A Deep Dive Into Nanomaterials: Unraveling the Impact of Tiny Structures
Executive Summary
- Nanomaterials are sparking a revolution in modern industries. Nanomaterials’ nanoscale dimensions and distinctive properties make them a promising area of research and development, through which they play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of technology and innovation.
- The manipulation of nanomaterials at the atomic level offers a myriad of applications across industries. In healthcare, nanomaterials are revolutionizing diagnostics and molecular imaging, drug delivery systems, and regenerative medicine. They also play a role in climate technology, enabling developments such as renewable energy resources, sustainable agriculture, water and soil treatment, and automotive battery technology.
- The field of nanotechnology, however, faces several challenges before wider adoption will be seen. These include the scalability of the materials for large-scale commercial adoption, safety and toxicity studies, and an outdated regulatory environment.
- Corporations are demonstrating cutting-edge research and applications in the field, but startups are not lagging behind. After years of research and specialization in nanotechnology, many startups are challenging the status quo, leading breakthroughs, and disrupting conventional practices.
- Nanomaterials are at a tipping point, and with each advancement, we edge closer to a future shaped by the remarkable possibilities these materials offer.
Introduction
In the ever-evolving landscape of investment opportunities, one revolutionary frontier has captured the attention of savvy investors and visionaries alike: nanotechnologies. Steve Jurvetson, founder of DFJ and investor in SpaceX, Tesla, and Skype, proclaimed in the early 2000s that nanotechnologies would be “the next great tech wave.” While the industry has not seen broad commercial adoption to date, we stand at a potential tipping point as corporations and startups commit substantial resources to bring solutions to the market at more feasible unit economics.
To start with, let’s dive into Nanomaterials 101:
Nanomaterials are materials characterized by their nanoscale dimensions, typically ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers in size and corresponding to the dimensions of a protein, a DNA strand, or a virus. To put this size into perspective, one nanometer is about as long as a fingernail grows in one second, while a sheet of paper is about 100,000 nanometers thick. On a comparative scale, if the diameter of a marble ball was one nanometer, then Earth’s diameter would be about one meter!
Nanomaterials exhibit distinctive physical, chemical, and biological properties from their larger-scale (also referred to as “bulk”) counterparts, including a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, which makes them sturdier, more durable, and more conductive. Their small size also allows for precise manipulation and control at the atomic or molecular level, enabling the development of innovative materials with tailored properties and a wide range of applications across multiple fields. The discovery of nanomaterials can be traced back to the pioneering work of Nobel prize physicist Richard Feynman in 1959, who first discussed the potential for manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular scale. Since then, the field of nanomaterials has continued to evolve, with new materials being discovered and developed on an ongoing basis, driving innovation and revolutionizing numerous industries with their remarkable properties.
Before diving into the applications of nanomaterials, let’s take a closer look at their technical features.
Nanomaterials: A Deeper Dive Into Their Classifications
The dimensionality and base constituents of nanomaterials determine their characteristics and physico-chemical properties, where even the smallest change in the nanoparticles’ configuration remarkably alters their features and uses.
Consider, for instance, gold nanospheres and gold nanorods. They are both composed of gold atoms, but differ in their structure: gold nanospheres are spherical in shape, while gold nanorods have an elongated rod-like structure. Their shapes influence the way electrons interact with light at the nanoscale, which leads to different optical properties. Gold nanospheres predominantly absorb and scatter light in the visible region, giving them a vibrant color, such as red or blue. On the other hand, gold nanorods absorb and scatter light in the near-infrared region. This unique property makes gold nanorods valuable in various biomedical applications, such as cancer diagnosis and photothermal therapy, a noninvasive treatment where near-infrared light can penetrate deeper into biological tissues and thermally ablate cancer cells.
The potential for creating new nanomaterials is virtually limitless as long as we have the ability to manipulate atoms and molecules at the nanoscale. For this reason, nanomaterials are often categorized based on classifications of either their dimensionality or material composition.
To illustrate dimensionality, there are for example:
- Zero-dimensional nanomaterials, whereby all dimensions (x, y, z) are at the nanoscale; hence no dimensions are greater than 100 nm. They include gold nanoparticles, quantum dots, and fullerenes; and
- Two-dimensional nanomaterials, which hold two dimensions outside the nanoscale. This class exhibits plate-like shapes and includes graphene sheets, nanofilms, and nanolayers.
In terms of material composition, the main macro-classifications are the following:
- Carbon-based nanomaterials have carbon as their main constituent, and exhibit unique electrical conductivity, high strength, and high electron affinity. They most commonly take the form of hollow spheres (fullerenes) or tubes (nanotubes).
