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INTRODUCTION
Definition: Nanotechnology is the study of the control of matter on an atomic and molecular scale.
Nanotechnology uses techniques, processes and materials at the supramolecular level, approximately in a range between 1-100 nanometers (nm), in order to create new properties and to stimulate particular desired functionalities.
Carbon nanotubes
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are allotropes of carbon with a cylindrical nanostructure Nanotubes are members of the fullerene structural family, which also includes the spherical buckyballs. Their name is derived from their size, since the diameter of a nanotube is on the order of a few nanometers (approximately 1/50,000th of the width of a human hair), while they can be up to several millimeters in length (as of 2008) The nature of the bonding of a nanotube is described by applied quantum chemistry, specifically, orbital hybridization. The chemical bonding of nanotubes is composed entirely of sp2 bonds, similar to those of graphite. This bonding structure, which is stronger than the sp3 bonds found in diamonds, provides the molecules with their unique strength. Nanotubes naturally align themselves into "ropes" held together by Van der Waals forces. Multi-walled nanotubes (MWNT) consist of multiple rolled layers (concentric tubes) of graphite. There are two models which can be used to describe the structures of multi-walled nanotubes. In the Russian Doll model, sheets of graphite are arranged in concentric cylinders.
SINGLE WALLED
MULTI WALLED
Molecular manufacturing
Molecular manufacturing, is a term given to the concept of engineered nanosystems (nanoscale machines) operating on the molecular scale. It is especially associated with the concept of a molecular assembler, a machine that can produce a desired structure or device atom-by-atom using the principles of mechanosynthesis. Molecular manufacturing also has the potential to revolutionize medicine. For example, sensors that are smaller than blood cells could be produced inexpensively. When released into a patient's blood stream in large numbers, these sensors could provide very accurate diagnoses. Nanorobots could be built using molecular manufacturing to perform surgical procedures in a more precise way.
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials is a field which takes a materials science-based approach to nanotechnology. It studies materials with morphological features on the nanoscale, and especially those which have special properties stemming from their nanoscale dimensions.
Nanoparticles or nanocrystals made of metals, semiconductors, or oxides are of particular interest for their mechanical, electrical, magnetic, optical, chemical and other properties. Nanoparticles have been used as quantum dots and as chemical catalysts.
TYPES OF NANOMATERIALS
Properties of nanomaterials
Large fraction of surface atoms. High surface energy. Spatial confinement. Reduced imperfections. High Youngs modulus and high tensile strength. Improve adhesion. Durability, and abrasion resistance. Extreme high thermal conductivity in axial directions, leaving high anisotropy in the heat transport in the materials.
Application of nanomaterials
Sunscreens and Cosmetics : Nanosized titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are currently used in some sunscreens, as they absorb and reflect ultraviolet (UV) rays and yet are transparent to visible light and so are more appealing to the consumer. Composites : An important use of nanoparticles and nanotubes is in composites, materials that combine one or more separate components and which are designed to exhibit overall the best properties of each component. This multi-functionality applies not only to mechanical properties, but extends to optical, electrical and magnetic ones. Phosphors for High-Definition TV. Elimination of Pollutants. High-Sensitivity Sensors.
APPLICATIONS
Nanotechnology in Medicine
Employing nano-particles to deliver drugs, heat, light or other substances to specific cells in the human body. Engineering particles to be used in this way allows detection and/or treatment of diseases or injuries within the targeted cells, thereby minimizing the damage to healthy cells in the body. Development nanocrystalline silver is already being used as a antimicrobial agent in the treatment of wounds. Nanotubes used in broken bones to provide a structure for new bone material to grow. Nanoparticles that can attach to cells infected with various diseases and allow a doctor to identify, in a blood sample, the particular disease. Nanoshells that concentrate the heat from infrared light to destroy cancer cells with minimal damage to surrounding healthy cells. For a good visual explanation of nanoshells.
The Future
The potential effects of nanotechnology on construction are largely unknown. Advances are due to arrive within the next 5 years. Intelligent buildings where the sensors and integrated control of the building give them self monitoring and management abilities. Self assembling buildings, where the materials have become smart enough to build a project simply by being piled together. Changes brought by nanotechnology could lead to dramatic effects and opportunities in the built environment.
References
http://www.understandingnano.com/space.html http://www.understandingnano.com/solar-cell-efficiency-quantum-dot.html http://www.understandingnano.com/solarcells.html http://www.understandingnano.com/fuel-cells.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purified_water http://www.nanowerk.com/nanotechnology/introduction/introduction_to_nanotechn ology_1.html http://www.understandingnano.com/nanotubes-carbon.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_nanotube
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