FROM THE HOUSE OF MAGIC POT, THE WEEK. MANORAMA YEARBOOK.

VANITHA & THE MAlAYAlA MANORAMA DAilY

A Promise for the Future

Page 39

Nanomedicine
Nanobiotechnology

Page 48

"Why can't we write all

the 24 volumes of the
Encyclopedia Britannica
on the head of a pin?" This
question, raised by the
great scientist Richard
Feynman, became the
cradle for a revolutionary
idea - the technology of
the future - nanotech
nology. It is the study and
control of matter at the
nanoscale,
rearranging
atoms and molecules.
Nanotechnology
has
made marvelous contribu
tions in many diverse
from
ranging
fields,
to
science
computer
medical science.
This issue of Tell Me
Why takes you to the
wonder world of nanote
chnology.

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What is Nano?

he Greek word for dwarf

is 'nano'. In nanotechnology, a
'nanometre' is a billionth of a metre,
and each nanometre is only three to
five atoms wide. Things on this scale
cannot be seen even with ordinary
microscopes. Objects this small
require a special tool called a

probe

micro-

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Tell Me Why

What is
nanotechnology?

anotechnology is a wonderful
new technology in which scientists
rearrange atoms and molecules of matter to
nano specifications. Or, to put it differently, the
use and control of tiny matter is called nanotech
nology.
The tiny matter is referred to as nanoparticles. These
particles are measured in nanometres. Matter at the
nanoscale has different properties from the same
matter in bulk form.
In modern times, nanotechnology has become
increasingly important. It has many uses from
developing sports equipment to medical
applications, and is a faster, cheaper,
and better technology for use in
many applrcatins.

Dude , I'm
read ing an art icle
on nanotechnology.

What are the milestones

nanotechnology ?

in

Carbon Nanotube

he first important milestone in

nanotechnology occurred in1985
with the invention of 'bucky-ball' or
Carbon 60 molecule, by a group of
scientists.
In 1988, some scientists proved
that it is possible to move atoms
and molecules in a planned
manner. The next important step
was the invention of the carbon
nanotube in 1991.
Since then, nanotechnology has
made it possible to manufacture
lighter, stronger, and program
mable materials that require less
energy to produce, than conven
tional materials.
Ii'-

It's not
empty, but full of
nanoparticles.

Tell MeWhy

Founder

Richard F eynman
Why is Richard Feynman associated
with nanotechnology?

ichard Feynman was a Nobel

Prize winner (1965) and a brilliant
physicist. In 1959, he introduced the
concept of nanotechnology when
he gave a talk titleq 'There is Plenty
of Room at the Bottom' in which he
spoke of a day when things could be
miniaturized so that huge amounts
of information could be made to fit
into tiny spaces, and machinery
could be made smaller and more
compact.
He believed that all the 24 volumes
of the Encyclopedia Britannica could
be contained on a pinhead with the
use of nanotechnology. His ideas
were the inspiration for future scien
tists to pursue this technology to its
present form.
Nanotechnology

K. Eric Drexler's
'Engines of Creation,'
is justly renowned as
the book that launched
a continuing debate in
scientific and
academic circles about
the advent of
nanotechnology, and
its promises and
threats. Drexler is
considered to be the
founder of
nanotechnology.

[NGINfSOf
CRfATION
.

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What is a buckyball?

Buckyball

A Buckyba/
is better than
football.

buckyball is a molecule
called Buckminsterfullerene. It is
made up of 60 carbon atoms
formed in the shape of a hollow
ball.
The story of buckyballs begins
in 1985 in the laboratory of British
astronomer cum chemist Harold
Kroto. Looking at 'red giant' stars
billions of miles away, Kroto was
puzzled by the long chains of
carbon atoms that his instruments
told him these stars emitted.
Later, he joined American
scientist Richard Smalley and
Robert Curl, who were studying
similar chains or clusters of atoms
in the laboratory. Together, they
devised instruments to study
these clusters. They put carbon in
a helium-filled chamber, and
vaporized it with a laser. The
resulting carbon molecules held
exactly 60 carbon atoms, arranged
into a roughly spherical shape and
was called buckyball, because of
its shape that resembles a foot
ball.
Kroto, Curl, and Smalley were
awarded the Nobel Prize for
Chemistry in 1996, for this great
discovery.
Tell MeWhy

Why was the invention of

the
carbon
nanotube
important ?

Nanotube- A nother View

The Word Nanotechnology

Prof. Norio Taniguchi of Japan

coined the word 'nanotech
nolgy' in 1974. A brilliant
scientist, he was using
mchines which had toler
ances in terms of a micrometre
at that time.

Nanotechnology

carbon nanotube is a
giant molecule of carbon
atoms which has a cylin
drical framework with a
of
radius
a
about
nanometre. This is where
its name comes from.
Nanotubes are catego
rized as single-walled
nanotubes, and mUlti
walled nanotubes. A single
walled carbon nanotube is
times
one
hundred
stronger than steel. With
their
extraordinary
strength, and fascinating
knack
for
conducting
electricity
and
heat,
nanotubes are finding
applications in everything
from cancer treatments to
hydrogen cars.
These structures of
carbon may be tiny-a
nanotube's diameter is
about 10,000 times smaller
than a human hair-but their
impact on science and
technology
has
been
enormous.
9

Why have microscopes played an important role in

the development of nanotechnology?

anoscientists need high-powered microscopes

to see the surface features of nano particles.
In fact, microscopes have played an important role
in opening the door to modern nanotechnology.
Beginning as early as the 1930s, scientists were able
to see the nanoparticles using instruments like the
electron microscope.
The electron microscope was first developed by
German engineers Ernest Ruska and Max Knoll in
1932. Electron microscopes yield much greater
resolution than the older light microscopes. The most
recent and notable developments in microscopy are
the scanning tunnelling microscope and the atomic
force microscope.
To see
your name, increase
the mag nification to
another m i l l ion
times.

10

Tell MeWhy

Gerd Binnig

Heinrich Rohrer
Why has the scanning tunnelling
microscope helped the devel
opment of nanotechnology?

Sumio lijima

'Carbon nanotube' was

discovered in 1991 by
Sumio lijima. His
carbon nanotube was a
one-atom thick sheet of
graphite, rolled into a
tube with a diameter of
one nanometre. He won
the inaugural 2008
Kavli Prize in
Nanoscience for his
discovery.

Nanotechnology

n the late 20th century,

German-born
physicist
Gerd
Binnig and Swiss physicist
Heinrich Rohrer invented the
scanning tunnelling microscope,
or STM.
Its resolution is so great that it
can resolve a single atom. The
underlying principle of the STM is
the
tunnelling of electrons,
between the sharp tip of a probe,
and the surface of the sample
under study.
The invention of STM has given
us stunning insights into the world
of nanotechnology.

The First AFM

What is AFM?

AFM

Mr. Nano

Eric Drexler is often

described as "the founding
father of nanotechnology".
He was the first to publish a
technical paper, and book
on molecular nanotech
nology. For this reason, he
is also called Mr. Nano.

12

stands for atomic

force microscope. Gerd Binnig,
Calvin Quate and Christoph
Gerber invented the first atomic
force microscope in 1986. It is
a type of high resolution
scanning probe microscope
that has a resolution that you
can measure in fractions of a
nanometer.
The
'feels' the atoms
rather than 'sees' them. The
is one of the foremost
tools for imaging, measuring,
and manipulating matter at the
nanoscale.
It is very versatile, and this
versatility has led to an
explosion in the number of
scientists using the instrument.

AFM

AFM

Tell MeWhy

Why is a nanomanipulator very useful?

he nanomanipulator system is used

for working with objects on an extremely
small scale.
The nanomanipulator uses advanced
computer graphics to display the
scanned surface to the user. A robot arm
enables the user to feel, and modify the
surface.
In 1989, Don Eigler
In short, this instrument provides a
was
the first to
scientist with the ability to examine, and
manipulate
atoms
study objects as small as single
using
a
scanning
molecules.
tunnelling
The system was designed by the
microscope.
Centre for Computer Integrated Systems
for Microscopy and Manipulation at the
University of North Carolina, US.
Sir, this is
not the movie
'Gravity', this is
pulation.

Nanotedmology

13

How are nanoscale objects made?

wo approaches can be taken

when making something at the
nanoscale. They are known as the top
down approach, and the bottom up
approach.
The top-down approach is like
making a stone statue where you take
a big piece of material, and carve or
cut it until you have made the shape
you want. It has been used to great
effect to produce the miniaturization
of electronic components, such as
computer chips.
The second approach to producing
nanotechnology is known as the
bottom-up approach. It is the same
approach one would take to building a
house, i.e, taking lots of building
blocks and puts them together to
produce the final bigger structure.
Cosmetics and fuel additives are all
examples of structures made using
bottom-up techniques.
14

Global Martet

As more and more

applications are
found for
nanowires, it is
estimated that by
2015, the global
market for these
tiny wonders could
reach 1.8 billion US
Dollars.
Tell MeWhy

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Self- assembly
not worked
here.

