The internet of nano-things is taking the internet of things to the next level – or, more precisely, to a smaller level.
StatNano defines Internet of Nano Things (IoNT) as an interrelated system of very small devices to transfer data over a network.
So, how small is IoNT? We’re talking about 0.1 to 100 nanometers.
Why IoNT?
A simple way to understand this is to look at how technology has shrunk in size over the last few years.
Phones used to be big and bulky, but now, they are sleek, and this trend is expected to continue.
The same pattern can be seen in virtually every other type of technology.
This essentially denotes a process of becoming more efficient in how we design and use technology; that is, we can do more with less.
IoNT essentially represents IoT’s journey toward doing more with less.
The internet of nano things allows you to connect various nanodevices via a high-speed network. When combined with other allied technologies such as cloud computing, big data, and machine learning, this can open up a plethora of new possibilities.
It’s similar to how mobile phones do everything fixed line phones do, but with more functionality, new features, and convenience. IoNT can supercharge everything that IoT currently does.
5 Everyday Products that Use Nanotechnology
- Sunscreen
Nanoparticles — Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, has been added to sunscreens to increase their effectiveness.
These are two types of nanoparticles that are commonly used in sunscreen. Because these tiny particles are not only highly effective at blocking UV radiation, but they also feel lighter on the skin, modern sunscreens are nowhere near as thick and gloopy as the sunscreens we were slathered in as children.
- Clothing
When used in textiles, silica nanoparticles can aid in the creation of fabrics that repel water and other liquids.
Silica is added to fabrics by incorporating it into the weave or by spraying it onto the fabric’s surface to create a waterproof or stainproof coating.
Have you seen a packet labeled “Silica Gel, DO NOT EAT, THROW AWAY”?
These are called Silica Gels. Silica Gels are put in clothing products or even shoes because they help protect items from moisture or light water damage.
These packets absorb moisture, dehydrating and dehumidifying the environment. This prevents your clothing items, purse, or shoes from cracking, discoloring, or flaking before it is delivered to you.
3. Computers
Many of the electronics we use every day would not exist without nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology in computers addresses the need for computer processes to run faster and at lower temperatures than traditional, transistor-based computer components.
Nanomaterials, tiny molecule-sized machines that process information similarly to the intricate and complex cells in a living organism, are used in computer nanotechnology. Nanomaterials, like cells, exist on a microscopic scale, with one nanometer equaling one billionth of a meter, or 1/50,000 the thickness of a human hair.
Intel still has 75% of the PC processor market and is the world’s largest chipmaker.
- Furniture
Nanotechnologies play an important role in the furniture industry.
Nanotechnological furniture is equipped with antibacterial coatings that activate on contact, as well as self-healing and repairing coatings, anti-mold, water-repellent, and anti-fingerprint coatings, and anti-scratch, abrasion, rubbing, dry heat, impact, acid-based solvents, and household reagents resistance.
This technology helps improve a wide range of products, including kitchens, bathrooms, worktops, shutters, doors, and walls, as well as furniture and fittings such as tables, bookcases, and chairs.
- Surface Protection Materials
Nanomaterials are used to create ultrathin protective layers that fortify the surfaces to which they are applied.
Nano repel is a product that enhances surface flexibility and elasticity while preventing stress damage by using a fine coating of pure quartz glass that is resistant to temperature and corrosive materials.
Similar products may also have antiadhesive properties, making it easier to remove dirt, stains, and oily substances from surfaces.
Applications of the Internet of Nano-Things
The combination of nanotechnology and IoT will transform the current internet of things applications, making them more functional, robust, and compact.
As industries look to implement IoNT, its applications can show promising potential and improve productivity and efficiency.
Healthcare Sector
By utilizing IoNT, both medical professionals and patients will have real-time access to critical healthcare data. The internet of nano-things can be used to create a body sensor network comprised of in-body nanosensors capable of monitoring patients’ health and biological activity.
Body sensor networks (BSN) are the most common application for IoNT devices today.
A body sensor network is a system that employs a collection of sensors implanted within the human body to gain pertinent insights and diagnostically useful information that would otherwise be beyond the scope of traditional diagnostic techniques.
These nano-sized biosensors can provide us with previously unattainable access to the inner workings of the human body.
Smart Homes
IoNT can help smart homes become smarter. Smart homes are already using IoT to control devices via smartphones, Amazon Echo, and other devices. As nano sensors detect and maintain specific temperatures in a room, identify harmful air and gases, and monitor everything, IoNT will further extend this exciting smart home solution.
Nano-sensors, for example, can assist us in detecting gas leaks and alerting homeowners well before any serious damage occurs to their property. Nano sensors could also be used for climate control or security.
Food and Agriculture
IoNT has had a significant impact on food processing and agriculture.
It can aid in precision farming. Nanosensors can collect data about soil quality, moisture levels, and crop health in real-time. Farmers can use IoNT to collect highly granular data that will help them optimize their operations and, as a result, increase their yields.
The application of this technology in the field of nutrition will result in the design and development of novel foods with improved solubility, required temperature, and thermal stability.
Nanosensors can be used to assess the condition, health, and quality of food produced. For example, a nanosensor placed in a soda bottle can detect the coherence of the liquid and identify any debris in the drink.
Similarly, food manufacturers can use IoNT to monitor the quality of a wide range of food products. Food companies can learn how long their foods can be stored using data collected by nanosensors.
Conclusion
Nanotechnology is all about the ultra-small, but it has the potential to change our lives dramatically.
We already use and enjoy many nanotechnology-enhanced products, but it is the potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine and agriculture or to aid in the resolution of some of the world’s most difficult environmental problems that makes the future of nanotechnology the most exciting.
The future is nanotechnology. To be ahead of the curve and explore the endless possibilities, reach out to Aerion Technologies and CRINNAC for a free consultation TODAY. Our partnership provides you with a one-stop solution from ideation to the manufacturing of your IoT-based solution.