- Metal-based nanomaterials possess characteristics such as strong plasma absorption and outstanding optical properties. It is also possible to mix two or more nanoparticles, through which even rare earth metals can change the main element characteristics and properties.
- Semiconductor nanomaterials have piezoelectric, metallic and non-metallic properties for which they find applications in photocatalysis, photo optics and electronic devices. Their unique characteristic lies in their ability to regulate electrical conductivity by manipulating their size, composition, and structure.
- Polymeric nanomaterials are typically organic-based and manufactured using natural and synthetic polymers, and can be used for technological improvements in drug delivery and other biomedical applications.
- Lipid-based nanomaterials are generally spherical, and have a solid lipid core and a matrix containing soluble lipophilic molecules. Lipid-based nanoparticles have various applications in the biomedical field, such as drug carriers and delivery, and RNA release in cancer therapy.
For more information, we recommend the following reviews on nanomaterial dimensionality and material composition.
Opportunities and Challenges
Opportunities: Advances in the Creation of New Materials, Synthesis and Fabrication
Nanomaterial synthesis and fabrication has witnessed remarkable advances, revolutionizing the way we design, engineer, and manipulate matter at the atomic and molecular levels. This progress has unlocked countless possibilities, enabling the creation of materials with tailored properties and unprecedented functionalities.
At the core of this progress lies the development of innovative synthesis techniques, through which researchers have pioneered innovative methods to precisely control the size, shape, composition, and structure of nanomaterials. Novel fabrication techniques, like 3D printing at the nanoscale, permit the creation of intricate structures with remarkable detail and complexity. Through precision engineering, nanomaterials are constructed with customized characteristics and properties, which are essential for high-accuracy applications like targeted drug delivery or nanoscale imaging of environmental contaminants.
Furthermore, the integration of nanomaterials into existing technologies has been realized through advances in nanomanufacturing processes such as self-assembly techniques, helping researchers achieve large-scale production of nanomaterials. These scalable approaches not only facilitate industrial adoption but also lead to cost reduction (see Figure 4), making nanomaterials more accessible for a wide range of applications.
Challenges: Safety Concerns, Outdated Regulations, and Manufacturing and Scalability
While opportunities are plenty, nanomaterials also present certain challenges, primarily the following three:
- Safety concerns arise both in the pharmaceutical and environmental industries, as nanomaterials could increase toxicity levels. Nanomaterials used for medical purposes could evade the immune system and accumulate in specific tissues, occasionally forming masses that the body may not easily recognize or control (source). Effects of nanoparticles like zinc oxide, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, and carbon nanotubes have been associated with cell death, production of oxidative stress, DNA damage, and induction of inflammatory responses within the body. Similar conclusions have been drawn for the use of nanomaterials is environmental settings, where the accumulation of certain nanoparticles in the soil has reduced the rate of photosynthesis and transpiration of plants (source).
- The regulatory environment is challenging and outdated: the research is advancing faster than what regulators can keep up with, hence startups and corporates often have to adhere to outdated safety and risk profiles.
- The manufacturing and scalability of nanomaterials have proven to be costly and a technical challenge. Therefore, in order to make the unit economics work for a venture case scenario, there must be evidence that customers will be willing to pay for premium pricing.
Market Trends
From drug diagnostics and therapeutics to manufacturing and sustainable agriculture, nanomaterials exhibit unique properties across numerous industries (source). The market is driven by technological advancements, rising government support, private sector R&D funding, and strategic international alliances, and is fueled by increasing demand for device miniaturization (source). The global nanotechnologies market was valued at $111.25 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $288.71 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 14.5% (source).
In 2021, healthcare accounted for approximately 30% of the global nanotechnology market and established its dominance as the largest sub-sector. This segment’s growth can be attributed to the widespread utilization of nanotechnology in various medical advancements, including the development of nano-diagnostics, imaging technologies, nano-biosensors, cell repair, and targeted drug delivery applications.
When considering the share of the nanotechnology market by industry sector in 2023, healthcare is still in the lead, but climate tech is now in third place (referred to as materials and resources in the chart) and gaining relevance on an annual basis.
Nanotechnology Funding and Research Leaders
A cursory look at the leading sectors within the nanotechnology market reveals that a wide range of applications and use cases characterizes this market.
