nanoparticle

noun

nano·​par·​ti·​cle ˈna-nə-ˌpär-ti-kəl 

ˈna-nō-

: a microscopic particle whose size is measured in nanometers

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Nanoparticles of a material usually have very different qualities from those that the material has at its ordinary scale, which is one reason why there's such excitement about the possibilities for how they might be used in future technologies. Many uses have already been developed. Aluminum nanoparticles added to rocket fuel can make the fuel burn twice as fast and release much more energy. Silicon nanoparticles are increasing the energy efficiency of solar cells by allowing the energy from ultraviolet light to be captured for the first time. Other nanoparticles are now helping prevent rust in metals, produce stronger batteries, enhance the diagnosis of cancer, and improve the filtering of water, and the number of other applications is growing fast.

Examples of nanoparticle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The problem is that there’s essentially infinite possibilities for how the nanoparticle can interact with a continuous spectrum of light. —Michael Irving, New Atlas, 24 Nov. 2024

The suit surrounds lipid nanoparticles used for transporting the mRNA that GSK claims infringe on its patents. —Maya Goldman, Axios, 16 Oct. 2024

Food Additives Food additives such as aluminum, titanium dioxide (TiO2), and microparticles/nanoparticles. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024

However, a new study may have the answer: oral nanoparticles that work directly on the small intestine to reduce the production of an enzyme responsible for fat absorption. —New Atlas, 14 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

nanoparticle

noun

nano·​par·​ti·​cle -ˌpärt-i-kəl 

: a microscopic particle whose size is measured in nanometers

drugs bound to biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles