WHAT IS NANO

TECHNOLOGY
THE NANO WORLD
OBJECTIVES

 Students will gain an understanding of Nano

Technology, exploring its definition, applications,
and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.
They will also critically evaluate the advantages
and disadvantages of Nano Technology in various
societal contexts.
SIGNIFICANCE OF TECHNOLOGY
WHAT IS NANO TECHNOLOGY?
NANOMEDICINE
 Drug Delivery Systems: Nano-sized particles are used to
encapsulate drugs, allowing for targeted delivery to specific
cells or tissues.
 Diagnostic Imaging: Nanotechnology enhances medical
imaging techniques, providing higher resolution and
sensitivity for early disease detection.
 Therapeutics: Nanomaterials are employed in developing
innovative cancer treatments and therapies
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Electronics:
Nanoelectronics: The development of nanoscale transistors and
components has led to more efficient and powerful electronic
devices.
Quantum Dots: Nanoscale semiconductor particles known as
quantum dots are utilized in displays, solar cells, and LED
technologies.
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Environmental Applications:
Water Purification: Nanostructured filters and
membranes are used for efficient water purification.
Air Filtration: Nanomaterials enhance the performance
of air filters, removing pollutants and particulate matter.
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Textiles:
Smart Fabrics: Nanotechnology is employed to
develop textiles with properties like stain resistance,
moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial features.
Nano-Coatings: Fabrics can be coated with
nanomaterials for enhanced durability and protection
against environmental factors.
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Consumer Goods:
Cosmetics: Nano Technology is used in the
development of skincare products with improved
delivery of active ingredients.
Electronics and Wearables: Nanomaterials contribute
to the miniaturization and performance improvement of
electronic devices.
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Agriculture:
Precision Agriculture: Nanosensors and nanomaterials
are applied to enhance the precision and efficiency of
agricultural practices.
Crop Protection: Nano-based formulations improve
the delivery of pesticides and fertilizers.
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Space Exploration:
Lightweight Materials: Nanotechnology contributes to
the development of lightweight and durable materials
for spacecraft and equipment.
Sensors: Nano-sized sensors are utilized for monitoring
and data collection in space missions.
IMPACTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
Biotechnology:
Biosensors: Nanostructured materials are employed in
the development of highly sensitive biosensors for
detecting biomolecules.
Nanomedicine: Nano Technology plays a crucial role
in advancing personalized medicine and targeted drug
delivery.
F. Ass1: Nano Technologies

 BASED FROM THE FOLLOWING CASE

STUDIES, HIGHLIGHTS THE POSITIVE
EFFECTS OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES.
F. Ass1: Nano Technologies
1. Targeted Drug Delivery in Cancer Treatment:
Problem: Conventional cancer treatments often result in side
effects due to the indiscriminate targeting of both healthy and
cancerous cells.
Nano Technology Solution: Nano-sized drug carriers, such as
liposomes and nanoparticles, can be engineered to deliver
chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells, minimizing damage
to healthy tissues.
F. Ass1: Nano Technologies
2. Water Purification using Nanomaterials:
Problem: Access to clean water is a global challenge, with many
regions facing water contamination issues.
Nano Technology Solution: Nanomaterials like graphene oxide
and carbon nanotubes are used in advanced water purification
systems. These materials can adsorb and filter contaminants at
the nanoscale.
F. Ass1: Nano Technologies
3. Nano-Enhanced Solar Cells for Renewable Energy:
Problem: Increasing demand for clean energy sources requires more
efficient and cost-effective solar power technologies.
Nano Technology Solution: Integration of nanostructured materials, such
as perovskite nanocrystals, in solar cells enhances light absorption and
electron transport, leading to more efficient energy conversion.
F. Ass1: Nano Technologies
4. Nanosensors for Early Disease Detection:
Problem: Early detection of diseases is crucial for effective treatment, but
traditional diagnostic methods may lack sensitivity.
Nano Technology Solution: Nanosensors, often made from nanomaterials
like gold nanoparticles or carbon nanotubes, can detect biomarkers
associated with diseases at the molecular level.
F. Ass1: Nano Technologies
5. Lightweight and Strong Nanocomposites in Aerospace:
Problem: Traditional materials used in aerospace are heavy, impacting fuel
efficiency and overall performance.
Nano Technology Solution: Incorporation of nanomaterials, such as carbon
nanotubes or graphene, into composite materials results in lightweight and
exceptionally strong materials.
DISADVANTAGES OF NANO TECHNOLOGIES
 F. GW.5 : TRIAD DISCUSSION ON ETHICAL DELIMMAS ON NANO TECHNOLOGY

