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 What is nanotechnology? |
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How can the nano-coating change the surface chemistry? |
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How big is a nanometer? |
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What is needed to ensure a good lasting coating? |
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Where can we see nanotechnology in consumer devices
& other applications now? |
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 What is nanotechnology? |
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Often described as the technology of the future, nanotechnology is attracting growing interest worldwide. The word 'nano' comes from the Greek word 'dwarf' and it means that the size of the particles are really, really small. It also refers to the creation, investigation and application of structures, molecular materials, internal interfaces or surfaces with at least one critical dimension or manufacturing tolerances of (typically) less than 100 nanometers. |
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How can the nano-coating change the surface
chemistry? |
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Nano-coating, which is less than 100nm will form a layer on the undulating surface of most substrates. Any surfaces including glass or ceramics will have many pits and unevenness when viewed in high magnification. If the coating has the properties of non-stick feature, then it will self assemble to have its 'sticky' side to orientate to adhere to the surface, thus having the 'non-stick' exposed. The coating will work effectively on a mono-layer concept. |
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How big is a nanometer? |
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A nanometer (nm) is equivalent to one millionth of a millimeter, and that corresponds approximately to the length of a chain of 5 to 10 atoms. By comparison, the cross-section of a human hair is about 50,000 times larger. If a nano particle size is 10 nanometer, one can have one hundred thousand nano particles lining up on a length of 1 millimeter. For a better understanding of the size a nanometer, please see the nano scale illustration on the right. |
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What is needed to ensure a good lasting
coating? |
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Surface preparation is always important to ensure a long lasting effect on the surface. It is therefore important to ensure that the surface is removed from debris, dirt, oil, grease etc before application of the nano-coating. |
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Where can we see nanotechnology in consumer devices & other applications right now? |
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According to lists compiled by the US government's National Nanotechnology Initiative, nanotechnology can already be seen around us today in:
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- Computer hard drives
- Automotive parts and catalytic converters
- Scratch and wear-resistant paints and coatings
- Sunscreens and lipsticks(Titanium Dioxide nano particles are transparent, yet absorb UV light at the same time)
- Longer lasting tennis balls, and hardwearing yet lightweight tennis racquets
- Metal cutting tools with longer life
- Anti-bacterial bandages incorporating silver nano particles
- Anti-static packaging for sensitive electronic equipment
- Self-cleaning windows and stain resistant fabrics
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