What is self assembly?

M EMS

MEMS stands for

microelectrome
chanical systems.
These are machines
with moving parts
that contain both
electrical and
mechanical parts.
They are made with
nanotechnology,
and are thinner than
a human hair.

16

elf-aSSemblY is a process in
which pre-existing components that
are disorganized, interact with each
other to form an organized
structure.
This process can be classified
either as static self assembly, or as
dynamic self assembly. Static self
assembly is when the ordered state
does not require the release of
energy. Dynamic self-assembly is
when the ordered state requires
release of energy.
Self-assembly occurs in nature,
as in the case of cells. Examples of
self-assembling system include
weather patterns, and solar
systems.
Tell Me Why

The Magnified Image of Self

assembled Super Mole cular Chains
What is positional assembly?

ositional assembly is a
technique
that
has
been
suggested as a means to build
objects, devices, and systems on
a
molecular
scale
using
automated processes.
Here, the components carry out
the construction process by
following programmed paths. It is
a high precision form of self
assembly.
Positional assembly deals with
the mechanics of moving
molecular pieces into their proper
relational places and keeping
them there. Molecular robots are
devices that do the positional
assembly.
Nanotechnology

Moore's Law is a
computing term which
originated around 1970.
This law states that
processor speeds, or
overall processing
power for computers will
double every two years.
The law also stated that
silicon transistors would
become smaller and
smaller. This have been
made possible by
nanoelectronics.

Gordon Moore

17

Which are the major nanomaterials?

anomaterials are chemical substances

or materials that are manufactured and used
at a very small scale - down to 10,000 times
smaller than the diameter of a human hair.
Nanomaterials have novel characteristics,
such as increased strength, chemical
reactivity or conductivity, compared to the
same material without nanoscale features.
Hundreds of products containing nanomate
rials are already in use. Some examples are
batteries, coatings, anti-bacterial clothing
etc.
Carbon nanotubes are among the most
exciting of nanomaterials. These rod-shaped
carbon molecules are roughly one nanometre
across. Although they're hollow, their densely
packed structure makes them incredibly
strong, and they can be grown into fibres of
virtually any length. There are many other
nanomaterials like nanoparticles, nanowires,
nanocapsules, DNA chips, nanocrystals,
and buckyballs.

Nano Sphere of
Carbon A toms

Th is
nanotube

18

Tell Me Why

Medieval Wonder

Nanotechnology is a
modern phenomenon, but
even in medieval times,
nanoscale materials have
been used like the gold and
silver particles found in the
stained glass windows of
churches.
When did the term 'nanoparticles' came
to be in use?

DNA Chip
Nanotechnology

he use and control of tiny matter is

called nanotechnology. The tiny matter
is referred to as nanoparticles. These
particles are measured in nanometres
and they have a size in between 1 and
100 nanometres.
Nanoparticles were previously known
as ultrafine particles. The new term
'nanoparticles' started being used only
after the 1990s.
Some of these nanoparticles occur
naturally as in the case of volcanic ash.
Nanoparticles are also present in
aerosols, suspensions, and emulsions.
19

Someone is
producing
nanoparticfes.

What is the history of nanoparticles?

ince early times, humans have been

producing carbon-based nanoparticles.
The smoke and soot from the campfires of our
ancestors contained nanoparticles that are today
known as fullerenes and carbon nanotubes.
Nanoparticles were used by artisans as far
back as the ninth century in Mesopotamia for
generating a glittering effect on the surface of
pots.
Later, in the 1 1th to 13th centuries AD, the
exceptional strength, remarkable sharpness,
and beautiful patterns on the surface of the
Damascus steel sword blades used by Saladin's
troops may have been due to the presence of
carbon nanotubes in the steel used.
In 1985, Richard Smalley found that stable
clusters of 60 carbon atoms were produced when
he shot a laser at a sheet of graphite, and nanote
chnology in its present form was born.
Tell Me Why

Three Diamensional Illustration

of Nanotubefromlnside.

Why are nanoparticles of great scien

tific interest?
Prey!

In 2002, Michael
Crichton wrote a
book, 'Prey,' which
features an artificial
swarm of
nanorobots. These
nanorobots develop
intelligence and
threaten their
human inventors.
The book created
quite a sensation.

Nanotechnology

anoparticles
are
important
because they are a bridge between
bulk materials and atomic structures.
While bulk materials have constant
physical properties regardless of their
size, in the case of nanoparticles, the
size often dictates the physical and
chemical properties. Thus, the
properties of materials change as their
size approaches the nanoscale.
Nanoparticles are important scien
tific tools that have been, and are
being explored in various biotechno
logical, pharmacological, and pure
technological uses.
21

What are nanocrystals?

anocrystals are particles so

small that their width measures
about 1/80,000 of the diameter of a
single strand of hair. They are so
light and so strong that NASA once
said they theoretically could be used
to build an elevator to the Moon.
Nanocrystals
are
roughly
spherical, and the size and shapes
of these crystalline particles can be
controlled. The number of electrons
they have can range from one to
several thousands. Their size distin
guishes them from larger crystals,
and billions of nanocrystals can be
accommodated on a pinhead.
Nanocrystals may be used to make
super-strong and long-lasting metal
parts. The crystals also may be
added to plastics and other metals to
make new types of composite struc
tures for everything from cars to
electronic devices.
22

Nanocrystals Under UV
Excitation.

Here is your
nanocrystal.

Tell Me Why

What are nanowires?

N anowires are simply, very tiny

wires. They are composed of metals
such as silver, gold, or iron, or
semiconductors such as silicon, zinc
oxide, and germanium.
Nanoparticles are used to create
these little nanowires, which can
have a diameter as small as a
nanometre.
Nanowires have an amazing
length-to-width ratio. Engineers and
scientists tend to work with
nanowires that are between 30 and
60 nanometres wide.
Nanowires can help to make
smaller and faster computers in the
near future. They can also be used
to run self powered nanorobots that
can fight diseases like cancer. Many
different types of nanowires exist,
including metallic, semiconducting,
and insulating nanowires.

Nanotechnology

IBM Magic

The world's smallest

computer logic circuit
uses carbon
nanotubes. It was built
by IBM In 2001.

Magnified Image of
Nanowires

23

What are the applications of

nanotechnology?

Th is
nono straw makes
us proud.

24

anotechnology plays an
important role in various
like
medicine,
fields
agriculture, electronics, and
engineering.
In medicine, researchers
are developing customized
nanoparticles in the size of
molecules that can deliver
drugs directly to diseased
cells in your body.
holds
Nanotechnology
some answers for how we
might increase the efficiency
of electronic devices, while
we reduce their weight and
. power consumption.
This technology is having
an impact on several aspects
Tell Me Why

of food science, from how food is grown, to how it is

packaged. Companies are developing nanomaterials
that will make a difference, not only to the taste of
food, but also in food safety.
Nanotechnology is being used to reduce the cost of
catalysts used in fuel cells and also in solar cells.
Companies are currently developing batteries using
nanomaterials. Nanotechnology may hold the key to
making space-flight more practical, and can also
improve air quality by improving the performance of
catalysts used to transform vapours escaping from
cars or industrial plants into harmless gases.
In addition, this technology can help in ensuring
cleaner water as well as better sports equipment and
improved fabrics.

Innovative
Application

Nanotechnology

25

What is meant by nanoelectronics?

anoelectronics is an exciting field that is

forecast to influence nearly every facet of our life.
The term refers to the use of nanotechnology in
electric components.
The first half of the word 'nano,' refers to the size
of something, especially something very small.
'Electronics' may be defined
I'm
as the technological and
watching
scientific
branch dealing
Nano TV.
with electrical, or charged,
components. Therefore, the
term
'nanoelectronics'

refers to very small, electri

cally charged components.
It covers both devices and
materials that have one
thing in common- they are
unimaginably small. The
roots of nanoelectronics
began to develop in the early
1980s, and today, it is truly a
fascinating field that covers
designing medical devices
to building better batteries.

26

Tell MeWhy

"Nanotechnology will be the

future with nanoscience
developing nanomaterials and
devices."
- Dr AP.J. Abdul Kalam

Nanotechnology

Why
is
molecular
electronics an important
branch
of
nanotech
nology?

