Britannica Sources used in this answer

How can nanotechnology create lighter and stronger materials?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

The powers of 10 — nanotechnology Examples from biological and mechanical realms illustrate various “orders of magnitude” (powers of 10), from 10⁻² meter down to 10⁻⁷ meter.

Nanotechnology enables the creation of lighter and stronger materials by manipulating matter at the atomic or molecular scale to engineer unique physical properties. By controlling the nanostructure of materials, scientists can develop advanced composites that surpass the performance of conventional substances.12

Key methods and examples include:

Nanocomposites: By combining hard, brittle inorganic materials with soft, tough organic materials—similar to the structure of an abalone seashell—researchers create materials that are both durable and lightweight. Examples include polymer-clay nanocomposites, which are easier to recycle and stronger than traditional reinforced plastics.2
Carbon Nanotubes: These structures, consisting of sheets of carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal rings, exhibit exceptional mechanical properties. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes possess a Young’s modulus significantly higher than that of standard carbon fibres and can absorb loads through reversible elastic deformations.3
Hierarchical Assembly: The ability to assemble atoms and molecules into complex systems allows for the tailoring of materials with unprecedented strength-to-weight ratios.12

These advancements are particularly vital for the transportation industry, where reducing the weight of vehicles and aircraft directly improves fuel efficiency and performance.12