Physics - Nanotechnology

Introduction

• Nanotechnology is the science of management and manipulation of atoms and molecules to design a new technology.

• Nanotechnology is the supramolecular technology, which means, it is the engineering of functional systems at the molecular or supramolecular scale.

• Interestingly, one nanometer (nm) is equal to one billionth, or 10−9, of a meter.

• The concept and idea of nanotechnology original discussed first time in 1959 by Richard Feynman, the renowned physicist.

• Richard Feynman in his talk “There's Plenty of Room at the Bottom,” described the feasibility of synthesis via direct manipulation of atoms.

• However, in 1974, the term "Nano-technology" was first used by Norio Taniguchi.

Major fields of Research

• Following are the major fields in which nanotechnology is being researched −

  • Advance computing − Developing super computer

  • Electronics − developing conductors and semi-conductors

  • Medicines − Developing technology to treat cancer (especially breast cancer)

  • Textile Engineering − Nanofabrication, etc.

Application of Nanotechnology

• Following are the major application of nanotechnology −

  • Manufacturing of lifesaving medical robots

  • Making available the networked computers for everyone in the world

  • Plant networked cameras to watch everyone’s movement (very helpful for the administrative service and maintaining the law and order.

  • Manufacturing untraceable weapons of mass destruction.

  • Swift inventions of many wonderful products useful in everyday life.

• Likewise, the molecular technology has range of potentials that benefit to humankind; however, at the same time, it also brings severe dangers. Untraceable weapon of mass destruction is an ideal example of its deadliness.

Major Branches of Nanotechnology

• Following are the major branches of nanotechnology −

  • Nanoelectronics

  • Nanomechanics

  • Nanophotonics

  • Nanoionics

Contributory Disciplines of Nanotechnology

• Following are the major disciplines that integrated into the development of science of nanotechnology −

  • Surface science

  • Organic chemistry

  • Molecular biology

  • Semiconductor physics

  • Microfabrication

  • Molecular engineering

Implication of Nanotechnology

• Every coin has two faces, similarly, the application of nanotechnology at industrial scale i.e. manufacturing nanomaterials might have negative implications on human health as well as on the environment.

• The workers who especially work in such industry where non materials are used, are more vulnerable, as they inhale airborne nanoparticles and nanofibers. These Nano materials may lead to a number of pulmonary diseases, including fibrosis, etc.