Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Lopez, Quezon Branch

GEED 10083
Science, Technology, and Society

MODULE 3:
Specific Issues in Science, Technology,
and Society

LESSON 4:
The Nano World

Christopher B. Valencia, LPT, MAED

Professor
LESSON OBJECTIVES

After successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

 Define nanotechnology
 Characterize nanoscale
 Describe the various uses of nanotechnology
 Explain the status of the use of nanotechnology in the Philippines

How small is a Nano Scale?

The term nanotechnology was first used in 1974 by the late Norio Taniguchi1 (University of
Tokyo) to refer to the ability to engineer materials precisely at the scale of nanometres.2 This is
in fact its current meaning; ‘engineer materials’ is usually taken to comprise the design,
characterization, production and application of materials, and the scope has nowadays been
widened to include devices and systems rather than just materials. Nanotechnology is thus
defined as the design and fabrication of materials, devices and systems with control at
nanometre dimensions. The essence of nanotechnology is therefore size and control. Because
of the diversity of applications, the plural term ‘nanotechnologies’ is preferred by some;
nevertheless, they all share the common feature of control at the nanometre scale.

A nanometer is one-billionth of a meter. For example, a sheet of paper is about 100,000

nanometers thick; a single gold atom is about a third of a nanometer in diameter. Dimensions
between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers are known as the nanoscale.

Nanotechnology is the creation of materials and devices by controlling matter at the levels
of atoms, molecules, and super-molecular structures , which means that it is the use of very
small particles of materials to create new large-scale materials. Nanotechnology whose form
and importance are yet undefined is “revolutionary nano”: that is, technologies emerging from a
new nanostructured material, or from the electronic properties of quantum dots, or from
fundamentally new types of architectures – based on nanodevices – for use in computation and
information storage and transmission. Nanosystems that use or mimic biology are also
intensely interesting. Even more thorough definitions and concepts of nanotechnology have
been used by researchers in different areas as well, however, the key issue is the size of
particles because the properties of materials are dramatically affected by the scale of the
nanometer(nm), 10−9 meter(m). Actually, nanotechnology is not a new science or technology
with current development as we spoke of above.
The research on nanotechnology has been very active in the recent two decades for two
reasons. One is the interesting features at the nanoscale, as we discussed in section I, and the
other is that the development and application of nanotechnology rely on the rapid development
of other related sciences and technologies, such as physics and chemistry. According to the
subject of nanotechnology includes “almost any materials or devices which are structured on
the nanometer scale in order to perform functions or obtain characteristics which could not
otherwise be achieved.” To better understand the differences among various scales with
regards to nanotechnology, Table I shows the categories of the scales and their corresponding
related areas . Just because materials can be made into very small particles does not
immediately mean that they have any practical use. However, the fact that these materials can
be made at this nanoscale gives them the potential to have some interesting properties. Table II
gives the characteristic lengths in solidstate science mode with respect to nanoscales .
According to quantum theory, materials at the nanoscale, between 1 nm and 250 nm, lie
between the quantum effects of atoms, molecules and the bulk properties of materials.
How to view Nanomaterials

Nanomaterials are cornerstones of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Nanostructure

science and technology is a broad and interdisciplinary area of research and development
activity that has been growing explosively worldwide in the past few years. It has the potential
for revolutionizing the ways in which materials and products are created and the range and
nature of functionalities that can be accessed. It is already having a significant commercial
impact, which will assuredly increase in the future.
Nanoscale materials are defined as a set of substances where at least one dimension is
less than approximately 100 nanometers. A nanometer is one millionth of a millimeter -
approximately 100,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. Nanomaterials are of
interest because at this scale unique optical, magnetic, electrical, and other properties emerge.
These emergent properties have the potential for great impacts in electronics, medicine, and
other fields.

Some nanomaterials occur naturally, but of particular interest are engineered nanomaterials
(EN), which are designed for, and already being used in many commercial products and
processes. They can be found in such things as sunscreens, cosmetics, sporting goods,
stainresistant clothing, tires, electronics, as well as many other everyday items, and are used in
medicine for purposes of diagnosis, imaging and drug delivery. Engineered nanomaterials are
resources designed at the molecular (nanometre) level to take advantage of their small size and
novel properties which are generally not seen in their conventional, bulk counterparts. The two
main reasons why materials at the nano scale can have different properties are increased
relative surface area and new quantum effects. Nanomaterials have a much greater surface
area to volume ratio than their conventional forms, which can lead to greater chemical reactivity
and affect their strength. Also at the nano scale, quantum effects can become much more
important in determining the materials properties and characteristics, leading to novel optical,
electrical and magnetic behaviours.

