Knowing a lot about very little

摘要

The ability to manipulate and control a variety of nanoparticles has revolutionised science in the past three decades.From creating entirely new materials,to understanding the structures behind unusual scientific properties,the relatively new field of nanotechnology is being implemented into our daily lives and has massive potential for the future.Nanoparticles arc particles between 1 and 100 nanometres in size,and can be found naturally or can be artificially produced These are being used to engineer new materials and nanotechnologies across a variety of sectors.The small size of these particles means they have a very high surface area to volume ratio,and thus their properties depend strongly on their size,shape and bound molecules.The options for variables that can be altered to define the properties offer engineers greater flexibility when designing materials that may make their way into our everyday lives.Nanomaterials are already used in everything from golf clubs to racing cars,and arc also found in sun creams and cosmetics.Nanoparticles are also expected to have an impact inside our bodies,with potential as drug delivery vehicles and as contrast agents for pharmaceuticals.