Nanotechnology is a multi-disciplinary science that looks at how we can manipulate matter
at the molecular and atomic levels to create new materials and structures with amazing
properties.
So what does that actually mean?
Well, nano means objects that are so small that they exist in the nanometer scale, which
is one million times smaller than the head of a pin.
In this amazing nano world, naturally occurring atoms and molecules can be turned into tiny
building blocks.
It means that we can make and build new things out of these tiny components using this technology
to solve many problems that traditional large-scale engineering simply cannot.
It might sound like science fiction, but imagine a pile of sand that could self-assemble itself
into a house.
Sounds far-fetched, but with the right building blocks and smart materials, we could create
nano machines to build the structure slowly over time, just like a tree grows in nature.
Outside the house, surfaces are coated in nanoparticles that convert sunlight to household
energy.
The window is not only self-clean, but can also act as blinds.
Inner walls give off light naturally, or become TV screens, or even works of art depending
on what you want.
Floors keep themselves clean, and dishwashers deliver spotless loads without using any water.
The clothes you wear and the fabrics of your carpet and furniture all contain nanoparticles
which will prevent stains or wrinkles while also killing germs.
Familiar personal items, like phones and laptops, are made out of special fabrics that can be
folded up like a hanger-chief and placed in your pocket for when you go out.
Medicine is another field which nanotechnology could revolutionise.
New, non-invasive medical treatments could be used to prevent and cure illness.
Regular medication can be dispensed by nanopatches, and treatments for serious diseases like cancer
could be delivered directly to the affected area, and in doing so, reduce side effects
of powerful drugs.
We could even improve our environment through nanotechnology and its applications.
Lightweight vehicles made out of new nanomaterials might feature in viral-friendly components
that remove carbon dioxide from the air as we drive.
New eco-friendly cities that could help sequester carbon, neutralise airborne toxins, filter
waste water, and convert the garbage to energy may also be possible.
And while this scenario sounds amazing, this technology is a lot closer to reality than
you might think, with many materials available today already incorporating these examples
of nanotechnology into their design and construction.
For example, high efficiency solar panels, self-cleaning surfaces, smart glass that adjusts
the amount of light it lets through, shirts that resist stains, and filtration devices
already exist.
Recent medical studies have even shown the potential for nanoparticles not only to deliver
medicines, but potentially they could also help repair injuries such as spinal cord damage.
The potential benefits of nanotechnology are very exciting, but the Australian government
is also very mindful to ensure that people in the environment are safe from any possible
unintended consequences.
As a result, Australian researchers and regulators are always looking to identify potential hazards,
assess risks, and develop control plans to ensure the safety of all products.
As part of this, the Australian government's National Enabling Technology Strategy, NETS,
is providing a coordinated approach to managing these challenges and ensuring that all Australians
benefit from the predicted social and economic gains of nanotechnology.
Of course, the cars and cities completely built out of nanomaterials may still be some
time away, but currently, scientists working in biology, chemistry, physics, and in engineering
are all working together in the study of these tiny particles. And by building on the current
advances, nanotechnology will soon build smart devices from natural products that will keep
both us and our environment healthy in the future.
And as for our self-assembling house, don't think it's impossible. There are plenty of
examples that suggest it might happen one day. After all, each one of us assembled ourselves.
