improvement of renewable energy processes, such as solar conversion. In the environmental field, it is used for the remediation of pollutants and the development of filtration technologies.
Examples: An example of nanotechnology in medicine is the use of nanoparticles for the targeted delivery of drugs to cancer cells, which increases treatment efficacy and reduces side effects. In the electronics industry, graphene transistors, which operate at the nanoscale, have enabled the creation of faster and more efficient devices. In the sustainability field, nanomaterials have been developed to improve the efficiency of solar panels, increasing their energy conversion capacity.
