Marvel Studios have hit gold with their latest “Black Panther” movie. As revealed in past during the San Diego Comic Con, T’Challa was anticipated to wear a high-tech nano-tech suit. It seemed that nanotechnology was about to have its first view in mainstream cinema. So, did we see the nano-tech suit? Or, the idea of nanotechnology is still as hidden as Wakanda? Did the suit have a hint of the real nano photocatalytic titanium dioxide and its functions?
One has to understand what nanotechnology really is to get the answer to these questions. Nanotechnology at its core means manipulating things at a nano level. As mentioned in Wiki, “In its original sense, nanotechnology refers to the projected ability to construct items from the bottom up, using techniques and tools being developed today to make complete, high performance products.” In the movie, Shuri, the king’s sister, has developed a suit using nanotechnology which fits in the necklace of the Black Panther. This saves a lot of time and T’Challa is ready to save Wakanda and avenge whenever needed at the tip of hat. If anything, this is just one way of looking at nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is a vast field of work and there is a wide range of applications like nanomedicine, nanoelectronics, biomaterials, etc… In a way, the new movie showed a glimpse of what nanotechnology can do if used in the right manner.
What are the present practical uses?
King T’Challa’s fictional nation of Wakanda is arguably the most advanced nation on the face of earth in terms of technology and culture. However, we mere mortals can also use the much-awed nano-tech for practical applications, as of now. For instance, the nano photocatalytic titanium dioxide coating can be used in several areas. The versatile coating has anti-microbial qualities as well as controls odor in the most environmentally friendly manner. Though getting the high-tech gizmos that make the life in Wakanda may be far-fetched, nanotechnology making lives easier is not. From self-cleaning to being environmental friendly, nanotechnology is there for you.
In conclusion, we are glad that the mainstream cinema world is taking steps of showing the world the power of nanotechnology. Albeit futuristic and jaded by CGI, masses have started gaining interest in nanotechnology even more than ever before.
