There are several definitions for the term nanotechnology. It most commonly refers to the production of materials with nanosized domains (typically between 1 - 100 nm). People most commonly imagine computer chip miniaturization and nanobots when they think of nanotechnology. However, the field of nanotechnology pertains, broadly speaking, to all modes of research and technology development at atomic, molecular or macromolecular levels. It encompasses research by people from the material science and engineering fields, condensed matter physics, chemistry, biology (and biophysics and biochemistry), medical and pharmaceutical backgrounds.

Unique properties can be associated with assemblies of atoms or molecules on a scale between that of the individual building blocks and the bulk material. For example, many metals and alloys become much stronger when their grain sizes are reduced to less than 100 nm. The manufacture of computer hard drives with nano-thin layers of magnetic materials greatly increases their storage capacity. Using zirconia of with nano-sized grains in carbon monoxide sensors improves their sensitivity. Using nanocrystalline alloys and ceramics in spark plug electrodes and in engine cylinder liners results in wear resistance and fuel combustion, enabling car engines to function more efficiently. These examples highlight the improvements which can be made through nanotechnology research and development. At this stage the applied use of nanoparticles is limited and still under development, but the possibilities are limitless. It is therefore a key objective of researchers in this field is to create and use structures, devices and systems that have novel properties and functions because of their small and/or intermediate size.

Areas where nanoparticles have already made commercial impact include chemical-mechanical polishing, wear ceramics, magnetic recording tapes, sunscreens, automotive catalyst supports, biolabeling, electro-conductive coatings and optical fibers.

For further information about the NIRT- Structure of Nanocrystals work, please contact Professor Simon Billinge (billinge@pa.msu.edu).