Nanomaterials
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| Context of nanomaterials introduction |
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Scientists in the disciplines of chemistry, physics and biology have studied and worked for over 100 years with objects that have nanoscale dimensions. |
In the chemical field, materials having such minute structures are found to often exhibit different properties compared to "traditional bulk materials” made from the same chemical constituents. For example, nanomaterials may offer different mechanical, optical, chemical magnetic or electronic properties not found in the bulk materials. The ability to selectively manage the size of nano-scaled materials now allows the chemical industry to develop materials with new properties that offer significant advantages in our macroscopic world.
| An innovation driver |
Examples of the innovative use of nanomaterials already on the market include: sunscreens, plastics with higher eco-efficiency, corrosion resistant coatings, lighter and stronger composites for cars, etc. Nanotechnology has the potential to open up new perspectives to economic, environmental and social benefits and is an innovation driver offering significant opportunities for sustainable development, growth and employment in Europe.
The chemical industry produces various nanomaterials that may be used as raw materials for nanotechnology applications including nanostructured materials, nanostructured surfaces as well as nanoparticles. Nanomaterials are organic or inorganic particles with at least two dimensions below 100 nm. In general, these nanoparticles do not exist as individual particles but as aggregates or agglomerates of larger size, or in the case of composites, bound in a matrix.
| What is nanotechnology ? |
Nanotechnology is the characterization, design, production and use of structures and systems that require exact control of the size and form on the nanometer scale. Nanotechnologies have the potential to influence developments in almost all sectors of technology. They will facilitate the development of novel applications for very different aspects of our daily lives from biomedical advances to applications in information technology.
Further reading:
- Cefic Position on nanomaterials and nanotechnologies
- Cefic Strategy on nanomaterials and nanotechnologies
- European Commission: Introduction to nanotechnologies
- Nanoforum - European Nanotechnology Gateway
- Nanotechnology Homepage of the European Commission
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