Introduction to Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials are substances with unique properties that differ from bulk materials due to their small size (1-100 nanometers)[i]. They have gained significant attention for their potential to revolutionize various industries including energy, environmental protection, biomedicine, and cosmetics. In this blog post, we'll delve into important nanomaterials, such as nanoiron, nano zinc oxide, and more, and understand their properties, benefits, and potential applications.
Nanoiron - A Key Nanomaterial
Nanoiron refers to iron particles in the nanoscale range, having distinctive properties making it useful in applications such as energy, environmental protection, and biomedicine. For instance, nanoiron can improve the efficiency of chemical reactions (such as those used in hydrogen fuel cells) as a catalyst. It also has the potential to remove heavy metal ions from contaminated water, making it a suitable candidate for environmental remediation.[ii][iii][iv]
Nanoiron's high surface area-to-volume ratio makes it highly reactive, meaning it can be used in smaller quantities, making it cost-effective and eco-friendly. It also has biocompatibility, making it a useful material for drug delivery and tissue engineering in biomedicine.
Nano Zinc Oxide - A Versatile Nanomaterial
Nano zinc oxide consists of zinc oxide particles in the nanoscale range and has properties useful in a variety of applications, such as sunscreens, rubber, plastics, and animal feed additives. It's notable property of blocking UV light makes it a vital ingredient in sunscreens. It also improves the mechanical properties of rubber and plastic, making them durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Nano zinc oxide is biocompatible and non-toxic, making it safe for use in animal feed additives and improving the health and wellbeing of livestock. Its antibacterial properties make it useful in food packaging, extending the shelf life of perishable products.[v][vi][vii]
Other Significant Nanomaterials
Apart from nanoiron and nano zinc oxide, there are several other nanomaterials like nanoparticles of gold, silver, and carbon, each with unique properties and potential applications depending on size and composition. For instance, gold nanoparticles have potential in medical imaging, while silver nanoparticles have antimicrobial properties useful in textiles and sanitizers.
Nanoparticles of carbon, such as graphene, have received widespread attention due to their potential in energy and electronics. Graphene's exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity make it useful in applications like batteries and flexible electronics.
The Future of Nanomaterials
The nanomaterials field is rapidly advancing, with ongoing research to discover new applications and improve existing ones. Despite some challenges, the future of nanomaterials looks promising with many exciting developments in the pipeline. Researchers are working on developing eco-friendly and sustainable nanomaterials and improving existing materials for efficiency and effectiveness.
In energy, nanomaterials have the potential to transform energy production and storage, making it cleaner and sustainable. For example, nanoiron can improve hydrogen fuel cells, while carbon nanoparticles can develop advanced, high energy density batteries.
In medicine, nanomaterials can revolutionize diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Gold nanoparticles can be used for medical imaging, while nano zinc oxide has potential in wound healing and drug delivery.
Nanomaterials also have the potential to enhance product performance and sustainability, reducing their impact on the environment in industries such as consumer goods and packaging. For instance, nano zinc oxide can extend the shelf life of perishable products, making them safer for consumption and reducing food waste.
Final Thoughts
Nanomaterials are an intriguing and rapidly evolving field with boundless potential to positively impact energy, environment, biomedicine, and consumer goods. It's crucial to continue researching and developing these materials sustainably. The future of nanomaterials is bright, and we can expect exciting developments in the years ahead.
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[i] https://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/nanotech/faq/definition_en.htm
[ii] LOPEZ G. D. (2018). Nanoiron for Site Remediation: Bench Scale Assessment and Field Applications.
[iii] LÓPEZ G. D., SENN A.M., CRESPI J., QUICI N., LITTER M.I. (2017). Iron based nanoparticles for mitigation of environmental liabilities due to uranium mining. 17° Congreso Internacional de Metalurgia y Materiales CONAMET-SAM. Copiapó, Chile
[iv] MORGADA, M.; LEVY, I.; SALOMONE, V.; FARIAS, S.; LOPEZ, G. D.; LITTER, M. (2009). Arsenic (V) removal with nanoparticulate zerovalent iron: effect of UV light and humic acids. Catalysis Today, Elsevier; v. 143, n. 3-4, p.261-268.
[v] https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/zinc-oxide/fr/l-2/3.htm
[vi] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/zinc-oxide-nanoparticle#:~:text=Zinc%20oxide%20nanoparticle%20has%20an,et%20al.%2C%202014).
[vii] https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jia-Lu-2/publication/252718057_Conduction_Mechanisms_in_Zinc_Oxide_Nanowires/links/5667899408ae8905db8bc3b8/Conduction-Mechanisms-in-Zinc-Oxide-Nanowires.pdf