Olecular electronics
is a branch of nanotech
nology that uses single
molecules, or nanoscale
collections
of
single
molecules, as electronic
components.
Conventional electronics
have traditionally been
made from bulk materials.
In molecular electronics,
the bulk material is
single
by
replaced
molecules.
This
way,
billions of copies are made
simultaneously, and the
composition of molecules
are controlled down to the
last atom. The molecules
utilized have properties
that resemble traditional
components
electronic
such
as
wires
and
transistors.
Molecular electronics is
still in its infancy, but it
brings hope for truly atomic
scale electronic systems in
the future.
27

Which are
devices?

some

nanoelectronic

Beauty and
Quality

Nanotechnology
also plays a role in
the cosmetics
industry. L'Oreal is
a company that
uses nanotech
nology to
transport active
ingredients such
as pure Vitamin E
through the skin.

anoelectronics is based on the

application of nanotechnology in the
field of electronic components.
Conventional computers with big
processors will be replaced with
nanocomputers with nanoprocessors
that will have higher performance and
speed
than
the
conventional
computers.
The devices using nanoelectronics
technology also include solar cells
that are highly efficient, and cheaper
than the conventional ones.
If such efficient solar energy can be
created, it would be a revolution for
global energy needs. Televisions,
LEOs, and computers will also be
devices using nanoelectronics.

Beagle Board
Single board Computer
(75mm)
28

Tell Me Why

LED

How have nanowires changed the

future of LED displays?

Nano LED
is better ....

Nanotechnology

anowires are structures with

diameters in the range of tens of
nanometres and lengths to the order
of hundreds of nanometres to
micrometres.
By comparison, the diameter of a
human hair is about 500 times larger
than a 100 nanometre nanowire. Each
: nanowi re acts basically as an ind ividual
light-emitting diode or LED. Any colour
of the visible spectrum, ranging from
deep blue to red, can be realized using
nanowire LEOs.
Therefore, nanowires make it
possible to manufacture larger and
more flexible LED displays, and
nanotechnology might change the
physical form of laptops, cell phones,
and TV displays in the future.
29

Why was the invention of the millipede chip so

important?

Millipede Chip

n nanotechnology, the term millipede refers

to a new approach to storing data at high speed
and ultrahigh density.
The interesting part is that millipede stores
digital information in a completely different way
from magnetic hard disks, optical disks, and
transistor-based memory chips. It promises a
data density of more than 1 terabit per square
inch, and has some similarity with the punch
card.
Millipede uses thousands of tiny sharp points
hence the name- to punch holes into a thin
plastic film. Each of the 10-nanometre holes
represents a single bit.
Millipede is rewritable, and it may eventually
enable storage of over 1.5 GB of data in a space
no larger than a single hole in the punch card.
30

Tell Me Why

How can nanotechnology help

to meet the growing demand
for fuel?

How Small!

Your fingernails grow at

the rate of one nanometre
per second. This is about
1/25,000 diameter of a
human hair.

anotechnology will bring

significant benefits to the
energy sector, especially to
energy storage and solar
energy.
Improved materials efficiency
and reduced manufacturing
costs are just two of the real
economic benefits that nanote
chnology already brings to
these fields, and these are
only the beginning.
Battery storage capacity
could be extended, solar cells

Highly Magnified Strand

of Human Hair

Nanotehnology

31

could
be
produced
cheaper, and the lifetime
of solar cells or batteries
for electric cars could be
increased, all thanks to
continued development
of nanotechnology.
We must remember
that there's only one
source of renewable
energy that can provide
all of the world's needs,
and that is the Sun. In
fact, enough sunlight falls
on the Earth's surface in
just a couple of hours
each day to meet the
whole world's energy
needs for one year. The
question is .. . how can we
effectively and economi
cally harness this solar
energy, without mass
very
producing
expensive conventional
solar cells?
Nanotechnology could
provide the answer in the
form of a new kind of
solar cell, one which
would
be
relatively
inexpensive
to
manufacture, and highly
flexible in design.
32

What is the importance of quantum

dot laser?

laser is a machine that gives a

strong single-colour source of light. It
uses special gases or crystals to
make light with a single colour. Then,
mirrors are used to amplify that
colour of light, and to make all the
light travel in one direction.

Device that Produces Visible Light

From Quantum Layers to Crystals
Tell Me Why

As a result, the light stays as a

narrow beam, and when pointed at
something, this narrow beam makes
a single point of light. All of the
energy of the light stays in that one
narrow beam, instead of spreading
out like a flashlight.
Quantum dots are tiny nanoc
rystals that glow when stimulated
by an external source, such as
ultraviolet light. How many atoms
are included in the quantum dot
determines their size, and the size
of the quantum dot determines the
colour of light emitted.
Lasers made of quantum dots are
known as quantum dot lasers. The
diameter of the dot determines the
wavelength of the light emitted. The
advantage of quantum dot lasers is
that they are cheaper than conven
tional lasers, and the beam of light
is of better quality.
Nanotechnology

Quantum Dots Emissions

From Violet to Red

Pioneers

Yuri Manin and

Richard Feynman are
the pioneers in the
field of quantum
computing. Their
contributions were
made in 1980 and 1982
respectively.

33

Look, this is
my quantum
computer!

What is a quantum computer?

uantum computers are computers

that harness the power of atoms and
molecules to perform memory and
processing tasks.
Quantum computers are different
from digital computers that are based
on transistors. Whereas digital
computers require data to be encoded

into binary digits or bits,

quantum computation
uses qubits or quantum
bits.
Quantum computers
will be able to perform
calculations faster, and
on a far greater order of
magnitude, than tradi
tional computers.
Quantum computers
have been built on a
small scale, and work
continues to upgrade
them to more practical
models. A handful of
quantum
computers
have been built so far,
and research in this
field is still going on.
A Chip used in
Quantum Computers

34

Tell Me Why

A High Tem perature Superconductor Levitating

above a Magnet
How is nanotechnology helpful in achieving super
conductivity?

Certain materials- mainly, metals or ceramics

show a complete absence of electrical resistance at
low temperatures, and this phenomenon is known as
superconductivity.
If you send a current through a superconducting
wire, it loses no energy to resistance. However, super
conductors require very cold temperatures. This is
where nanotechnology can help.
The unusual size and shape of the carbon nanotubes
have been found useful in making them supercon
ductive at relatively high temperature. It has been
shown that these carbon nanotubes can conduct
electricity without any resistance, at temperatures
stretching up past the boiling point of water.
The tubes would be the first superconductors to
work at room temperature, and this is a giant stride
forward in the field of superconductivity.
Nanotechnology

35

Be smart
with this
smart dust.

What is 'smart dust' in nanotech

nology?

Blackout

A science fiction
show on TV
shows how
nanotechnology
can be misused
to cause a
worldwide
blackout.
It is named
'Revolution' and
is aired on the
NBC TV channel
in the USA.

36

mart dust is a concept that origi

nated in the 1990s as a result of a
research project of the US Defence.
Smart dust is made of 'motes' that are
tiny sensors which can provide a variety
of functions. These sensors are actually
microelectromechanical
MEMS
or
systems.
Though these motes are so tiny, they
still contain a battery, a wireless
transistor, and some amount of RAM; in
short, a microscopic operating system
that allows the whole thing to run.
The practical applications of smart
dust can be applied to any industry- for
monitoring crops, or the output of
machines, or to track animal migration
patterns, wind and humidity, and even to
monitor your bodily functions!
Tell MeWhy

What is the importance of nanoro

botics?

Nanorobot

Nanotechnology

nanorobot is a microscopic robot

built with nanotechnology. These robots
will be able to sense and adapt to external
factors such as heat and light. They can
be used for everything from repairing
space satellites, to killing blood-borne
pathogens and cancers.
Nanorobotics is the technology of
creating machines or robots at, or close
to, the scale of a nanometer.
For example, in the future, if you have a
fever, your doctor will be able to place a
tiny robot into your bloodstream. The
robot detects the cause of your fever,
travels to the appropriate system, and
provides a dose of medication directly to
the infected area.

37

How are nanorobots useful in

medicine?

N anorobots are so small that

they actually interact on the same
level as bacteria and viruses do.
It is anticipated that they could be
equipped with all sorts of tools and
cameras in order to furnish more
extensive information about the
human body. Not only that, they
can perform millions of useful
tasks.
Among these is the ability to float
neutrally through your bloodstream,
identifying problem areas of your
body, and fixing them.
Nanarobots could be used to
clear built-up cholesterol from your
arteries, thereby saving you from a
heart attack. When it comes to
major diseases like cancer,
nanorobots are perfect for eradi
cating malignant cells.
Help me!
Nano turns
viral!

38

Nanorobot - Magnified
Illustration

___
---(O

Tell Me Why

What are the areas of applications of

nanotechnology in nanomedicine?

