Studying things on a nano level leads to the production of better tools, products and technologies that can meet emerging energy, environmental and medical challenges. This applied scientific field is called nanotechnology and is the study of nanoparticles, particles at a scale of one-billionth of a meter. It is unique because materials exhibit different properties at this scale, like better conduction of electricity or greater strength. Also, at this scale, surface areas are larger increasing the opportunity for interactions with surrounding materials.
Nanotechnology was applied to solar power systems and led to the development of thin layers of semi-conductor material nano-structured from cadmium and copper iridium diselenide instead of silicon. This photovoltaic material is being applied to inexpensive bases decreasing manufacturing costs and increasing availability of solar power systems especially useful in developing areas of the world.
There are negative aspects of nanotechnology to consider. In 2006, the EPA required manufacturers of nanosilver (used to kill germs in shoe liners, food storage containers, air fresheners and washing machines) to prove it’s application does not pose dangers to public health or water systems because by nature nanoparticles are minute, can be ubiquitous and difficult to trace.
