Design and Technology – Materials and components | e-Consult

Working Properties: Nanomaterials, by definition, have at least one dimension between 1 and 100 nanometres. This size allows them to exhibit unique properties not seen in bulk materials. Oleophobic coatings are designed to repel oils and greases. This is achieved by creating a surface with a low surface energy, preventing oils from spreading and adhering. Hydrophobic materials repel water due to their low surface energy and typically a high contact angle with water. This is often achieved through the incorporation of hydrophobic nanoparticles (e.g., silicon dioxide, fluoropolymers) on a surface. The nanoparticles create a textured surface that minimizes water adhesion. Both types of coatings often rely on a combination of organic and inorganic components to achieve the desired properties.

Common Uses:

• Oleophobic Coatings: Smartphones, tablets, lenses (scratch and smudge resistance), textiles (stain resistance), automotive surfaces.
• Hydrophobic Materials: Waterproof clothing, outdoor gear, building materials (self-cleaning windows, roofs), medical devices (catheters), textiles (waterproof jackets).

Environmental Impact: The environmental impact of nanomaterials is an area of ongoing research. Concerns include:

• Toxicity: Some nanomaterials may be toxic to living organisms, potentially accumulating in the environment and entering the food chain. The long-term effects are not fully understood.
• Persistence: Nanomaterials can be persistent in the environment, resisting biodegradation.
• Manufacturing Processes: The production of nanomaterials can involve energy-intensive processes and the use of hazardous chemicals.
• Disposal: Proper disposal methods are crucial to prevent environmental contamination. Incineration may release nanoparticles into the atmosphere. Landfilling poses a risk of leaching into soil and water.

Challenges:

• Scalability: Producing nanomaterials on a large scale at a reasonable cost remains a challenge.
• Control over Properties: Precisely controlling the size, shape, and composition of nanoparticles is difficult.
• Regulation: The lack of comprehensive regulations surrounding the production, use, and disposal of nanomaterials creates uncertainty.