Nanomaterials: Reality Versus Hype
Abstract
For most people, the term "structural nanomaterial" would appear to be a contradiction. In fact, bulk materials and coatings can be fabricated with microstructures which incorporate nanoscale features, often in combination with features on other scales, and which exhibit remarkable properties. While many claims made about these materials are ill founded (i.e. hype), extraordinary progress has been made on nanostructured ceramics and metals. The hype arises from a failure to take into account all of the properties required for the intended application (for example, increasing strength while destroying ductility). Nevertheless, it is possible to develop nanomaterials with revolutionary (as opposed to evolutionary) properties which are not deficient in some other characteristic. To do this, it is necessary to think of "nano" not as a goal, but as a degree of freedom which permits the design of novel microstructures which result in unprecedented properties. Cleverness and hard work are still required.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA469469
Entities
People
- Lawrence T. Kabacoff
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research