Commercialization of Nanotechnologies–A CaseStudy Approach

This book covers diverse areas in which nanoscience and nanotechnology have led to significant technological developments and practical applications, with a special focus on new types of nanomaterials and their potential for application in a new generation of nano and micro-devices. Various nanomaterials are reviewed with a focus on many areas of practical application and commercial use. Nanomaterials production technologies are presented as one of the challenges today. Sectors in which nanotechnology has already contributed significantly, are presented, along with specific nanotechnology solutions: energy-related sectors, national pharma/microelectromechanical systems scheme, micropower generators, lower electronics, and healthcare. The basic properties and applications of thermoelectric, ferroelectric and ferroelectric nanomaterials have been reviewed. Examples of several developed thin-film thermoelectric generators are shown. A review of current solutions and development challenges regarding sustainable energy production, photovoltaics, solar cells, hydrogen economy, and improved categories of batteries is presented as contributions to green products and the circular economy. Novel, highly promising areas of nanotechnology are on display, such as voltage-driven nanospintronics. Recent advances in friction characterization at the nanoscale have been described. Several nanomaterials that have proven usefulness for biomedicine have been reviewed. The use of nanomaterials in ophthalmology and the cosmetic industry, the potential for using silver nanoparticles and iron-based nanomaterials in biomedicine, as well as the recognized challenges and potential threats of the uncontrolled use of nanomaterials are reviewed. This work is the result of the joint efforts of various companies and academic and research institutions involved in the WIMB Tempus project, 543898-TEMPUS-1-2013-1-ES-TEMPUS-JPHES, “Developing sustainable interrelationships between education, research and innovation at WBC universities in nanotechnologies and advanced materials Where innovation means business”, co-financed by the European Union's Tempus programme.