Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

Did you know electrons spin? They do, and UF researchers are using the energy from that spin to power new generations of transistors, lasers, sensors and memory devices.

UF has funding from the Department of Defense to develop nano-scale biosensors and actuators that can be used in medicine to study how cells work in diseases. Another application would be a "lab-on-a-chip" that could be used to test for medical conditions or biohazards.

UF materials scientists have developed hollow nanoparticles that contain drugs for controlled delivery. This will be very beneficial in treatments for cancer and other chronic illnesses.

Our chemical and materials engineers designed "nanobullets" made of calcium carbonate (similar to natural shells) that bind to harmful drugs circulating in the blood and reduce their concentration in the bloodstream.

Adding nanoparticles to asphalt and concrete to make them stronger and more durable is a new project for UF civil engineers.