nanoscience and carbon allotropes

what is nanoscience?

the study of nanoparticles. nanoparticles are structures in between 1nm and 100nm in size

why do nanoparticles behave differently to the bulk materials?

nanoparticles have a higher surface area to volume ratio, and there are more atoms on the surface. a smaller amount of substance is needed as there’s a higher fraction of particles on the surface

what are some uses of nanoparticles?

• delivery of drugs - using nanoparticles can reduce the amount of drug needed, and reduce any side effects. (e.g gold nanoparticles)

• sun creams - nanoparticles of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are used to absorb harmful UV radiation in sun creams, giving better skin coverage

• plasters, deodorants and socks - silver nanoparticles have antibacterial properties, and also reduce odors.

what are carbon nanotubes?

cylindrical fullerenes, that have a very high length to diameter ratio. they can also be thought of being rubes of graphene sheets. they have a high tensile strength due to their many strong covalent bonds, and high thermal/electrical conductance, as some of the electrons are delocalised. they can be used to make tennis rackets and golf clubs.

what are fullerenes?

they are molecules of carbon atoms with hollow shapes. they form spheres and tubes. they can be used to deliver drugs, as they are hollow, and have a huge surface area, which can be used to make industrial catalysts. their round shape makes great lubricants

what are the properties of graphene?

• strong - giant covalent structure

• thin - one atom thick

• thermal/electrical conductor - has delocalised electrons malleable

• semi see through, as its thin