 ANSWER THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION POINTS TO HIGHTLIGHT ETHICAL

CONSDERATION OF THE GIVEN SCENARIOS.

students should emphasize:

 A clear description of the ethical dilemma presented in the scenario.
 Identification of key stakeholders and their interests or concerns.
 An analysis of potential consequences and risks associated with the ethical dilemma.
 Exploration of existing ethical guidelines, regulations, or best practices relevant to the
scenario.
 Recommendations for addressing the ethical dilemma and promoting responsible use of
nanotechnology in each context.
1. Informed Consent in Nanoparticle-Based Cancer Therapy:
Scenario: Researchers are developing a cutting-edge cancer treatment using nanoparticles for targeted
drug delivery. Patients are enrolled in clinical trials, but there are concerns about the adequacy of informed
consent regarding the potential long-term effects and unknown risks associated with nanomaterials.
Discussion Points:
How do researchers ensure that patients fully understand the risks and benefits of nanoparticle-based
therapies when the technology is still evolving?
What measures can be implemented to enhance transparency in communication between researchers and
participants regarding potential long-term effects?
Should there be specific guidelines or regulations addressing informed consent in the context of
nanomedicine?
2. Environmental Impact of Nanoparticles in Consumer Products:
Scenario: Nanoparticles are widely used in consumer products such as sunscreen, cosmetics, and clothing
for their unique properties. However, there are concerns about the environmental impact of these
nanoparticles, particularly their potential to accumulate in ecosystems and affect wildlife.
Discussion Points:
How can manufacturers balance the benefits of nanoparticle use in consumer products with the potential
environmental risks?
Should there be standardized testing and labeling for products containing nanoparticles to inform
consumers and guide environmentally conscious choices?
What role can regulatory bodies play in ensuring the responsible use of nanomaterials in consumer goods?
3. Nano-Surveillance in Smart Cities:
Scenario: Smart city initiatives incorporate nanoscale sensors for various purposes,
including traffic management, air quality monitoring, and public safety. However, the
widespread deployment of such sensors raises concerns about privacy invasion and mass
surveillance.
Discussion Points:
How can cities balance the benefits of smart technologies with the protection of
individual privacy rights?
Should there be clear guidelines on the types of data collected, who has access to it, and
how long it is retained?
What role can citizens play in shaping policies around the use of nanoscale surveillance
technologies in public spaces?
4. Workplace Exposure to Nanomaterials:
Scenario: Nanomaterials are used in manufacturing processes, and workers may be
exposed to them during production. There are concerns about potential health risks
associated with occupational exposure to nanoparticles, and questions arise about
employer responsibility and worker awareness.
Discussion Points:
How can employers ensure the safety of workers in environments where nanomaterials
are used, considering the evolving understanding of their health effects?
Should there be mandatory training and awareness programs for employees working with
nanomaterials?
What legal and ethical obligations do employers have in terms of providing protective
measures and monitoring workplace exposure?
5. Access to Nanotechnology Advancements:
Scenario: Breakthroughs in nanotechnology lead to the development of life-saving
medical treatments, but there are concerns about equitable access. The high costs of these
advanced treatments may create disparities in healthcare access, raising questions about
social justice.
Discussion Points:
How can society ensure that the benefits of nanotechnology are accessible to all,
regardless of socio-economic status?
Should there be regulations in place to control the pricing of nanotechnology-based
medical treatments?
What role can governments, international organizations, and pharmaceutical companies
play in addressing issues of accessibility and affordability?