A wide variety of analytical methods have been used for evaluating the physico-chemical
characteristics of manufactured nanomaterials (for a review, see Lin et al., 2014): these include
chromatography, electrophoresis, magnetic resonance, X-ray scattering and spectroscopy,
mass spectrometry, circular dichroism spectroscopy, zeta-potential measurements, as well as
techniques of microscopy on which the present article will especially be focused.
In fact, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is one of the most efficient tools for the
characterization of nanomaterials. TEM provides high resolution of minute structural details,
which is essential, for instance, to obtain information about the crystalline structure and
granularity of the nanoparticles (Williams and Carter, 2009). Through TEM it is also possible to
detect alterations in nanoparticle morphology due to the incorporation of drugs at different
concentrations, thus representing an indispensable technique for the development of drug
delivery systems (Govender et al., 2000). To be suitable for observation at TEM, nanomaterials
usually need to be dehydrated, but it is also possible to freeze them (cryo-TEM), thus better
preserving their original morphology (Williams and Carter, 2009). Although TEM provide 2D
images, the technique of electron tomography can be used to create 3D images using a
sequence of micrographs taken at different tilts (Williams and Carter, 2009). Scanning electron
microscopy (SEM) uses electrons for high resolution imaging of the sample surface (Reimer,
2000), and represents a valid tool to investigate some nanomaterials (Bogner et al., 2005). The
topography of the nanostructured samples can be preserved using special techniques that
avoid any manipulation (environmental or wet SEM) or preserve their morphology by rapid
freezing (cryoSEM).
The environmental SEM, allowing analyses on hydrated materials without fixing, drying,
freezing or coating the specimen (Bogner et al., 2005), is especially suitable to characterize
microspheres and microcapsules (Xiong et al. 2012). Cryo-SEM method has been applied for
the characterization of microspheres (Allan-Wojtas et al., 2008) and nanoemulsions (Hoesli et
al., 2012). Polarized light microscopy (PLM) may be used for the pre liminary identification of
many liquid-crystalline structures (Gaisin et al., 2010). The anisotropic systems cause a
deviation in the plane of polarized light and show typical black and white or colored textures.
Based on this texture, liquid-crystalline structures can be classified in: (i) lamellar liquid
crystalline phase which reveals oily streaks with inserted “maltese crosses” in the micrograph;
(ii) hexagonal liquid-crystalline structure which is indicated by a fanlike texture (Müller-
Goymann, 2004; Carvalho et al., 2010; Rissi et al., 2014). However, PLM can be applied to
particles whose size approaches the wavelength of visible light (400 to 700 nm); for liquid
crystal particles presenting smaller dimensions, TEM is necessary to resolve them (Müller-
Goymann, 2004).
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is one of the most popular scanning probe microscopy
methods (Binning et al., 1986) and the interaction of nanoparticles with the AFM probe has
been extensively studied from different experimental points of view (AFM tip modification,
nanoparticle manipulation, substrate influence) (Theil Hansen et al. 1998; Lee et al., 1998;
Klapetek et al., 2011; Henry, 2005). AFM allows detection and imaging of nanoparticles from
0.5 nm in diameter and, although it has been mostly applied to inorganic nanoconstructs, it is
also suitable to characterize hydrated nanomaterials.

Nanomanufacturing

Nanotechnologies have attracted wide interests and evolved rapidly in the past two
decades. They are expected to have transformative impacts on the health, environment,
energy, and many other aspects of our society. However, their applications so far are severely
hindered by the lack of matured and affordable manufacturing technologies to realize systems
in large scales where millions of nanoscale elements are assembled to form commercial
products.

Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at dimensions between 1 and

100 nanometers. Materials at these scales usually exhibit unique characteristics and can
provide significant technical and economic advancement with novel applications. In the domain
of energy, foreseen applications include, solidstate lighting, low-power display, fuel cells,
hydrogen storage, battery materials, solar power, catalysis, etc. In the domain of environment,
nanotechnologies can revolutionize sensing, remediation, emission reduction, membrane
separations, coating, radioactive waste containment, etc. The importance of nanotechnology
has been recognized by governments. In the U.S., a national nanotechnology initiative (NNI)
that coordinates federal nanoscale research and development activities among different
agencies was established in 2001. Since then, more than 8.3 billion dollars has been invested
on nanotechnology. Although promising, most nanotechnology research only focuses on
dozens to a few hundred particles or molecules. To realize large-scale devices and
commercializable products, massive assembly techniques with high-volume high-rate output
are needed. This poses a great challenge to the nanomanufacturing research community. In
this paper, we summarize a survey study of current nanomanufacturing techniques.

