What do nanomaterials consist of?

Nanomaterials consist of particles measuring less than 100 nanometers. At this scale, materials exhibit unique physical and chemical properties that differ significantly from their bulk counterparts. These properties can include increased strength, lighter weight, enhanced chemical reactivity, and improved electrical conductivity.

The nanoscale (typically defined as 1 to 100 nanometers) is where quantum effects can become apparent, leading to the creation of materials that can have innovative applications in various fields, including medicine, electronics, and environmental science. Therefore, the characteristic that clearly defines nanomaterials is their size, specifically being less than 100 nanometers, which is essential for their special properties and functions.

The focus on size helps in classifying materials into nanomaterials versus other types of materials, such as bulk materials, which typically consist of larger particles. Understanding this distinction is crucial in fields that manipulate materials at the nanoscale for technological advancements.