Nanotechnology refers to the use of materials on an atomic, molecular, and supramolecular scale for industrial purposes.
While the concept of nanotechnology has been around since the 1950s, it wasn’t until the 2000s that the field gained more scientific and commercial attention.
This tech has already brought major innovations in various industries but we’re just starting to see its effect on the automotive industry. But what is it that brings nanotechnology and cars together? Read on to find out.
The Significance of Nanotechnology in the Automotive Industry
Every day we get to see a new car model being released. It’s up to automotive manufacturers to come up with all sorts of advancements and create better car models. New cars are supposed to come with more power but also consume less fuel.
Similarly, the manufacturers have the task of designing vehicles that are both rigid and easy to handle. Last but not least, the exterior parts should be aesthetically pleasing and as durable as possible.
Designing a vehicle like this was practically impossible until nanotechnology was introduced into the sector.
Nanomaterials have everything it takes to provide a solution to each of these challenges. This is because these materials are lighter and stronger than materials usually used in the industry.
Offers Better Engine Durability
Labeled as one of the most progressive technologies, it’s safe to assume nanotechnology comes with numerous benefits. One of these benefits has something to do with the key part of every vehicle – the engine.
If you take a glance at old engines, you’ll see that they’re bigger and heavier than new ones. Although smaller and lighter engines are a huge upgrade, there are still some downsides to it. Heat and friction are the biggest issues as new engines have to operate at soaring temperatures.
With the use of nanotechnology, we might finally get to see a new form of engine that is more durable without weight than the current ones. These engines will be made from nano aluminum and they’ll be exactly what modern car owners want.
Enhances Battery Efficiency
Another vital car part is the battery. It’s impossible to start a car without a battery and this thing might also benefit from nanotechnology. The tech has the potential to enhance the efficiency of the battery using nanoparticles.
If this works out, we’ll get a chance to see an entirely new generation of batteries hit the market. These batteries wouldn’t only be more durable, but they’d also be greener and more durable. The use of nanotechnology might even affect the price of the product and make car batteries less expensive.
Creates More Durable Exteriors
Perhaps the best use of nanotechnology in the industry, for now, is for enhancing the aesthetic appeal and durability of the car exterior. Car owners can now get nano-coating products for their vehicles to create an extra layer of protection on the exterior’s surface.
This new layer bonds with the surface and does an amazing job of keeping dirt, debris, and water away.
The best part of it is that every car owner can add this extra layer to their vehicle. These products come at reasonable prices and can be applied in no time.
As long as you have access to the web and can look up some tips and tricks, you’re good to go. This is a great example of how nanotechnology creates more durable exteriors and works as a money saver.
Used for Fuel Cells
It’s no secret that the entire world is trying to come up with ways to use less fossil fuels. Electric and hydrogen vehicles are the future of the automotive industry and these cars are constantly making more noise.
For hydrogen vehicles to work, they need to store hydrogen in a semi-solid state. This can be achieved with the use of nanotechnology and carbon nanomaterials.
With that said, it’s obvious that nanotechnology plays a significant role in ditching fossil fuels and designing less expensive vehicles. There may be an array of fuel alternatives at the moment but none of them can handle the increasingly high consumer demand.
Wrapping Up
Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize any industry. Its use in the automotive industry is constantly growing and who knows what we can expect from it in the future.
At the moment, it seems like this tech has already brought and will bring even more change to the sector. With its use in the industry increasing, we might get a chance to see cheaper, greener, and more reliable cars hit the market.
