Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of matter at the nanoscale (1–100 nm) where materials exhibit unique physical, chemical, and biological properties. It is a multidisciplinary frontier science with transformative potential across sectors, making it critical for emerging economies like India.

Nanotechnology: Features and Significance

1. Enhanced Material Properties: Greater strength, conductivity, reactivity, and durability.
2. Precision and Miniaturisation: Enables targeted therapies, nanosensors, nanoelectronics.
3. Cost Efficiency: Nano-enabled solutions can reduce input use in agriculture, water treatment, and energy.
4. Environmental Benefits: Cleaner production processes, pollutant removal, and efficient recycling.

Nanotechnology as one of the key technologies in 21st century

In recent years nanotechnology has revolutionized scientific research across the globe in a big way. Today, from agriculture to aerospace research, nanotechnology’s impact is being felt. Research in nanotechnology spans across an array of fields such as health, environment, agriculture, food and beverages, product development, space technology, power generation, genetics, biotechnology, forensic science, electronics and communications.

At a commercial level the impact of nanotechnology is on major industries and sectors like Agriculture, consumer products, electronics and healthcare. Some applications that make nanotechnology one of the key technologies in 21st century are discussed below:

In the agriculture sector, in one of remarkable developments Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) has developed a Nano Fertliser Nano urea. Nano fertilizers are nutrients that are encapsulated or coated within nanomaterial. It enables controlled release, & its subsequent slow diffusion into the soil. It contains nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in nanoparticle form. It will facilitate better nutrient uptake by plants. It will also reduce nutrient wastage & lower fertilizer requirements.

Nanosilver provides an effective, broad-spectrum antimicrobial coating to the surface of various consumer products. Therefore silver nanotechnology is being used in a wide range of consumer products such as wound dressings, textiles, food storage containers, paints and personal care appliances.

Nanotechnology has significantly scaled down the size of transistors and chips used in the production of computers and other electronic goods.

Nanotechnology has made great strides in the field of medicine. Several nano- sized gadgets and materials are being developed to diagnose and treat diseases like cancer more effectively. Nano-pharmacology helps to produce smart drugs that have negligible side effects.

Nanoscale thin films on eyeglasses, computer and camera displays, windows, and other surfaces can make them water-repellent, antireflective, self-cleaning, resistant to ultraviolet or infrared light, antifog, antimicrobial, scratch-resistant, or electrically conductive.

Scientists are coating fabrics with a thin layer of zinc oxide nanoparticles that give better protection from UV radiation.

Using nanoparticles in the manufacture of solar cells is beneficial as they can reduce manufacturing costs by using a low temperature process.

Conclusion:

Nanotechnology is playing a transformative role in many sector, offering path-breaking solutions for diagnostics, drug delivery, infection prevention, and more. As nanotechnology research accelerates, it holds the potential to further revolutionize various technologies in making it more effective, accessible, and affordable.