N anomedicine is the medical appli

cation of nanotechnology and related
research.
Applied to medicine, nanorobots would
be programmed for specific biological
tasks, and injected into the blood in a
solution to work on cancer celis, on viruses,
and even for reversing the aging process.
Established and near-future nanomed
icine applications include activity monitors,
chemotherapy, pacemakers, biochips,
insulin pumps, needleless injectors,
hearing aids, medical flow sensors, and
blood pressure, glucose monitoring and
drug delivery systems.

Nanotechnology

39

Hands up ...
Are you a
cancer cell?

Why is nanotechnology a boon in

cancer treatment?

he use of nanotechnology in cancer

treatment offers some exciting possibil
ities. Usually, we depend on surgery,
chemotherapy, or radiation treatment to
destroy cancer. Unfortunately, these
treatments can carry serious side
effects. With nanotechnology, targeted
drug therapies are possible. If scientists
can
load
their
cancer-detecting
nanoparticles with anticancer drugs,
they could attack the cancer cells exactly
where they are located.
Nanotechnology, therefore, opens
the doors to the possibility of destroying
cancer tumors with minimal damage to
healthy tissue and organs.
40

Gold at
Nanoscale

Gold at the
nanoscale has
different
properties from
the gold that we
know. Nano gold
particles are not
the yellow colour
with which we are
familiar with, but
can appear red or
purple in colour.

Tell MeWhy

How can nanotechnology be useful

to surgeons?

he role of nanotechnology in
surgery is evident in the miniaturi
zation of surgical tools. Experimental
microrobots are already available,
and being tested in live tissues.
In the US, Rice University has
made a significant invention named
'flesh welding'. Flesh welding is a
new technology which can replace
the old clumsy and infection prone
stitching method after the surgery.
An experiment was conducted on
two chicken pieces which were
placed together, touching each other.
A liquid containing gold-coated
nanoshelis was dribbled along the
seam. An infrared laser was traced
along the seam, causing the two
sides to weldtogether. This technique
is known as 'flesh welding'.
Nanotechnology

Nano Coatings

Nanotechnology can
provide us with
innovative coatings
that have scratch
resistance, fire
proofing, light trans
mission, heat
resistance, and dirt
shedding properties.
These coatings will
be very useful on
vehicle surfaces.

41

Why is nanotechnology important in

tissue engineering?

Earl ier,
I was at a tissue
engineer's lab as
an assistant.

42

he idea of tissue engineering is

to induce tissue regeneration of
damaged tissues or organs by making
use of the self-healing potential of the
living body, or by providing biological
substitutes.
Nanomaterials can mimic surface
properties of natural tissues. In fact,
the unique properties of nanomate
rials have helped to improve various
tissue growth.
Research has also shown that bones
could be regrown on carbon nanotube
scaffolds. There is every possibility,
therefore, that in time, tissue
engineering using nanotechnology
will replace the organ transplants and
artificial implants of today. In India the
Sri Chitra Institute of Science and
Technology,
Trivandrum
does
considerable research on this topic.

Tell MeWhy

How is nanotechnology used in arthro

scopes?

Nanosponges

Scientists are
trying to develop
'nanosponges'
that can absorb
toxins, and
remove them
from the blood
stream.
Nanotechnology

rthroscopes
are
pencil-sized
devices that are used in surgeries. They
have lights and cameras that enable
surgeons to do surgeries with smaller
incisions.
Nanotechnology is helping to advance
the use of arthroscopes, by making them
smaller and smaller.
In fact, arthroscopes will hopefully,
become smaller than a strand of hair in
the future, with the help of this technology.
Such tiny arthroscopes would mean
even smaller incisions, which in turn,
would promote faster healing.
. 43

Why are neuroelectronic

devices a boon to humanity?

nano

euroelectronics is a new field

that broadly relates to interfacing the
neurons of the nervous system with
electronic devices.
Nanodevices can play an important
role in this field by permitting
computers to be linked to the nervous
system. This can be done by building
a molecular structure that will permit
control and detection of nerve
impulses by an external computer.
The computers will be able to
interpret, register, and respond to
signals the body gives off when it
feels sensations. Many diseases
today involve the decay of the
nervous system, and so, the demand
for such devices would be great.

44

Novel Nano

Robert Ludlum
wrote a novel In
2005 called 'The
Lazarus Vendetta,'
Its theme Is the
ability of nanotech
nology to cure
cancer.

The device is
nono , but, the
shock is not
nono!

What are the limitations of neuroe

lectronic nanodevices?

N euroelectronic

nanodevices
have many advantages, but there
are many limitations, too.
To begin with, electrical fields and
electromagnetic pulses can interfere
with their working. Very thick
insulation is needed to prevent
electrons from leaking, and very thick
wires are needed to prevent
overheating. The wiring for these
devices is complicated, and huge
technical and research inputs are
needed to make them. As a result,
they are extremely expensive.
Nanotechnology

WhHeLlght

Clusters of silver
nanopartlcles
naturally emit white
light They can be
shaped Into a sort of
nanomlrror, and
placed under a
specimen In a micro
scope. They are very
useful In studying
both the outer, and
the Inner structure
of a specimen.
45

What is nanonephrology?

Nanorobots in
Blood stream

anonePhrOIOgy is a branch of nanomed

icine and nanotechnology. It uses nanomate
rials and nanodevices for the diagnosis,
therapy, and management of diseases of the
kidney.
This branch of nanomedicine deals with the
study of kidney protein structures at the atomic
level, as well as nano-imaging approaches to
study cellular processes in kidney cells. It also
deals with nanomedical treatments that utilize
nanoparticles to treat various kidney
diseases.
In the future, it may include nanorobots to
treat kidney diseases, and the manufacture of
nanoscale artificial kidneys, but for the present,
these goals still remain a dream.
46

Tell MeWhy

This machine
w i l l repair your
damaged cel ls... ___----<"------

What
are
machines?

Our

cell

repair

body's cells and

organisms already perform
extremely complex feats of
repairing damaged cells and
tissues naturally.
They do this by using a variety
of molecular machines
machines
constructed
to
molecular specifications- that
nature has already placed in
the body.
Nanotechnology will allow us
to build any of these molecular
machines, and to assemble
Nanotechnology

them in ways not seen in

nature.
Among these objectives will
be sophisticated cell repair.
These nanomachines will be
able to enter cells, sense differ
ences from healthy ones, and
make modifications to the
structure.
They
will
be
controlled by nanocomputers
that will direct the machines to
examine, take apart, and
rebuild damaged molecular
structures.
Working cell by cell, and
tissue by tissue, whole organs
can be repaired in this way!
47

What is nanobiotechnology?

anobiotechnOIOgy is the mergerof biological

research with various fields of nanotechnology
such as nanodevices, nanoparticles, or unique
nanoscale phenomena. The biological world that
most of us experience, is typically on the 'macro'
scale.
Although molecular biologists have been
working with nano-sized biomolecules for the
last few decades, nanobiotechnology was not
defined as a discipline until researchers started
making a focused effort to use our knowledge of
nanotechnology to tackle biological problems.
Goodbye...
see you a s a nano
particle ...

What are the major objectives of nanobio

technology?

The

most important objective of

nanobiotechnology is the application of
nanotools to medical and biological
problems.
Another primary objective is to develop
new tools for this field. New nanotools are
often made by refining the nanotools that
are already being used. The imaging of
biomolecules,
native
biological
membranes, and tissues, is also a major
topic for the nanobiology researchers.
Many research centres are also involved
in the development of nano-biochips,
nano-biosensors, and nano-biomaterials.
In fact, biologically-inspired nanotech
nology uses biological systems as the
inspiration for technologies not yet
created.

Spider Silk

Scientists

.iii....... today are using

nanotech
nology to try and make synthetic spider
silk , because spider silk Is super strong
and stretchy. Though It looks fragile,
spider silk is tougher than bone and
steel!
Nanotechnology

49

Which are the branches of science that

come together in nanobiotechnology?

anobiotechnOIOgy sees several

branches of science coming together.
Most of the fundamentals of nanobio
technology, as well as its devices, come
from nanotechnology.
chemistry,
photonics,
However,
biology, biophysics, nano-medicine, and
engineering also play an important role in
this exciting new branch of nanotech
nology. Genetics and computer science
also have a role to play in nanobiotech
nology.
I l i ke nano
technology better
than genetics.

,. ,

50

Tell MeWhy

How has nanobiotechnology proved

useful in medicine?

N anobiotechnOIOgy

'

has
great
potential for advancing medical science,
thereby improving health care practices
around the world. It has proved of
immense value in many cases, from
treating symptoms to generating cures,
and regenerating tissue.
Nanobiotechnology techniques have
helped three American patients who
have received whole cultured bladders
as a result of advances in this field.
Research has also shown that it may be
possible one day to grow a uterus outside
the body !
The future may also see new limbs
being grown so that people who lose an
arm or leg need not have to make do with
artificial limbs. The possibilities are mind
boggling, and nanobiotechnology holds
the key to translating them into reality.

