From the 18th through 20th centuries, science was developed upon the hypothesis that elements and their composition determined the physical and chemical properties of materials. However, in the last decade of the 20th century, scientists proved this approach is incomplete. Size and shape –particularly extremely small sizes – also determines material properties.
Svetlana Kilina, assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry at NDSU, will discuss the impact of this development at the November Science Café titled “Nanomaterials: History, Technological Potentials and Concerns.”
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m. in Stoker’s Basement, Hotel Donaldson in Fargo. It’s free and open to the public.
Kilina will provide an overview of the history and human factors in nanotechnology development, its societal benefits and potential effects on human health and the environment.
Nanomaterials are so small that billions of them could fit on the head of a pin. They appear in a wide variety and their range of properties and possible applications appear to be enormous, from extraordinarily tiny electronic devices including miniature batteries and solar cells, to biomedical uses and as packaging films, superabsorbants, armor components and automobile parts.
“We will focus on the most intriguing discoveries and exciting problems that nonscientists attempt to solve nowadays,” Kilina said. “Overall, the small size makes the nanomaterials both promising and challenging.”
Attendees must be 21 or older or accompanied by a parent or guardian. For more information, contact Diane Goede at diane.goede@ndsu.edu or 701-231-7412.
NDSU is recognized as one of the nation’s top 108 public and private universities by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education.
