Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology

the science and application of manipulating materials and devices at the nanoscale (1–100 nm).

• Electronics: Smaller, faster microchips

• Clothing: Stain- and wrinkle-resistant fabrics

• Health: Zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreen

• Energy: Efficient solar cells and batteries

Examples of nanotechnology:

Richard Feynman (1956)

Proposed atom manipulation (“Plenty of Room at the Bottom”)

Norio Taniguchi (1974)

Coined the term Nanotechnology

Binnig & Rohrer (1981)

Invented the Scanning Tunneling Microscope

Sumio Iijima (1991)

Discovered carbon nanotubes

• Research: Develop new materials and processes.

• Process Design: Plan efficient, safe methods for production.

• Scaling Up: Transform lab-scale nanotech into industrial systems.

• Industry Application: Maintain sustainability and mass production efficiency.

What are the CONTRIBUTIONS OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERS in Nanotechnology?

Nanofiltration (NF) Membranes

• Pores <10 nm

• Filters salts, dyes, viruses, bacteria

Nanosorbents

• High-surface nanomaterials

• Adsorb trace pollutants quickly

Nanophotocatalysts

• TiO₂ nanoparticles activated by sunlight

• Break down pollutants and kill microbes

• Testing Efficiency & Safety: Use fluid dynamics, mass transfer, reaction kinetics

• Designing Systems: Create and optimize membrane processes

• Scaling Up: Apply purification systems at industrial level

What are the Role of Chemical Engineers in Nanotechnology?

Prof. Robert S. Langer (MIT, USA)

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for cancer therapy and vaccines

Dr. Muhammad Azizur Rahman (Bangladesh)

Expert in precision nano-machining and Industry 4.0 manufacturing

Dr. Juvy J. Monserate (UP Diliman, PH)

Works on nanomaterials for water purification, health, and sustainability

• Agriculture: use of nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides. 

• Environment: nanomembranes and adsorbents for wastewater treatment and pollution control. 

• Health: nanoparticle-based diagnostics. 

• Materials: nanosilica and nanocomposites for construction and packaging industries.

What are its industry applications?

• Opportunities: abundant local raw materials, and alignment with sustainability needs. 

• Challenges: high infrastructure costs, limited commercialization pathways, shortage of nanotech specialists, and evolving safety regulations.

What are its Opportunities & Challenges  ?