Why this matters now
Nanotech is tested for the nanoscale concept, nanomaterials (graphene, carbon nanotubes), applications and India’s Nano Mission — a recurring prelims S&T topic.
What is nanotechnology?
At the nanoscale (a nanometre is one-billionth of a metre), materials display different physical, chemical and biological properties (higher surface area, quantum effects). Key nanomaterials include carbon nanotubes, graphene, fullerenes and quantum dots.
Applications
- Medicine — targeted drug delivery, nano-diagnostics, cancer therapy;
- Electronics — smaller, faster chips and sensors;
- Energy — better batteries, solar cells, fuel cells;
- Environment — water purification, pollution remediation;
- Materials — stronger, lighter, self-cleaning coatings; agriculture (nano-fertilisers).
India’s Nano Mission and risks
India’s Nano Mission (under the Department of Science & Technology) funds research, infrastructure and human resources; India is among the top nations in nano-science publications. Concerns include nanotoxicity, environmental and health risks, and the need for safety standards and regulation.
UPSC angle
Know the nanoscale (1–100 nm) and why properties change, key nanomaterials (graphene, CNTs, quantum dots), applications, India’s Nano Mission (DST), and nanotoxicity concerns.
Frequently asked questions
What is nanotechnology?
The manipulation of matter at the nanoscale (1–100 nm), where materials exhibit unique properties.
What is graphene?
A single layer of carbon atoms — an extremely strong, light and conductive nanomaterial with wide applications.
What are nanotechnology’s applications?
Targeted drug delivery, advanced electronics, better batteries and solar cells, water purification and stronger materials.
What is India’s Nano Mission?
A Department of Science & Technology programme funding nano-science research, infrastructure and human resources.