Gold NanoparticlesNanotechnology researchers are looking into possibilities of using gold at thenanoscale to target drug deliveries, clean up the environment, and even treatpersons suffering from hyperthermia.Gold is an element used in jewelry, coins, dentistry, and electronic devices. Goldis even used in some medicines. Bulk gold is considered an inert material in thatit doesn’t corrode or tarnish. As with all metals, gold has good electrical andthermal conductivity. Gold’s capability to resist corrosion as well as its highelectrical conductivity make it useful for forming contacts in electronic devices.Gold has been used in various medical treatments over the centurieswithout harmful effects. It was therefore natural for researchers to look to goldnanoparticles for medical applications rather than using elements such asplatinum, which can be toxic in certain circumstances. Forming gold intonanoparticles allows researchers to use gold in areas that are too small for bulkgold to reach and brings with it new capabilities.
Carbon nanotubes Increased use of carbon nanotubes in consumer and industrial products havescientists asking about the implications of CNTs in our environment. Many endproduct applications include polymer composites, drug delivery systems,coatings and films, military applications, electronics, cosmetics, healthcare,among others.CNTs are desirable for many applications because of their highsurface area to weight ratio. They are lightweight and highly elastic compared tocarbon fibers, and deliver higher surface area for increased chemical interactionin its specific application.
Exercitation One application of nanotechnology in medicine currently beingdeveloped involves employing nanoparticles to deliver drugs, heat, light or othersubstances to specific types of cells (such as cancer cells). Particles areengineered so that they are attracted to diseased cells, which allows directtreatment of those cells. This technique reduces damage to healthy cells in thebody and allows for earlier detection of disease. For example, nanoparticles that deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to cancercells are under development. Tests are in progress for targeted delivery ofchemotherapy drugs and their final approval for their use with cancer patients ispending.Nanomedicine
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Increased use of carbon nanotubes in consumer and industrial products
have scientists asking about the implications of CNTs in our environment.
Chemical Engineering & Gas Processing
