When you hear the word “nanotechnology,” does science fiction spring to mind? Actually, nanotechnology is an element of our daily lives; it makes our way of life easier. Nanotechnology is essentially the science of working with matter on an atomic and molecular scale. Scientists can use nanotechnology to produce new materials that can be applied and used in a variety of ways.
The practical side of nanotechnology
To present you with an example of how nanotechnology can effect your daily life here is an article that Science Daily ran last month. The article states that scientists are developing a way to use nanotechnology to lessen the amount of friction in car engines and machines. This technology might make machines operate more proficiently; prolonging their lives. According to the article, tiny polymer particles were created and dispersed in oils used in automobile engines. They were then tested in conditions similar to car engines and found to reduce friction substantially.
More efficient motors
Even when distributed at low concentrations they diminished friction tremendously, much more so then the friction additives currently being used in many industries today. How much more do they reduce friction? By about 55 percent more! Nanotechnology is a expanding industry so expect more findings like this. In fact it is growing so fast that the United States recently released a national strategy to make sure that environmental, health, and safety research needs are addressed in the field.
The emerging world of nanotechnology
If you feel, then, that nanotechnology is only good for Hollywood special effects blockbusters; just take a close look at your car’s engine. One day, nanotechnology may leave you with an engine that uses less gas. That, of course, can leave you with a fatter wallet, and you’ll be able to thank nanotechnology for this.
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