Nanoparticles

nano

1-100nm

1nm

10^-9m

Why are nanoparticles used in smaller quantities than bulk materials?

• high surface area to volume ratio

• more atoms at the surface

Catalysts

high SA:V

more reactive than bulk

Reinforcing sports equipment

very strong but light

Nanomedicine

small particles can enter bloodstream

targets specific tissue and easy to absorb

Silver nanoparticles

have antibacterial properties

used as coating for keyboards, textiles and biomedical devices

release low levels of silver

Electric circuits

small circuits in computer chips

conduct electricity

Cosmetics

can help absorb moisture and be coated with silica for UV protection at no extra weight

Possible risks: Large SA

dangerous since an accidental spark near lots of catalyst can set off a violent explosion

Possible risks: getting into atmosphere

Could damage lungs/blood infection

effects are unpredictable due to limited research

Possible risks: Damage to aquatic life

washing clothes with silver nanoparticles

accumulate in aquatic environments; rivers

Possible risks: Limited research

most side effects are unknown so may be extremely harmful

Future uses

• nanowires

  • small circuits to improve computer capacity and memory

• nanosuits

  • very light and strong

  • nano biosensors can send medical info