the big idea
nanoparticles
the big idea
nanoparticles
01
![blob1 Paper Illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob1.png)
Nano = one-billionth
Nanometer = one-billionth of a meter
Sheet of paper = ~100,000 nanometers thick
Nanoparticle = between 1–100 nanometers in diameter
02
![blob2 Cube Illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob2-1.png)
Nano-scale particles have unusual properties, including an increased ratio of surface area to volume. Scientists take advantage of these properties and the unique ways nanoparticles interact with other materials.
![blob3 Mixture in beaker illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob3.png)
03
For example, niclosamide, a drug with potential to treat cancer and a broad spectrum of viruses, including coronavirus, has a tough, crystalline structure. This makes it difficult to dissolve, and in turn, difficult for the body to absorb.
![blob4 Nanoparticles Illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob4.png)
04
OHPP, a nanoparticle derived from U.S.-grown corn, was developed by Yuan Yao, professor of food science, and his collaborators. It can form hydrogen bonds with niclosamide, making the drug up to 5,000 times more soluble.
![blob5 Stomach with pill illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob5.png)
05
Making niclosamide more soluble makes it more bioavailable, which would allow the drug to be released through an oral formulation like a capsule or tablet.
![blob1 Paper Illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob1.png)
01
Nano = one-billionth
Nanometer = one-billionth of a meter
Sheet of paper = ~100,000 nanometers thick
Nanoparticle = between 1–100 nanometers in diameter
![blob2 Cube Illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob2-1.png)
02
Nano-scale particles have unusual properties, including an increased ratio of surface area to volume. Scientists take advantage of these properties and the unique ways nanoparticles interact with other materials.
![blob3_mobile Beaker with mixture illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob3_mobile.png)
03
For example, niclosamide, a drug with potential to treat cancer and a broad spectrum of viruses, including coronavirus, has a tough, crystalline structure. This makes it difficult to dissolve, and in turn, difficult for the body to absorb.
![blob4_mobile Nanoparticle Illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob4_mobile.png)
04
OHPP, a nanoparticle derived from U.S.-grown corn, was developed by Yuan Yao, professor of food science, and his collaborators. It can form hydrogen bonds with niclosamide, making the drug up to 5,000 times more soluble.
![blob5_mobile stomach with pill illustration](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/blob5_mobile-e1620324796160.png)
05
Making niclosamide more soluble makes it more bioavailable, which would allow the drug to be released through an oral formulation like a capsule or tablet.
OTHER NANOTECHNOLOGY USES
![Asset 2-8 NETWORK](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Asset-2-8-1.png)
more portable electronic systems, better screens
![Asset 3-8 BATTERY](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Asset-3-8-1.png)
efficient batteries and energy-conducting materials
![Asset 4-8 WATER](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Asset-4-8-1.png)
cleaner water and oil spill cleanup
![Asset 5-8 MEAL](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Asset-5-8-1.png)
packaging that prevents spoilage and contamination
![Asset 6-8 PHONE](https://ag.purdue.edu/envision/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Asset-6-8.png)
advanced glass films and lightweight materials
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