Nanotech breakthrough could create cheaper solar power and medical devices

New research could pave the way for mass production of new forms of nanotech devices for use in the renewables and medical sectors. In a new paper published today (Thursday March 10) in the journal Nature , researchers from the Universities of Glasgow, Ohio and Massachusetts discuss how they have been able for the first time to limit chemical reactions to specific areas of nanostructures they create. The team utilises the ability of metallic nanostructures to generate heat from laser pulse illumination which is then focussed in the surrounding water to generate localised hot and cold regions. The water temperature mediates a chemical reaction that enables selective positioning of molecules on the nanostructure. The team have used this strategy to enhance the capabilities of a nanosensor for detecting proteins. The novel spatially selective method provides efficient high-throughput control of chemistry on the nanoscale over macroscopic areas. Dr Malcolm Kadodwala, of the University of Glasgow's School of Chemistry, led the research team.