Nanotechnology in the stone industry

Nanotechnology in the stone industry

March 17, 2023 Fred Hueston Comments Off

Nanotechnology in the stone industry

By Frederick M. Hueston, stoneforensics.com

The latest buzz word in the stone industry is nano this and nano that. The chemical manufactures in the stone industry are selling us that their product is superior to others cause it was developed with nanotechnology. Is this just BS or is there something special about nanotechnology. Let’s take a closer look.

To understand nano science, we first need to understand the basics.

Little particles called atoms serve as the basis for all matter. Molecules are the building blocks from which everything we see around us, including ourselves, rocks, trees, paper, and water, is constructed. Since they are so small, you can’t detect their presence. It’s estimated that the average human body has 7 octillion (7 x 10(18)) atoms.

Some scientists, if you can believe it, have figured out how to control even smaller pieces of those teeny-tiny atoms! Nanotechnology is the study of atoms and molecules at the nanoscale to discover how they might be combined and modified to perform extraordinary and useful tasks. Nanotechnologists are scientists who play with these atomic components to create novel therapeutics.

How tiny are these atoms’ constituent parts? They are as small as one nanometer, a unit of measurement. Ever come upon a meter stick? A few inches longer than a yardstick, a meter stick is used for measurement. A yardstick is over one million nanometers.

Nanotechnology has been a buzzword in various industries, including the stone industry, for some time now. It refers to the manipulation of materials at the nanoscale level, which is about one billionth of a meter. This technology has been used to develop products that have unique properties and performance characteristics.

In the stone industry, the use of nanotechnology has led to the development of products such as sealers, cleaners, and polishing agents that are said to be more effective and durable than traditional products. For example, nano-sealers are designed to penetrate deeper into the stone, creating a more robust and longer-lasting protective barrier against stains and water damage.

But is there any truth to these claims? While some skeptics might dismiss the use of nanotechnology as a marketing gimmick, there is scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. Nanoparticles have unique physical and chemical properties that make them highly reactive and able to interact with other materials in unique ways.

For example, the small size of nanoparticles allows them to penetrate into the microscopic pores of stone surfaces, where traditional products cannot reach. This enables them to form a more robust and durable protective layer that resists wear and tear and provides long-lasting protection against staining and other types of damage.

Moreover, the use of nanotechnology has also led to the development of products that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable. For instance, nano-polishing agents can be used with less water and electricity than traditional polishing agents, making them more energy-efficient and reducing their environmental impact.

The use of nanotechnology in the stone industry is not just a marketing gimmick. It has been scientifically proven to improve the performance and durability of stone care products. However, it is essential to note that not all products claiming to be developed with nanotechnology are equal. Therefore, it is crucial to do proper research and select products from reputable manufacturers who have a proven track record of producing high-quality nano-based stone care products.