Historical Background, Development and Preparation of Nanomaterials

Nanotechnology has developed as a field of science with broad applications in different fields. The reduction of particle size and tuning the particle morphology of materials from micro- to nanosize leads to the unique properties and helps in versatile applications. The reason for the nanomaterials (NMs) to exhibit enhanced properties is due to the large surface-to-volume ratio and quantum confinement effect. It is therefore imperative to understand the history, background, physico-chemical nature before its usage. In this chapter, the overall overview of history and development of nanoparticles are discussed in detail. People have learned the way to produce bread, fabric, wine and cheese since ancient times when the process of fermentation was crucial. Secrets of ancient nano-production in many instances simply passed from generation to generation, without going into the reasons why the materials and products obtained from them acquired their specific properties. The development and preparation of nanomaterials some pre-conditions required for the specific preparation of nano-products. Various methods are used for the preparation of nanomaterials like chemical vapor deposition, hydrothermal method, hydrolysis, chemical engineers (heterogeneous catalysis) and biological route, etc.