There has been much discussion recently of nanotechnology and how it may revolutionize the chemical industry and provide advanced products as diverse as automotive and aerospace components, textiles, and drug delivery systems. Nanotechnology has attracted significant interest from start-up companies, large chemical companies, and the investment community. Although currently a relatively small market, there is great optimism for a future market of many billions of dollars.
The materials industry, in general, is expected to reap significant technological and financial benefits from the nanostructured approach. The value creating potential nanomaterials has been equated to when biomaterials were first developed or even to the discovery of polymers.
This article will review the development of nanomaterials and its potential especially in the areas of adhesives, sealants, and coatings. Challenges and hurdles to full-scale market implementation will also be discussed.
The prefix, "nano" comes from a Greek work meaning dwarf or extremely small.