Dendrimer

A dendrimer - from Greek dendra

for tree- is an artificially manufac
tured or synthesized molecule, that is built up from branched
units called monomers. Dendrimers are of interest to researchers
in medical technology, where they might help carry and deliver
drugs in the body.

Nanotechnology

51

r am
searching for
my nanotools.

What are the major tools in

nanobiotechnology?

, , All the written

words ofhistory could
fit on a cube ofmaterial
measuring just
one-hundredth ofan
inch wide, ifthe words
were written with
atoms. "
- Richard Feynman

52

anobiotechnolOgy relies
on a variety of research
methods, including experi
mental tools. It combines the
tools, ideas, and materials of
nanoscience and biology, and
attempts to build molecular
machines utilizing concepts
seen in nature.
Experimental
tools
like
imaging and X-ray diffraction
based tools and self-assembly
tools all play a role in this field,
and will help in discovering new
ways of detecting disease,
supporting
regenerative
medicine, and improving the
efficiency of drug delivery.
Tell Me Why

Why is green nanotechnology

important?

G reen nanotechnology is the

study of how nanotechnology
can benefit the environment,
such as by using less energy
during
the
manufacturing
process, the ability to recycle
products after use, and using
eco-friendly materials.
It builds on the principles of
green chemistry and green
engineering, and focuses them
through a new lens on the unique
effects that occur in nanoscale
materials.
Green nanotechnology can
help us provide clean water to
billions of people via novel
filtration techniques, and has the
ability to decontaminate dirty
water. It can increase the use of
renewable energy ; and help in
waste management too. In fact,
renewable energy applications
probably are the areas where
nanotechnology will make its first
Nanotechnology

53

DNA Nanotechnology

Enjoying
the taste of green
nanotechnology.

DNA nanotechnology deals

with the design and
manufacture of artificial
nucleic acid structures for
technological uses. The
concept was first put
forward by Nadrlan Seeman
in the early 1980s, and the
field began to attract
widespread Interest In the
early 2000s.

large-scale commercial break

throughs.
Green nanotechnology can
also influence the design of
nanomaterials and products by
eliminating
minimizing
or
pollution from the production of
these materials. Green nanote
chnology will, hopefully, help us
replace existing products with
new nano-products that are
more environmentally friendly
throughout their life cycle.
54

What are the goals of green

nanotechnology?

reen nanotechnology is
about doing things right in the
first place about making
green nano-products, and
using
nano-products
in
support of sustainability.
Sustainability is a term used
to denote development that
meets the needs of the
present, without comproTell Me Why

mising the ability of future genera

tions to meet their own needs.
The first goal of green nanotech
nology is to produce nanomaterials
and products without harming the
environment or human health.
The second goal is to produce
provide
that
nano-products
to
solutions
environmental
problems. Green nanotechnology
achieves these goals by using the
existing
principles
of
green
chemistry and green engineering to
make nanomaterials and nano
products that are eco-friendly.

Silver Dollar

The United States

silver dollar has a
surface area of about
27.70 square centi
metres. If it were to be
divided into tiny
particles one
nanometre in
diameter, the total
surface area of those
particles would be 4
million times greater
than its present
surface area.

Why will nanotechnology usher

in a new industrial revolution?

anotechnology will make it

possible to manufacture more and
better consumer goods, like
clothes that are not just wrinkle
free and stain repellant, but also
smart because they will have tiny
electronic devices embedded in
them.
Similarly, car bumpers will
become lighter, sunscreen will be
more radiation resistant, synthetic
bones will become stronger,
packaging will have a longer
shelf-life, balls for various sports
will be made more durable. The
list is long and exciting.
Ali this wili lead to an ever greater
demand for consumer goods . . .
which in turn, will usher in another
industrial revolution.
56

Tell MeWhy

Why do nano products have a great future in

the food industry?

anoproducts can give a boost to the

food industry at several levels.
Nano-engineered materials can minimize
carbon dioxide leakage out of carbonated
beverages, or reduce oxygen inflow, moisture
outflow, or the growth of bacteria in order to
keep food fresher and safer, longer.
Nanosensors built into plastic packaging
can warn against spoiled food too.
Carving up a grain of salt into these smaller
particles increases its surface area a
million-fold, which means that your food
needs far less salt to give your taste buds the
same savoury kick.
In short, nanoproducts can offer so much
to the food industry, and even the promise of
a technological solution to the problem of the
one billion people who don't get enough to
eat.
I'm nanosalt ...
I can't mingle
with you, ordinary
pepper.

Nanotechnology

57

How can nanotechnology be

helpful to housewives?

Cyborg

The term 'cyborg' stands for

'cybernetic organism'
which is anything that has
both organic and
mechanical parts. Right
now, it refers to people who
have electrical implants in
their bodies.

58

anotechnology can be a
boon to housewives too. The
most common use of nanote
chnology in the household is
cleaning products.
The tiny nanoparticles in
cleaning products allow you to
be able to clean off things like
dirt and food remains, in a
simple but effective way.
Nanoceramic particles have
improved the heat resistance
and smoothness, which make
them very useful in many
household appliances.
Housewives will also find
exciting
new
cosmetic
products Cosmetics giant
L'Oreal, for example, says it
has developed a nanocapsule
that delivers active ingre
dients, deep into the layers of
skin.
L'Oreal and other manufac
turers also use nanoparticles
of titanium dioxide and zinc
oxide to create vivid and
metallic shades of lipstick and
eye shadow. Similar nanopar
ticles are used in several
brands of sunscreen.
Tell MeWhy

Why
nanotechnology
is
important to the textile industry?

Oday, we already have

clothes that are wrinkle free and
stain repellant. Nanotechnology
offers the textile industry many
other advantages as well.
Textiles with a nanotechno
logical finish can be washed less
frequently, and at lower tempera
tures. More glamorous applica
Don't worry!
tions include embedding gold
I'm safe in this nanoparticles into natural fabrics
nano suit.
such as wool.
The gold nanoparticles impart
soft colours from pale soft greens,
to browns and beiges, depending
on the particle size and shape.
These colours are stable, and
may even provide some antibac
terial properties to the fabrics, as
an added bonus!
Already on the market are
socks and leisurewear with
embedded silver nanoparticles
that combat odour through killing
bacteria. Scientists are also
working
on
nanoelectronic
devices that can be embedded
iD textiles to provide special
support systems for individuals
in dangerous professions or
sports.
Nanotechnology
\

59

Solution a/Gold
Nanoparticles

What are the uses of nanotechnology in

the cosmetic industry?

The cosmetic industry has discovered

that nanotechnology can help it in making
better and safer products.
In the cosmetic arena, it is believed that
the smaller particles are more readily
absorbed into the skin.
One such example is the use of nanote
chnology in sunscreens. Sunscreens
regularly contain titanium dioxide and
zinc oxide nanoparticles due to their
ability to absorb ultraviolet radiation.
Nanoparticles, which have antibacterial
activity, are also being used as preserva
tives.
Gold nanoparticles in facepacks are
believed to have anti-inflammatory and
antioxidant properties. It is also believed
that as new products are developed,
nanotechnology may be used to prevent
graying hair, and combat hair loss in some
cases.
60

Grey Goo

The term 'grey

goo' refers to a
disaster scenario
caused by
nanotechnology.
In this scenario,
out-of-control
self-replicating
robots consume
all matter on Earth
while building
more of them. The
term was coined
by nanotech
nology pioneer
Eric Drexler in his
book 'Engines of
Creation' (1986).

Tell MeWhy

What is the role of nanotechnology in

sports?

The world of competitive sports is

highly influenced by even minute
changes in sports equipment, which
could be a matter of winning or losing. . .
and this is where nanotechnology can
be of help.
Within the niche of sports equipment,
nanotechnology offers a number of
advantages and immense potential to
improve sporting equipments making
athletes safer, more comfortable and
more agile than ever.
Baseball bats, tennis and badminton
racquets, hockey sticks, racing
bicycles, golf balls and clubs, skis,
fly-fishing rods and archery arrows are
some of the sporting equipments,
whose performance and durability are
being improved with the help of
nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology

This bat is
specially made
with nano
techno logy .

