An Introduction to Nanomaterials

Nanotechnology can be defined as the systematic study of materials that have properties critically dependant on length scales on the order of nanometers. Such novel and improved properties make nanoscale materials promising candidates for a wide range of applications that are expected to improve our lifestyles. Here, I review different aspects of nanotechnology. This paper describes first, definitions and classifications of nanomaterials reported in published research works. Then, I disscuss the most enhanced properties of manufactured nanomaterials. This will be followed by a description of the synthesis methods being used to obtain nanostructured materials. Nanotechnology applications in the energy, environment, nanomedicine, sensors, nanoelectronics, textile, food and agriculture fields are discussed in the last section.