Nano means small. Thus, nanotechnology means miniature technology. This has huge implications for the Internet of Things (IoT). Engineers are currently experimenting with innovations such as nanoscale batteries and nanomaterial-based display screens for IoT devices. But it also raises an interesting question: what is the purpose of nanoscale internet-connected objects?
Nanotechnology involves the discovery, design, and development of nanoscale inventions. It does this by manipulating materials on a scale close to that of an atom. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. It is invisible to the naked eye. This development is futuristic. Nanotechnology has been around for decades and is expected to grow. In 2023, the market was worth $79.14 billion. By 2032, its value is expected to reach $332.73 billion.
Integrating nanotechnology into IoT means placing nanostructures on objects connected to the Internet. Engineers are using nanoparticles to create nanomaterials or nanofluids. This development is replacing traditional components and at the same time improving device performance. Nanoscale batteries are a great example to showcase here: they have higher energy density and charge faster. Nanomaterials for displays are LED and QLED: they consume less power and improve screen quality. Nanotechnology also allows for smaller processors, meaning more transistors can fit onto a smaller chip.
The main reasons for integrating nanotechnology into IoT are miniaturization and energy efficiency. Miniaturization saves space and also increases computing performance and energy efficiency, which are very important for gadgets. Mobile phones, laptops, and smartwatches become more compact. Incorporating nanomaterials into batteries improves their capacity, stability, charging speed, and conductivity.
Sustainability is another benefit. Smaller, more energy-efficient IoT devices can reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing facilities and data centers. Longer battery life also reduces e-waste, the fastest growing form of solid waste. Longer IoT device lifespans will have a positive impact on sustainability.