61

Why is nanotechnology a boon to aerospace

and vehicle manufacturing industries?

he aerospace industry is one of the

most important heavy industries in the world,
and nanotechnology will play an important
role in its future.
The main goal in current aerospace
industry is the invention of lighter
construction materials, and more efficient
engines.
Various nanomaterials have been used in
aircraft construction, and these include
nanoclays, carbon nanotubes, nanofibres,
and graphene.
Nanotechnology promises to benefit many
aspects of the vehicle industry. For several
years, nanotechnology research has been
working towards coatings and paints which
are highly scratch resistant, self-healing,
and dirt repellant. These technologies would
allow automotive paint to last for the lifetime
of the vehicle without aging, and require
cleaning much less often.
62

Tell Me Why

What is the role of nanotech

nology in the construction
industry?

anotechnOlgy can make

construction faster, cheaper
and more efficient.
Two nanoparticles that stand
out in their application to
construction materials are
titanium dioxide, and carbon
nanotubes. The former is being
used for its ability to break
down dirt, and then allow it to
be washed off by rain water on
everything from concrete to
glass, and the latter is being
used to strengthen and monitor
concrete.

Nanotechnology

A number of companies are

using nanotechnology to add
special
characteristics
to
product surfaces, which can be
anything from stain-resistance
and colour durability to self
cleaning, improved hardness,
and scratch-resistance.
From making concrete and
glass that's fire-protective, to
giving strength to wood and
steel at much lower densities,
nanotechnology is helping us
build a safer, cleaner, and
more efficient world.

Mix some
nanoparticles to
strengthen the
concrete.

63

Why is nanotechnology of great importance to

the military?

ll major world powers are now investing

and researching into the use of nanotechnology
in the field of military.
Nanofabrics are currently being researched
for use in military camouflage. A development
called 'active camouflage,' allows the wearer or
object to blend into its surroundings.
64

Tell MeWhy

Nanoparticles can be
injected into the material
on soldiers' uniforms to
not only make the material
more durable, but also to
protect soldiers from
many different dangers
such as high tempera
tures, and impact of
chemicals.
Another important use
for nanotechnology is for
manufacturing sensors.
Portable, efficient sensors
will be highly valuable to
military field operatives.

How is nanotechnology useful in

the battlefield?

anotechnology can improve

medical and casualty care for
soldiers. It can produce lightweight,
strong and multi-functional materials
for use in clothing, both for protection
and to provide enhanced connec
tivity. Improved body armour is a
major focus for military nanotech
nology research. Nanotechnology
will also provide soldiers with armour
that is a hundred times stronger,
and six times lighter than steel.
Nanotechnology also can provide

How did
you get this
nanotech skin?

self- changing camouflage. This is

done by injecting mobile pigment
nanoparticles into the uniform
material. These mobile pigment
particles would be able to change
the colour of the uniforms,
depending upon the area that the
soldiers are in, to provide effective
camouflage.
In addition, nanotechnology can
help to lower the infrared signature
of both the soldiers and the military
vehicles. This will provide better
protection from infrared guided
weapons, or infrared surveillance
sensors. On another front, nanote
chnology will lead to lighter and
stronger materials with different
properties, which will mean a major
transformation of weapons used on
the battlefield.
66

Nanotechnology is a
meeting place for all
the different
branches of science,
including physics,
chemistry, and
biology. It creates a
scientific world
without boundaries.
Tell Me Why

How can nanotechnology help in military

communication?

he discovery of several new nanotech

nology advancements has made military
communication very sophisticated.
Nanoparticles can be used to create coated
polymer threads that can be woven into soldiers'
uniforms. These polymer threads can be used
as a means of communication between soldiers
on the move. The threads in the uniforms can be
set to different wavelengths, to eliminate the
possibility of anyone else listening in.
The discovery of new nanotechnology
advancements that can be integrated into
current wireless devices and systems will
enhance the capabilities of soldiers in the field
even further.

How can medical surveil

lance using nanotech
nology help the armed
forces?

N anotechnology

can
help to put in place a
medical
surveillance
system for soldiers. Soldiers
can wear this system which
would watch over their
health and stress levels,
and release drugs, or treat
wounds, as the need
arises.
This system will admin
ister painkillers in the case
of trauma or injury, and will
be able to inform doctors
about the soldier's health
status at all times.

Nanoweapons

Nanotechnology will also be

useful in creating new
weapons. These weapons,
which are still in the experi
mental stage, are called
nanoweapons.
. Sneha Rao

How is nanotechnology important in

agriculture?

The science of nanotechnology has a

great future in the field of agriculture.
This sector will benefit greatly from
nanotech-based tools to detect diseases
in a rapid manner, improve the ability of
plants to absorb nutrients, and promote
the molecular treatment of diseases.
The implementation of nanotechnology
in the form of small sensors and
monitoring devices will create a positive
impact in farming methods.
Nanoparticles can serve as 'magic
containing
herbicides,
bullets',
chemicals, or genes, which target
particular plant parts to release their
content.
Farmers can make excellent use of
nanotech-enabled 'smart' devices that
can perform two roles- that of being a
preventive, as well as an early warning
system. These devices can identify plant
related health issues even before they
become visible to the farmers, and simul
taneously, provide remedial measures.
Nanotechnology

Th is
nanotonic makes
me strong.

69

How can nanotechnology recycle agricultural

waste?

anotechnOlOgy can help reduce agricultural

waste and bring down pollution levels. For
example, when cotton is processed, some of the
fibres are discarded as waste, or used for
low-value products such as cotton balls, yarns,
and cotton batting. This waste can be trans
formed by nanotechnology into nanofibres that
can be used as a fertilizer, or pesticide
absorbent.
Scientists are now working on nano-engi
neered enzymes that will allow simple and cost
effective conversion of cellulose from waste
plant parts into ethanol.
Another example is rice husk that can become
a source of renewable energy with nanotech
nology. When rice husk is burned into thermal
energy or biofuel, a large amount of high quality
nano-silica is produced, which can be further
utilized to make other materials such as glass
and concrete.
70

Tell MeWhy

How can nanotechnology

agricultural growth?

The

increase

use of nanomaterials in
agriculture can reduce cost and effort,
increase efficiency, and lead to a better
environment.
Nanomaterials are becoming an
in
issue
important
increasingly
agriculture, particularly as additives or
agents in fertilizers, or plant protection
products. In the case of pests or drought,
nanotechnology makes it possible for an
automatic adjustment of pesticide or
irrigation levels, to counter these
challenges.
Nanosensors dispersed in the field can
also detect the presence of plant viruses,
and the level of soil nutrients. Slow
release fertilizers in nanocapsules can
reduce both fertilizer consumption and
environmental pollution.

Can't manage
my head weight.
Only nano can
save me!

Why are nanobarcodes important?

ar codes have revolutionized how everyone

from warehouse managers to pharmacists keep
track of items.
Nanobarcodes work much like conventional
bar codes, except that they are microscopic rods,
striped with bands of gold, silver, and other
metals. Varying the width, number, and order of
the stripes could generate thousands, if not
hundreds of thousands, of unique identifiers.
Ordinary barcodes only let researchers analyze
a few different types of molecules at a time.

I I I II I
Silver

72

Gold

Silver

Gold

Nanobarcode

Silver

Gold

Tell Me Why

With nanobarcodes, though,

thousands of different tags
could be added to a sample at
once. Scientists at Cornell
University have produced
microscopic probes or nanobar
codes that could tag multiple
pathogens in a farm which can
easily be detected, using any
fluorescent-based equipment.
In the future, nanobarcodes
will help researchers identify
patterns of perhaps hundreds
form
that
molecules
of
molecular
signatures
for
different diseases, and for
different stages of illness and
recovery.

Dry and Wet

Dry nanotechnology uses

inorganic materials
including metals and semi
conductors on a
nanoscale. Wet nanotech
nology uses nanoscale
materials on a biological
level. Wet nanotechnology
requires the presence of
water.

Cornell University

Nanotechnology

73

What is nanofabrication?

anofabrication technology, also known

as molecular manufacturing, cuts across
many technological systems and industries,
including microelectronic chip manufacturing,
power semiconductors, micro-electrome
chanical devices, information storage,
computer displays, optoelectronics, pharma
ceuticals, sensors, and biomedicine.
It is the process of designing and creating
devices on the nanoscale, and it can play an
important role in the development of new
ways to capture, store, and transfer energy.
In fact, nanotechnology has been a key
player in exploring new ways for producing
energy, and the processing of fuels like
carbon, gasoline, petroleum, solar energy,
and aircraft fuel.

