A nano-meter is one billionth of a meter. Nano is derived from the Greek word ‘Nanos’ meaning Dwarf. Nano scale measures between 1nm to 1000 nm.

The most exciting properties of a nano particle is that when we exploit particles properties in a nano scale it is way different for example bulk gold is a shiny yellow metal on the other hand nano particle of a gold appears to be red in color, also bulk gold do not exhibit catalytic properties but the gold nano particles did.  

But, Nanotechnology is not new, nano materials are among us since centuries. Some of them are listed here

The Lycurgus cup: Romans made a cup using dichoric glass in 4th century. It appears to be re when light comes from the front and green when light comes from the back of it.

Bahamas : Considered as ancient nano-medicine.

Magnetotactic bacteria : This type of bacteria produces magnetic nano particles.

Gecko lizard: Its feet are covered with the nano sized hairs, allowing the lizard to stuck firmly to the surfaces. Research shows that it can carry 130 kg weight, the inter molecular forces are responsible for the strong interaction. Scientists are in process of making gecko tapes and have already made gecko shoes for the mountain climbers.

Moth Eyes: Eyes of moths have nano structures in it, which give them anti glare properties, which in saving them from predators. Learning from the same, researchers from the same have build anti glare, self cleaning window glass

Wings of cicada: Wings of a small  butterfly cicada have nano sized pillars, having bactericidal properties. These pillars are densely packed and arranged, when  bacteria comes in contact, these pillars tears the bacteria apart.

Butterfly wing sensors: Researchers have found out that the nano structures on the surface of Morpho butterflies, have acute sensing abilities. This research have allowed the scientists to build sensors that can detect heat and also around 1000 different chemicals.

Lotus Leaf Effect: Leaves of lotus have nano coating over its surface which makes it difficult to get wet. Water beads up into the little droplets to nano sized ridges and wax coated hairs. Engineers are making clothes by learning from this phenomenon that would not get stained.

Namib beetle: This beetle lives in desert, it collect dew drops with the help of nanobots in back. Learning from this beautiful phenomenon scientists have tried to make a dew bank bottle.

  Hope this sounds interesting to you.

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