You hear the word “nanotechnology,” and what do you think of? Science fiction, maybe robots, something along those lines? In reality, nanotechnology is making life less difficult for all of us. At its heart, nanotechnology is the science of dealing with matter on an atomic and molecular scale. The hope is that scientists will use nanotechnology to make new materials and products that boast an array of purposes.
The practical side of nanotechnology
As an example, Science Daily ran a feature story about scientists creating a way to use nanotechnology to lessen the amount of friction in car engines and machines. If this technology becomes widespread, it may help lengthen the lives of machines and engines and enable them to operate more effectively. Based on the Science Daily story, a team of scientists created tiny polymer particles that were dispersed in automobile engine base oils. When tested under conditions that simulated those present in car engines, these tiny particles were found to have an amazing capability to reduce friction.
More efficient motors
There are friction-reducing additives used by lots of industries today, however when these tiny polymer particles were released at a low concentration they were able to decrease friction by 55 percent more than standard additives currently can. As the field of nanotechnology continues to grow we can expect more breakthroughs like this.
The emerging world of nanotechnology
So, when you think of nanotechnology consider the engine in your car. In the not too distant future we may have nanotechnology to thank for more fuel-efficient cars, which obviously means saving you money.