Research on
Nanofabrication
in a Lab
Tell Me Why

Why is nanotechnology
more energy efficient for
use inLEOs?

ight Emitting Diodes or

LEOs, use much less energy
than conventional lighting.
An LED is a special kind of
diode that glows when
electricity passes through it.
Most L EOs are made from
a semi-conducting material
called gallium arsenide
phosphide. The best part
about LED lights is that they
don't release any heat,
unlike traditional bulbs. So
also, LED lighting uses only
a small percentage of
energy as compared to
regular bulbs, and they
don't contain any toxic
metals like mercury.
Today, scientists are
researching the use of
different nanotechnologies
to create more energy
efficient LEOs. Since LEOs
manufactured with nanote
chnology will also offer
better picture quality, they
will be used more and more
in the display panels of
appliances.
Nanotechnology

LED Lights

Utility Fog

Nanotechnology is based on
the concept of tiny, self-repli
cating robots. A collection of
tiny robots that can replicate a
physical structure is called a
Utility Fog. The term was first
used in 1993 by Dr. John
Storrs Hall.
Radha Nair

75

Dear, I 'm
nano powered.
No one can
discharge me.

What is the role of nanotechnology in the

development of batteries?

atteries are devices which store

electrical energy by converting it into
chemical energy, to be released slowly at a
later time.
In rechargeable batteries, this chemical
process is reversible, allowing the battery to
be reused many times.
Nanotechnology can be utilized for the
development of better batteries. It reduces
the possibility of batteries catching fire by
providing less flammable electrode material.
It also increases the available power from a
battery, and decreases the time required to
recharge a battery. These benefits are
achieved by coating the surface of an
electrode with nanoparticles.
Nanotechnology also increases the shelf
life of a battery. Researchers are predicting
that the use of silicon can increase the
capacity of batteries by ten times.
76

Sugar Cube Sized

Fuel cell

Tell Me Why

Solar Panel Films

in which
Nanoparticles are
incorporated

How can nanotechnology enhance the

efficiency of solar energy production?

he power output of the sun that reaches

the Earth could provide as much as 10,000
times more energy than the combined output
of all the commercial power plants on the
planet.
However, today's commercial solar cells,
usually made of silicon, are still relatively
expensive to produce.
Nanotechnology can reduce manufacturing
costs for solar cells as a result of using a low
temperature process. It can also reduce
installation costs by producing flexible rolls
instead of the rigid crystalline panels that are
used now.
In short, nanotechnology may provide an
answer to the efficiency problem, by tinkering
with solar power cells at a fundamental level,
to boost their ability to convert sunlight into
power, and by freeing industry to use less
expensive materials.
Nanotechnology

77

Nanollthography

Lithography Is a
method of printing
from a metal or stone
surface. In this
method, the areas to
be printed are not
raised as In usual
printing, but II'i8de
receptive to Ink, while
the other areas
repel Ink.
Nanollthography is
concerned with the
study and appUcatIon
of fabricating
nanometrHcale
structures.
78

Hooray .....
this nanoshield
w i l l defend your
nuclear sword.

How can nanotechnology help in

nuclear accident cleanup and waste
storage?

he site of a nuclear accident

poses many hazards to humans.
Nanotechnology uses multirobot
systems and nanomaterials in order
to decontaminate nuclear accident
sites.
applications
Nanotechnology
could also help to remove radioactive
ions from the environment. A group
of researchers from the Queensland
University of Technology, Australia,
have developed new nanomaterials
for radioactive waste cleanups in
water.
Developing efficient, and cost
effective nanomaterials is of great
significance to the nuclear industry,
as well as the environment.
Tell MeWhy

Fullerenes

Fullerenes are molecules

composed entirely of carbon, in
the form of a hollow sphere, ellipsoid, or tube. Fullerenes are
highly stable chemically, and have a variety of unusual
properties. The first fullerene was discovered in 1985 by Richard
E. Smalley, Robert F. Curl Jr., and Harold W. Kroto.

What are the economic benefits of

nanomaterials in the field of
energy?

Nano Fuel Cell developed

by Swedish Research
Council

uel cells that produce energy

generally have a catalyst, usually
platinum, which is very expensive.
Using nanotechnology, catalysts
can be designed through nanofabri
cation to provide efficient and
cheaper options.
Carbon nanomaterials are also
used in energy storage devices to
improve energy storage capacity,
provide faster recharge, provide
lighter weight components, and offer
longer cycle life.
The future of energy nanomaterials
is full of innovative advancements
that will revolutionize the energy
industry, and have a great impact on
environment and humanity.
79

Breaking News!

The latest, from the ever growing

world of nanotechnology - copper
wire that can collect electricity!
Jayan Thomas, an Indian-born
Assistant Professor in Florida
University, US, along with his
student Zenan Yu, has developed a
copper wire which can act both as
a conductor, and a battery! The
copper wire has brush type
nanowires on its surface. This
helps the wire to collect electricity,
effectively. So, it's goodbye to
batteries in electronic gadgets
because the copper wire itself can
replace batteries.

Jayan Thomas

80

Self Heating
Roads

Thanks to the work

done by researchers
at the University of
Houston, USA, we
will soon have self
heating roads.
These roads will be
embedded with
sheets of carbon
nanofibre that are
warmed by an
electrical element.
This will be of great
use in countries
where severe
winters make
driving on icy roads
dangerous.

What is the status of nanotechnology

in India?

Prof. CN.R. Rao

Nanotechnology

anotechnology is being hailed as

the next sunrise industry for India. The
Department
of
Science
and
TechnologyoftheCentral Government
has announced a national initiative in
nanomaterials, while the Jawaharlal
Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific
Research, Bangalore, has pioneered
the study of nanotechnology in India.
With the distinguished scientist Prof.
C. N. R Rao at the helm, the centre has
done world class research in nanote
chnology using state of the art
equipment.
A stream of nanotechnology-based
products is beginning to emerge in
India, with applications in the security
realm. Besides DRDO (Defence
Research & Development Organi
sation) serious researches are also
taking place in institutions like liT, and
Madras University.
81

Nanotechie's
Favo.u rite
Car ...

.... ........, ..\........L.\

,\

I ..C .!. .

"'/'\

Which are the main agencies in India

that are engaged in nanotechnology?

ndia has several key agencies in the

field of nanotechnology, the chief of
which is the Department of Science
and Technology, also referred to as
DST. India's principal programmme in
this area is the Nanoscience and
Technology Mission which was allotted
the sum of Rs 1 000 crores for a period
of five years. Around 200 projects have
been undertaken by these agencies. In
addition, Centres for Excellence for
Nanoscience and Technology have
also been established.
The Defence Research and Devel
opment Organization, the Council for
Scientific and Industrial Research, and
the Department of Biotechnology have
all been supporting researches in
nanoscience and technology.
82

Tell Me Why

Why is Dr. Meyyappan one of

the leaders in the field of
nanotechnology?

Dr. Meyy appan

Nanotechnology

r. Meyyappan has been at

the cutting edge of research in
nanotechnology for many
years.
An Indian by birth, he earned
a
bachelor's
degree
in
technology
and
chemical
engineering at the Regional
Engineering College of Madras
University in Trichy, India.
Later, he moved to the USA. In
1996 he joined NASA, and is
now the Director, Center for
Nanotechnology in NASA.
His research covers the
fields of carbon nanotube
based nanotechnolgy, protein
molecular
nanotubes,
electronics,
quantum
computing, and computational
nanotechnology.
He
has
authored, or co-authored,
more than 175 articles.
83

Why is Dr.
Minoo Dastoor
considered one of the luminaries in
this field?

Dr. Minoo N. Dastoor was born

in Mumbai, India. He immigrated to
the US in 1962, and received an
M.S. in Polymer Chemistry and a
Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology and
Immunology later.
Dr. Dastoor joined the Jet
Propulsion Laboratory in 1977. In
1989, he assumed responsibility as
a Manager for Environmental and
Biomedical Technology at JPL's
Center for Space Microelectronics
Technology. The thrust of his
programme was the design, and
flight validation of microdevices and
sensors for monitoring atmospheric
constituents and for detection of
life.
Presently, Dr. Dastoor serves as
the Senior Advisor to the Associate
Aerospace
of
Administrator
Technology.

Ii
,"

STAR FACT
New Hope

Nanotechnology
offers new hope in the
field of cancer
detection. A device
has been developed
that is able to detect
very low concentra
tions of protein cancer
markers in blood,
enabling diagnosis of
the disease in its
earliest stages.
Dev Nath

A handful of
self made carbon
tubes. My dream
realized!!

84

Tell Me Why

Dr. Deepak Srivastava

What is the role of Dr. Oeepak Srivastava at

NASA?

r. Deepak Srivastava is a Senior

Scientist and Technical Leader of Computa
tional Nanotechnology Investigation at
NASA Ames Research Center.
Dr. Srivastava has more than ten years of
experience in large scale modeling and
simulations of nanomaterials, processes,
and applications.
Over the past ten years, he has worked as
the Senior Lead Scientist and Group Leader
of Computational Materials Design and
Nanotechnology at NASA Ames.
In recent years, he has given about 100
presentations on Carbon nanotubes and
nanotechnology. He has authored or co-au
thored about 65 technical papers.
85

Why is Dr. Pulickal Ajayan famous?

