Nanoparticles research is widely getting popularised due to the reason that they can be easily changed by altering their shapes and sizes. The physical properties of nanoparticles also affect their chemical integrity and can be thus molded into any sort of particle with the desired chemical configuration by changing their sizes. They also have unexpected optical properties and can produce quantum effects on a large scale.
It has been nearly 20 years since the basic nanoscience research was set up. After all these years and a dedicated R&D towards nanoparticles, these tiny particles are now ready to deliver the results and are being applied in different fields.
Many industry verticals have revolutionized since the introduction of nanoparticles; Common industry sectors include homeland security, information technology, medicine, transportation, food, environmental science, etc.
Here are some of the benefits of nanoparticles in different sectors of everyday life:
Nanoparticles in everyday life
Nanoparticles are being used extensively in various industries because they can be tailored at extremely small scales to achieve specific properties. Nanotechnology helps the substances to become lighter, stronger, and more durable. For example, silicon and nickel nanoparticles are widely used rather than their common forms. Silicon nanoparticles in particular are used for their electrical conductivity.
A normal silicon substance is also a good semiconductor but when converted into nanoparticles its conduction power increases multifold. Nanoparticles are used in everyday life also. Here are some common examples:
- Nanoparticles additives when used on the surface of the fabric inhibit bacterial growth thus making them safer to wear.
- Nanoscale films are used on lenses, computer screens, camera displays, and other screens to make them crystal clear and give sharpness to the screen. Nanoparticle coating on the screens also makes them water-resistant, dust repellant, anti reflective, and antimicrobial.
- Nanoscale additives are also used in the automobile industry. Reducing the weight of the vehicles will help them to have a greater mileage. Nanoparticles are lightweight and yet durable and strong enough to sustain any kind of impact or accident. Thus they are used in the manufacturing of automobile parts. They are also used for manufacturing baseball bats, tennis rackets, bicycles, and motorcycle helmets.
- Nano engineering is expanding its grasp towards the conversion of fuel and energy. It is being used to convert the cellulose from the plants such as perennial grass to fuel. Although this is not a direct process. The cellulose is first converted into ethanol and then to fuel. Also, cellulosic nanomaterials have the potential to be used in different industry sectors. It can be used in the electronics sector to make ICs, in the construction sector for strength reinforcement, in the packaging sector for compact spacing, and in the energy sector for enhanced efficiency. These nanoparticles are also cheaper than the normal nanoparticles and have a better strength to weight ratio.
- With the shift towards a greener and sustainable environment, EVs (electric vehicles) have been gaining traction among consumers in recent years. Nanoparticles can be a great catalyst for electrical vehicles thus contributing towards a cleaner ecosystem. It can generate high-powered charge cycles in rechargeable batteries reducing their charging time and extending their period of usage. It can also keep the higher temperatures of these batteries in check. This will prevent heat dissipation and energy loss to an extent.
- Nanoparticles are also present in normal household items such as degreasers and stain removers. Due to their antibacterial properties, they are used in the manufacturing of air purifiers, environmental sensors, filters, and cleansers. They are also used in house paints that resist dirt and are self-cleaning.