Nanotechnology in the Philippines

Although it seems that there is an inevitability to the development of nanotechnology, many

ask whether there are opportunities for developing countries in nanotechnology. The question
that is often asked is: “Is nanotechnology only for the rich? Can we use nanotechnology in a
developing country?” In 2008, the Philippines’ Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
convened an interdisciplinary group of 14 local scientists1 to craft a nanotechnology roadmap
for the Philippines. The group initially identified five key sectors for application of
nanotechnology, which also coincided with the priority areas of DOST for R&D support. These
areas were: (1) information and communications technology and semiconductors, (2) food and
agriculture, (3) energy, (4) health, and (5) environment. A review of the world-wide advances in
these areas was carried out, including an assessment of the theoretical bases behind these
developments. The resulting list of nanotechnologies was then assessed based on the following
criteria: environmental and health hazards and risks, priorities of the UN Millennium
Development Goals, Philippine priorities, existing capabilities and required investment.
Nanotechnologies which scored low in environmental and health hazards and risks were not
considered further. The process and the scoring system are shown in Figures 1 and 2,
respectively. The areas that were identified for prioritization based on the scoring system were
the following: (1) Energy: nanostructured solar energy devices; (2) Applications of nanosensor
technology to food, agriculture, and environment; (3) Nanotechnology for environmental
remediation and water; and (4) Development of nanocomposite materials using local minerals
and biological resources.

Nanostructured solar devices

Solar cells represent one of the most promising alternative energies for the Philippines due
to its relative abundance, portability, scalability and environmental profile. A collaborative
research program involving the Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University and the
University of the Philippines is being supported by DOST which will focus on the development
of solar cells based on solid state nanomaterials and dye sensitized materials,including the use
of graphene. One project will focus on solid state based solar cells with embedded
nanoparticles and graphene. Other projects on the development of nanosensors and the use of
nanoparticles for environmental remediation are in preparation. Parallel efforts will also be
launched in education, metrology and risk assessment. Nanocomposite materials A number of
projects have been funded by DOST on the utilization of naturally-occurring minerals in
nanocomposite materials. Some of these are listed below: • Production of Organoclays
(Nanoclays) from Local Bentonite: This project synthesized organoclays (nanoclays) using
bentonite and established the process parameters of producing organoclays in bench scale
(approx. 25 kg capacity). The project also conducted acceptability tests of the product in the
local market. • Nanocomposites from Recycled Polycarbonate and Treated Clay: This study
sought to develop nanocomposites using recycled polycarbonate from post-consumer compact
discs and locally modified montmorillonite. • Synthesis and Characterization of PET
(Polyethylene Terephthalate) - CNT (Carbon Nanotube) Nanocomposites: This study developed
high-strength engineering plastics by intercalating with carbon nanotubes. • Production of
Recycled Polycarbonate-Organoclay Nanocomposites: A pilot plant was put up for the
processing of nanocomposite products from recycled polycarbonate-nanoclay blends, such as:
nanocomposite pellets (for injection moulding), printed circuit board substrates, plastic cups for
current transformers and plastic tiles. • Development of Local Bioactive Polymer Nanofibrous
Scaffold by Electrospinning: The objective of this study was to develop nanofibrous scaffold for
tissue engineering. In-vitro (simulated body fluid) and in-vivo testing (animal implantation) were
conducted on the develop scaffolds. • Development of Electrospun PMMA/Clay Nanofibrous
Membrane for Wastewater Treatment • Halloysite–Epoxy Hybrid Nanocomposite as Molding
Compound for Integrated Circuit Packaging: The objective of this research is to beneficiate
microtubullar silicate halloysite nanotubes (HNT) from our local deposits and develop HNT-
Epoxy Resin Hybrid nanocomposite for application in the semiconductor industry

In late 2008, a local paint company, Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines, Inc., conducted the
world’s largest demonstration project on the air cleaning properties of paint which incorporates
nanoparticle titanium dioxide, a photocatalytic ultrafine TiO2 developed by Cristal Global. In this
experiment, the paint was applied to the interior and exterior of a major metro lightrail transit
station on EDSA Avenue in Metro-Manila covering about 1,200 square meters of the station
walls and embankment. Passive air samplers were used to monitor NO2 levels at 24 hour
intervals, and eighteen sample points were deployed in different locations around the station, as
well asseveral reference points outside the station. A weather station that measured barometric
pressure, temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed and direction was installed in the station
and traffic volume was also considered.

The future of nanotechnology in the Philippines is bright. The Philippine government has
identified nanotechnology as one its major areas of development, with a significant allocation of
R&D funding. The DOST has appointed a Technical Panel for Nanotechnology which is tasked
to oversee government-funded R&D funding in this area. Prospects are bright for the
commercial success of the air cleaning paint KNOxOUT. The initial areas of future development
will likely be in the applications of nanoparticles and nanocomposites, which can improve the
properties and extend the utility of locally available natural resources.

NOTE: Please see the attachment (GEED10083_ATTACHED

DOCUMENT1_MODULE3_LESSON4) for more information about the topic.
 ASSESSMENT

Name: Date:

Course and Year: Module No. 3

Lesson No. 4

Direction: Explain each questions and provide concise answers with some relevant
examples for clarification, if necessary.
1. What are nanomaterials and how are they made?
2. What are the factors that need to be considered before manufacturing
materials through nanotechnology?
3. What are the contributions of nanotechnology for the improvement and
sustainability of our environment?