Dr. Pulickal Ajayan

86

pioneer in nanotechnology,
Dr. Ajayan has been one of the key
figures in the development of
carbon nanotube technologies. His
early education was in Kerala,
India.
He earned his B. Tech in metal
lurgical engineering from Banaras
Hindu University, and Ph. D. in
materials science and engineering
from Northwestern
University,
USA, in 1989. He joined the
mechanical
engineering
and
materials science department of
Rice University, as a professor in
Engineering from July 2007.
Professor Ajayan's research
interests include synthesis and
structure-property relations of
nanostructures and nanocom
materials,
posites,
layered
science and applications of
nanomaterials, energy storage,
and phase stability in nanoscale
systems.
He has won several awards,
published one book, and 370
journal papers. Professor Ajayan
has given more than 250 invited
talks including several keynote
and plenary lectures in several
countries as well.
Tell Me Why

What are the advantages and

disadvantages of nanotech
nology for commerce?

anotechnology has been

heralded as a 'revolution' in
science, for two reasons: first,
because of its revolutionary
view of the way in which
chemicals and elements, such
as gold and silver, behave,
compared to traditional scien
tific understanding of their
properties. Second, the impact
of these new discoveries, as
applied to commerce, can
transform the daily life of
consumer products ranging
from sun tan lotions and
cosmetics, food packaging and
paints and coatings for cars,
housing and fabrics, medicine
and thousands of industrial
processes.
87

It is true that nanotechnology

is an exciting new field opening
up vast possibilities in different
areas, but it also poses several
problems as far as commerce
is concerned. Diamonds will
become cheaper, causing a
market crash in this commodity
Advances in nanotechnology
can develop alternate sources
of energy, and this will lower
the cost of oil, causing a
worldwide market crash.

88

Quantum
Teleportation

Teleportation is a
mode of instanta
neous transportation
in which matter is
dematerialized at one
place, and recreated
at another. Right now,
it exists only in books,
and imagination.
However, some work
has been done on
quantum teleportation
in which information
or the exact state of
an atom or photon,
can be transmitted a
short distance from
one location to
another.

Tell Me Why

Why does nanotechnology

several threats?

pose

iny nanomaterials are hidden in

many of the products we use every
day.
Nanoscale materials dissolve in
different ways, take on different
magnetic properties, react differently
to chemicals, or reflect light differently
from the way they would at normal size.
The very qualities that make nanoma
terials commercially desirable can also
make them more toxic than their
normal-size counterparts.
Because they are so small -the head
of a pin is about 1 million nanometres
across- nanomaterials can
be
extremely mobile. They may pass
easily into the bloodstream when
inhaled or swallowed, and possibly,
when applied to the skin. Once inside
the body, they seem to have access to
most or all tissues and organs, including
the brain.
Nanotechnology as a weapon, can
be very dreadful if it is in the hands of
terrorists. Biological and chemical
weapons will replace nuclear weapons,
and they can sweep away many nations
at a time. To sum up, nanotechnology
has great promise, but there are still
many questions to be answered about
how safe and how desirable it is.
89

N!!Jmmv !\!!JJ
t\Rlf jSfJ
!)\jIJ!!:J mJ
J!flJJ llElJ!j !)\jI.Jl!j !FIJJN

subscribe to Magic Pot online

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Chaithanya S. Vinu, a student

from Meenambalpuram, Tamil
Nadu, has pointed out a mistake in
the May issue of Tell Me Why,
Explorations. She writes that, on
page 31 , it is given that, Christopher
Columbus set sail to China but
reached America, which is not
correct. In fact, Columbus set sail to
India, greedy for wealth, just like
many of his contemporaries.

N . Shriram, a student of class 8,

SJNS Jadavbai Jain Higher
Secondary School, Chennai, points
out that in the May issue of Tell Me
Why - Explorations, that on page
92, the photograph of John Ross is
wrongly captioned as James Clark
Ross.

Nanotechnology

Thank you
Chaithanya
and Shriram
for your
valuable
feedbacks.
Pictures of
both the
explorers are
shown above
with correct
captions.
- Editor

NAND DICTIONARY
Atomic Force Microscope (AFM): A microscope
used in na notechnology. It does not use
light, but functions by the force between
the atoms in the sample.
Bottom-up: Building larger objects from smaller
building blocks. Eg; Construction of
machines using atoms and molecules.
Buckminsterfullerene: A variety of buckyballs and
carbon nanotubes. lt is named after the
a rchitect, Buckminster Fuller, fa mous for
desig ning the geodesic dome.
Buckybal l: A molecu le made up of 60 carbon atoms,
a rranged in hexagonal shapes l i ke a soccer
ball.
Carbon nanotube: A cylinder-shaped structure
resembling a rolled up sheet of g raphite.
Fullerene: A third form of carbon, after diamond
a n d gra phite.
Gray Goo: A mass of destructive nanorobots,
with the capacity to wipe out a l l l ife.
Lithography: The process of copying a feature onto
a surface using l ight, electron beams or
X-rays.

MEMS: Micro Electromechanical Systems used i n

integ rated circuits.
Nanobots : Small self-repl icating nanorobots.
Nanites: Mach ines with atom-sized components.
Nanocrystals: Nanoscale semiconductor crystals,
typically about 1 0 nm in diametre.
Nanoscale: 1 -1 00 nm range
Quantum computer: A computer based on quantum
bits that ca n represent any combi nation of
one a n d zero.
Quantum dots: Nanometre-sized semiconductor
crystals.
Scanning tunnelling microscope: A machine used in
na notechnology. It uses the beams of electron
to sca n the su rface of a cell.
Self-assembly: Resulted from the random motion of
molecu les a n d the affi nity of their binding sites.
Semiconductor: A su bstance such as silicon,
which cond ucts electricity u nder certa in
circumstances.
Superconductor: A material through which electricity
is conducted without any resistance.
Top-down: The building of small objects using larger
items. An a pproach used in nanotech n ology.

I Wonder
Whv'Questi on of the Month

What
pop?

makes

popcorn

A popcorn kernel is actually

a seed. It has a tiny plant
embryo in its centre, which is
surrounded by a soft and
starchy material that contains
water. The embryo is again
surrounded by a hard shell
named hull. As the popcorn
is heated, the water turns
into steam, which builds
pressure inside the hull.
When the hull can no longer
contain the pressure, the
kernel explodes, and a fluffy
new ball of popcorn is born,
that too, within seconds. Isn't
it amazing?
Indhu Thomas

Question sent by:

Ankita Mishra, Ghaziabad, UP.

Send us your questions

E mail: tellmewhy@mmp.in
Tell Me Why

Winners ofthe GK Contest - 1 2,

Heritage Sites- held in the May
issue of Tell Me Why.
1 . Ashrith N. Raj

4.

Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Galibeedu,

No.3, Type III,

A. Sahitya

Kodagu, Karnataka.

Kendriya Vidyalaya,

2.

Staff Qtrs, University Campus,

Nitesh Kakkar

H- 60, Reserve Bank Officers Quarters,

Puducherry.

Poorvi Marg, VasantVihar, New Delhi

S. AJUshee Sinha

Niranjana, Chembukavu,

Shyamnagar, Dist - 24 Pgs (N),

Thrissur, Kerala.

West Bengal.

3.Abhay P.J.

1 521111, Nimtala Ghat Road,

GK (ontest -1 2 Heritage Sites - ANSWERS

1.

Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya 2. Qutub Minar, Delhi

3 . Stone Chariot, Hampi
4. Sanchi Stupa, Sanchi
5. Red Fort, Delhi
6. Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

Nanotechnology

95

Here.s a contest for our readers. Identify the

footballers, from the photos given here.
All you need to do is send us an email naming
each one with the proper number.
(PLEASE GIVE YOUR POSTAL ADDRESS ALSO
IN THE E-MAIL) You are also welcome to send
your answers by post.

Five winners will be awarded prizes. In case

there are more than five correct entries, the
winners will be chosen by lot.

last Date to receive entries:

2014 J U LY 2 5th
Our e-mail address:

childrensdivision@mmp.in
Please enter

TMW GK CONTEST 1 4
-

in the subject line of your email.

Tell Me Why

MANORAMA TELL ME WHY - NANOTECHNOLOGY

Editor: Ammu Mathew

Editor-in-(harge: A.V. Harisanker *

Printed and Published by V. Sajeev George, on behalf of M.M. Publications Ltd, P.B. No. 226, Koltayam - 686001
at M.M. Publications Ltd, P.B. No. 226, Koltayam - 686 001 and Malayala Manorama Press, Koltayam - 686 039
and published from M.M. Publications ltd, P.B. No. 226, Koltayam - 686 001.

Responsible for selection of new, under the PRB Act