Chapter 3: Classification and Properties of Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials are classified by their dimensional characteristics and origins, distinguishing between natural and engineered variations. Their properties, including physical, chemical, electrical, optical, and magnetic characteristics, are significantly affected by their size and shape, leading to diverse applications in technology and medicine.
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What we have learnt
- Nanomaterials can be classified based on dimensions as zero-dimensional, one-dimensional, two-dimensional, or three-dimensional.
- There is a distinction between natural nanomaterials that occur without human intervention and engineered nanomaterials that are synthetically produced.
- The properties of nanomaterials differ from bulk materials due to factors like high surface area, which enhances reactivity and alters conductivity.
Key Concepts
- -- ZeroDimensional (0D) Nanomaterials
- Nanomaterials that have all dimensions at the nanoscale, such as quantum dots and nanoparticles.
- -- OneDimensional (1D) Nanomaterials
- Nanomaterials possessing one dimension outside the nanoscale, like nanowires and nanotubes.
- -- TwoDimensional (2D) Nanomaterials
- These have two dimensions beyond the nanoscale, including materials like graphene and nanosheets.
- -- Natural Nanomaterials
- Nanomaterials found in nature, such as volcanic ash or sea spray, formed without human intervention.
- -- Engineered Nanomaterials
- Nanomaterials deliberately created for specific functions, like carbon nanotubes or gold nanoparticles.
- -- Tailoring
- The process of designing nanomaterials by adjusting their shape and size to enhance specific properties for targeted applications.
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