Eric Musgrave Week 8 Blog NanoTech + Art
This week's lectures discussed the use of nanotechnology and its modern day application in various forms of art. Specifically, nanotechnology was a term coined by Norio Taniguchi to refer to the manipulation of atoms and molecules or other structures with at least one dimension in the range of 1-100 nanometers (Gimzewski, Lecture 1). One way in which nanotechnology has been utilized is in the discovery of the different allotropes of carbon. The different allotropes of carbon such as diamond and graphite are connected in such a way, that their differing patterns responsible for creating each of them are unique and responsible for their properties (ie. conductor, shiny, dull, etc.). It is this unique relationship that makes nanotechnology so important in the world of art since these two allotropes of carbon differ geometrically, such as the hexagonal sheets created by graphite (Gimzewski, Lecture 2), but are nonetheless both made of pure carbon atoms.
Dr. Gimzewski goes on to explain some of the effects of nanosizing particles in everyday objects and the effects that this can have on the resulting product. Specifically, he mentions the use of silver nanoparticles in materials such as sportswear (Gimzewski, Lecture 3) and its antimicrobial effect that makes it useful in products such as socks. I was fascinated by this phenomenon because oftentimes silver is thought of for its use in currency or jewelry. Hence, it is fascinating to know that by changing the size of silver particles, they can ultimately be repurposed for nontraditional uses. Similarly, nanoparticles are also useful in the medical field to treat conditions in ways that are less toxic and harmful to the human body. I found it interesting that abraxane is a "nanodrug" (Gimzewski, Lecture 4) used to treat cancer that is less toxic than taxol due to it being soluble with albumin. By providing sick patients with alternative forms of treatment that is less harmful to the body, this can speed up the recovery process and reduce side effects.
Dr. Gimzewski also mentions the potential risks of nanotechnology, specifically in the production of food. Nanotechnology can be used to alter the taste of food, personalize food and act as surveillance for potential bacteria (Gimzewski, Lecture 6).. However, the risks of nanoparticles in the form of additives and pesticides still pose a potential threat to health. Ultimately, however, there is a mountain of evidence that suggests the use of nanotechnology will continue to lead to advances in many aspects of human life.
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