Chapter 9

The Nano World

What is Nanotechnology?

Nano is a prefix used in the metric scale to represent one billionth of a meter. It comes from the Greek
word for dwarf and applies science and materials at the nanoscale. People refer to it as “tiny tech” or
“nanotech”.

Nanotechnology is gaining popularity due to its unique properties and behavior. Nanoparticles have
more surface area than larger particles, allowing for less material to be used for applications, saving
resources, energy and money. This has both economic and environmental benefits. (Explain and expand
the significant contribution of Nanotechnology.)

Working with matter on a small scale is a revolution in technology, as it reveals novel physical, chemical,
and biological properties compared to their bulk counterpart. (Explain and expand how does small scale
in a revolution in technology.)

Applications of Nanotechnology in All Fields of Science

Nanotechnology has seen commercial applications in the early 2000s, with thousands of researchers
focusing on the applications. Rapid progress in the synthesis and understanding of nanomaterials has led
to their entry into the world in a big way.

Applications of Nanotechnology in All Fields of Science

1. Electronics
Nanotechnology-based SETs, spin valves and MTs are being used in personal computers to increase data
storage capacity of hard discs. (Explain and give example/s at least one)
2. Energy
Metal hydride nanoparticles, aerogels, and carbon nanomaterials have been used to improve the
efficacy of lithium secondary batteries, super capacitors, and hydrogen storage.(Explain and give other
examples)
3. Environment
Efficient production of nanomaterials using low temperature synthesis can reduce industrial pollution
and reduce pollution from vehicles. They are lightweight and need only small quantities, making them
affordable.
Nanomaterials-based sensors are being developed to detect and rectify problems in water purification
systems, toxic ions, metal ions, pesticides, and larger scale remediation.
4. Automobiles
Nanosensors will help in assessing emissions from the vehicle and help in controlling pollutants.(Give
examples or explain furtherly)

To combat population caused by vehicles, use of efficient nanomaterial catalysts is one solution that can
convert harmful emissions into less harmful gases. (Explain more how does nanomaterials helps to
overcome/combat population caused by vehicles.)
5. Agriculture and Foods
Nanotechnology can be applied in combating plant diseases, such as:
 Controlled delivery of Functional Molecules
  As a diagnostic tool for disease detection
(Explain and give examples)
6. Industries
Semiconductors and magnetic nanostructures are used in semiconductor fabrication, electronics, and
nanostructure-based electro-optic devices. Nanosensors and actuators are one of the major activities of
nano-based industries, while molecular electronics is also being developed.
Industries are also developing and producing nanomaterials to obtain nano-bioproducts for bone
substitutes, dentistry, antimicrobial applications, food and cosmetic applications, textiles, paints,
catalysis, lubricants, fuel cells and batteries.
7. Textiles
Nanotechnology is used in the textile industry to create special threads and dyes that do not require
ironing or frequent cleaning. Silver (Ag) nanoparticles in washing machines remove germs, masks made
of fabrics coated with nanoparticles are already on the market, piezoelectric fibers can generate
electricity, and proteins can stretch up to 1500 percent. (Further explain if possible)
8. Cosmetics
Nanoliposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), and dendrimers are used in vesicular delivery systems,
perfume formulations, and mascara and nail polish. Liposomes are concentric bilayer vesicles, while
SLNs are nm-sized particles with a solid lipid matrix.(Explain more of possible)
9. Domestic Appliances
Nanoporous aerogel insulators, flame-retardant furniture coatings, fishing rods made stronger and
lighter with silica nanoparticles, and antimicrobial titanium oxide nanoparticles are used in various
applications to kill bacteria.(Explain more if possible)
10. Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Nanomedicine researchers are exploring ways to improve vaccine delivery and create a universal vaccine
scaffold to cover more strains and require fewer resources.
Gold nanoparticles are being used as probes for nucleic acid detection and as potential treatments for
cancer and other diseases. One technique mimics HDL cholesterol, which helps to shrink plaque.
Nanotechnology is being studied for both diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.(Explain or give
more examples if possible)

Environmental Aspects of Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology has many applications that benefit the environment, such as treating drinking water,
eliminating toxic chemicals, increasing water and energy efficiency, and harnessing cleaner energy
technologies. However, it is unclear how nanomaterials can affect the environment, such as entering the
food supply or affecting forests, coral reefs, or air quality.

