Description: The scale of measurement that refers to structures between 1 and 100 nanometers, known as ‘nanoscale’, is fundamental in the field of nanotechnology. At this scale, the physical and chemical properties of materials can differ significantly from those at larger scales. This is because, at the nanoscale, the surface-to-volume ratio changes, which can result in unique characteristics such as increased reactivity, changes in electrical conductivity, and unusual optical properties. Nanoscale is crucial for the development of new materials and devices, enabling innovations in various areas such as medicine, electronics, and energy. For example, in various technological applications, nanoscale components can enhance the efficiency and functionality of systems, while in quantum computing, qubits can be fabricated at this scale to leverage the quantum properties of materials. Research in this area continues to expand, opening new possibilities for sustainable and efficient applications in the future.
History: The term ‘nanoscale’ began to gain popularity in the 1980s when scientists started exploring the properties of materials at the nanoscale. In 1981, the scanning tunneling microscope (STM) allowed researchers to observe and manipulate individual atoms, marking a milestone in nanotechnology. Over the years, research in this area has grown exponentially, leading to the creation of new materials and applications across various disciplines.
Uses: Nanoscale is used in a variety of applications, including the manufacture of nanomaterials, which are essential in medicine for drug delivery, in electronics for creating smaller and more efficient devices, and in energy to improve the efficiency of solar cells. It is also applied in robotics, where nanoscale components can enhance the precision and functionality of systems.
Examples: An example of the use of nanoscale is in the creation of gold nanoparticles used in cancer treatments to target drugs directly to tumor cells. Another example is the use of carbon nanotubes in the manufacture of electronic devices, allowing for the creation of smaller and more efficient transistors. In the field of sustainability, nanomaterials are being developed to improve the efficiency of solar cells, increasing their light absorption capacity.
