In order to determine the properties of a material, detailed knowledge of the structures it contains at the atomic level is required. This information can be obtained using conventional X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods for ordinary materials.
Silicon nanotubes are tube-like nanoparticles which are made of silicon atoms. They are similar to carbon nanotubes and widely used in the semiconductor industry due to their exceptional electromechanical properties.
In 2001, molecular nanowires millions of times tinier than a human hair were developed. Researchers discovered that nudging these tubes with a sharp tube can modify their ability to carry an electric current.
In the recent years, the printing industry has begun experimenting with nanotechnology, from printing inks to the printing process.
By Stuart Milne
25 Sep 2014
Nanolithography is a field of nanotechnology which deals with the study and application of fabricating nanometer-scale structures. Since 2007, nanolithography has gained a high level of research interest from academia as well as from industry.
Studies on single nanowires and other nanostructures are paving the way for next-generation photonic devices such as optically and electrically pumped nanowire lasers. While the fundamentals of traditional laser technologies are well understood, a great deal of research has been focused on investigating nanowire laser technology.
Nanocomposites are found in a number of places and the use of nanoparticle-rich materials predates the understanding of nature of these materials. Nanoscale organo-clays have been used to control flow of polymer solutions since the mid-1950s. Nanocomposites have even provided the aerospace industry with a variety of material solutions.
By Stuart Milne
23 Sep 2014
Nanotechnology is a rapidly developing science and a number of methods are now available for producing nanoparticles. However, some of these methods employ high energy requirements, low material conversions and the use of hazardous chemicals. Hence, there is a growing need to develop eco-friendly nanoparticle synthesis methods.
By Stuart Milne
19 Sep 2014
Black silicon is a semiconductor material with a needle-shaped surface structure. It's similar to silicon but with a modified surface that has extremely low reflectivity and a high absorption rate of visible and infrared light. Black Silicon has helped researchers develop more efficient solar cells and it may also offer benefits for the medical sector.
Research and development does not currently seem to be a focus area for Saudi Arabia. While their commitment is still quite frugal, it is increasing, which means that opportunities may begin to open up which may both reduce the brain drain and open up opportunities for more nanotechnology research.