Will there be a nano-environmental legacy? Are nanomaterials already entering the environment in
ways that will allow them to persist and enter or upset the food chain?
Will nanomaterials follow the path of other legacy pollutants, such as lead? How will this be determined
if data are not being collected? Nanomaterials are entering the environment in small amounts, but as
more applications adopt nanotechnology, the production, uses, and releases of nanoparticles will
drastically increase. Data is not being collected to determine if nanomaterials will follow the path of
other legacy pollutants, such as lead.
Further examples:
 It is important to keep surfaces sanitary and free from contamination in a hospital environment.
Nanomaterials can be used as disinfectants, but they can be released into the environment
 when they are washed away with water or flushed down drains. This could affect drinking water
sources and oceans.
 Triclosan is a consumer-used chemical found in rivers and drinking water sources. Bacteria
exposed to pesticides and medical antibiotics have become resistant to antibiotics, leading to
outbreaks that cannot be managed. This is a big problem as bacteria are no longer susceptible to
the treatments developed to kill them.

Nanotechnology in the Philippines

 The government announced a 10-year strategic plan in 2011 to develop a nanotechnology R&D
strategy covering six industrial sectors. (Elaborate the six industrial sectors)
 DOST-PCASTRD’s mandate is to develop, integrate, and coordinate national research. Flagship
projects include chemical sensors and biosensors based on nanostructured solar energy devices.
PCASTRD also provides funds for scholarships and research fellowships.
 Funded nano projects in agriculture include rapid and early pest and pathogen detection,
precision agriculture, post-harvest quality monitoring, nano-sized feedstock, nano-sized
fertilizers/nutrients, and pesticides.
 Research into nanocomposite films and membranes aims to extend the shelf-life of produce, aid
the clarification of juices, and improve whey protein production.
 Seedgrowth, a plant supplement composed of nano-sized fruit extracts and microorganisms,
was developed in the Philippines and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and increases
crop yield.
 There is no nano specific regulation in the Philippines.(Explain why)

Risks of Nanotechnology
 Nanotechnology poses risks to human health and the environment, with engineered
nanomaterials and nanoproducts similar to exhaustion particles from engines
combustion and carbon nanotubes similar to asbestos fibers. These materials can cause
adverse effects such as cancer and asbestosis.
Other Risks of Nanotechnology in various aspects/fields:
 Genetics/Medicine/Healthcare
 Nanotechnology artifacts can incorporate genetic material or have genetic modification or
repair as an objective. If the artifact incorporates computing and sensing elements,
additional risks arise for the patient.
 Invasion of privacy and of the human body has been done through the planting and
implanting of computing-cum-communication devices without the knowledge of those
affected.
 Controlled distribution of biological and nerve agents may become feasible in warfare.
 Materials/Composites
 Composite materials are more difficult to recycle and consume more energy than pure
materials, leading to increased environmental problems.
 Processes must be redesigned to contain active or waste products.(Explain furtherly)

Nanotechnology and Education

 The cost of creating and maintaining nanotechnology facilities is a major challenge for
educational institutions.
To address this, innovative approaches such as inter-university collaboration, academia-industry
partnerships, and Web-based remote access to nanofabrication facilities can be used. To
 develop a skilled workforce, new interdisciplinary educational programs must be developed and
revised.

Economic and political implications of potential technology

 Nanotechnology has created new materials and industries, as well as economic dislocations due
to shifts in investment and the decline of industries and companies. It has also enabled
increased lifespans, leading to greater numbers of senior citizens seeking employment and
active participation in the political process.

Nanotechnology and Employment

 Nanotechnology has a high tech and sophisticated nature, which has deepened the trend to
reducing workforces and automating production and services. Nanotechnology products have
multiple functions, remain useful longer, and use fewer raw materials, leading to decreased
demand for workers and reduced demand for traditional products. These innovations reduce
the demand for traditional products that compete with them.

Social, Ethical, Legal and Cultural Implications

 The social, ethical, legal and cultural implications of nanotechnology include issues such as
privacy, avoiding a ‘nano-divide’, unintended consequences, university/industry relationships
and potential conflicts of interest. It is widely acknowledged that the ethical issues must be
addressed now before they overwhelm nanotechnology and derail potential benefits.

Note: Explain furtherly if possible. You may see the module’s content for reference if the summarized
topics aren’t enough. Research is a must!