Description: Nanomaterials are materials that exhibit structural characteristics at the nanoscale, specifically in the range of 1 to 100 nanometers. This scale is crucial because at the nanoscale, materials display unique properties that are not found in their macroscopic form. These properties can include increased strength, enhanced electrical conductivity, unusual optical properties, and superior chemical reactivity. Manipulating matter at this scale allows for the creation of materials with tailored characteristics, opening up a wide range of possibilities in various industrial and technological applications. In the context of advanced technologies, nanomaterials are fundamental for the development of new products and processes that integrate innovations such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT). Furthermore, their potential in technological singularity lies in their ability to transform entire industries, from medicine to energy, by enabling innovations that were previously unimaginable. In terms of sustainability, nanomaterials can contribute to creating more efficient and less polluting solutions, promoting a more responsible and environmentally friendly development.
History: The concept of nanomaterials began to take shape in the 1980s, although the idea of manipulating matter at the atomic level dates back much further. In 1981, Swiss physicist Gerd Binnig and German physicist Heinrich Rohrer developed the scanning tunneling microscope (STM), which allowed for the observation and manipulation of individual atoms. However, it was in 1991 that the term ‘nanotechnology’ was popularized by scientist K. Eric Drexler in his book ‘Engines of Creation’. Since then, research on nanomaterials has grown exponentially, driven by advances in synthesis and characterization techniques.
Uses: Nanomaterials have a wide range of applications across various industries. In medicine, they are used for the development of drug delivery systems, where medications are encapsulated in nanoparticles to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects. In electronics, nanomaterials such as graphene are employed in the manufacturing of smaller and more efficient devices. In the energy sector, they are used in solar cells and batteries to improve efficiency and storage capacity. Additionally, in the materials industry, they are incorporated into the creation of more durable and lightweight coatings.
Examples: A notable example of a nanomaterial is graphene, which is used in the manufacturing of advanced electronic devices due to its high conductivity and strength. Another example is the use of silver nanoparticles in antimicrobial products, which are applied in textiles and cleaning products to prevent bacterial growth. In the energy sector, titanium dioxide nanoparticles are used in solar cells to increase solar energy conversion efficiency.
