You hear the term “nanotechnology,” and what do you think of? Science fiction, maybe robots, something along those lines? In reality, nanotechnology is making life simpler for all of us. At its heart, nanotechnology is the science of dealing with matter on an atomic and molecular scale. The hope is that scientists will use nanotechnology to create new materials and products that boast a wide range of purposes.

The practical side of nanotechnology

To present you with an example of how nanotechnology can effect your lifestyle here is an article that Science Daily ran a few weeks ago. The article states that scientists are developing a way to use nanotechnology to reduce the level of friction in car engines and machines. This technology could make machines operate more effectively; prolonging their lives. Based on the article, tiny polymer particles were created and dispersed in oils used in automobile engines. These were then tested in conditions comparable to car engines and found to reduce friction significantly.

More efficient motors

There are friction-reducing additives used by many industries currently, however when these tiny polymer particles were released at a low concentration they were able to decrease friction by 55 percent more than common additives currently can. As the field of nanotechnology keeps growing we can expect more breakthroughs like this.

The emerging world of nanotechnology

If you believe, then, that nanotechnology is only good for Hollywood special effects blockbusters; simply take a close look at your car’s engine. Eventually, nanotechnology could leave you with an engine that utilizes less gas. That, of course, can leave you with a fatter wallet, and you’ll be able to thank nanotechnology for this.