Not surprisingly, governments and private sector agencies worldwide are increasingly investing in nanotechnology. From 2007 to 2011, the European Union invested approximately €896 million in nanotechnology-related research. As previously mentioned, the global investment in nanotechnology is estimated to be nearly a quarter of a trillion USD, with startups like Sila Nanotechnologies, a battery materials company, raising $590M, and C4V, a lithium-ion battery manufacturer, raising $347M in their recent funding round. Notable contributions have been made by China and the USA (source). The latter, through the National Nanotechnology Initiative, has invested over $38 billion to date to support research of nanoscale matters, solidifying its position as a global frontrunner in government investment in nanotechnology (source).
Alongside the USA and China, Brazil, and Germany are expected to lead the nanotechnology industry in 2024. As awareness about the field grows, funding for nanomaterials has seen a steady increase. Higher allocations of public funding towards nanomaterial research and growth in financing for nanomaterial-related startups signify the growing importance and potential of nanotechnology in various industries.
A Breakdown of the Market
Nanomedicine
Nanomaterials have emerged as powerful tools in nanomedicine, revolutionizing diagnostics and imaging, drug delivery systems, and regenerative medicine, with active engagement of major pharmaceutical multinationals like Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.
Molecular imaging enables advanced and non-invasive visualization of cellular functions and biological processes in vivo, which allows for early detection of genetic abnormalities, tumors, and accurate disease diagnosis at early stages. To achieve effective molecular imaging, a contrast agent with high sensitivity is necessary, and nanoparticles with controllable magnetic properties, optical properties, and long circulation times have been extensively studied as contrast agents for this purpose (source).
In addition, some nanoparticles have intrinsic properties suitable for multimodal imaging, a technique that generates signals from various modalities simultaneously. These multifunctional nanoparticles don’t only improve diagnostic precision, but also mitigate drug side effects by combining different nanomaterials, functional molecules, and targeting agents. For instance, iron oxide nanoparticles conjugated with optical or radio isotopes are used in optical and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, as well as drug delivery for certain medical applications.
In targeted drug delivery systems, nanoparticles can act as nanocarriers and transport therapeutic agents to the targeted locations in the body, enhancing the drug delivery efficiency while minimizing toxicity to nontarget cells, tissues, or organs (source). Common nanocarriers include polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based carriers, gold nanoparticles, dendrimers, and carbon tubes, which are used depending on the features — such as charge, size, and solubility — of the pharmaceutical substances they carry (source). Some nanocarriers also deliver medication to the brain for tough-to-treat illnesses, including tumors and central nervous system (CNS) disorders, through their exceptional ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (source), which inhibits 98% of conventional pharmaceuticals from leaving the bloodstream and entering the brain (source). Moreover, nanoparticles can be conjugated or loaded with drugs to provide additional functionalities like controlled release, improved stability, prolonged circulation time, and enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
Nanomaterials also offer great potential for applications in regenerative medicine, including biomolecule delivery, tissue engineering scaffolds, cell tracking, and stem cell therapy, and have the potential to address various tissue diseases affecting bone, muscle, cardiovascular, and neural systems. As part of tissue regeneration, nanotechnology plays a crucial role in recreating nanoscale tissue features and repairing or replacing damaged tissues to restore their normal function. In this regard, researchers are actively developing smart bandages for acute wounds designed to incorporate embedded nanofibers that are capable of releasing coagulants and antibiotics (source, source).
Single-walled carbon nanotubes within the bandage are able to identify and monitor infections in the wound by detecting concentrations of hydrogen peroxide — produced by white blood cells in the presence of pathogenic bacteria. A miniaturized wearable device will monitor the smart bandage and wirelessly detect signals from the embedded carbon nanotubes. These signals will be transmitted to a smartphone-like device, which will automatically alert the patient or healthcare provider. Scientists envision the device as a tool to diagnose infections at an early stage, reducing antibiotic use and avoiding extreme measures such as limb amputation (source).
Furthermore, 4D printing has emerged as an intriguing application for tissue regeneration, as it allows for the creation of “smart scaffolds” that can mimic the dynamic nature of natural tissue repair. While 3D printing can produce complex tissue scaffolds, it falls short in replicating the dynamic changes that occur during tissue regeneration. By introducing nanomaterials into 4D printing, smart nano-bioinks can be developed to enhance these dynamic effects in printed bio-tissues. Although only a limited number of smart materials have been explored for 4D printing, rapid advances in the field hold great promise for biomedicine and are revolutionizing tissue regeneration (source).
Environmental Treatments
Nanotechnology has shown significant potential in addressing environmental challenges such as water treatment, soil contaminant treatment, and hazardous waste management. Multinationals like Dow Chemical Company and LG Water Solutions have explored nanotechnology-based solutions for desalination and water purification, including the development of advanced nanofiltration membranes for enhanced water treatment processes.
Developed nations are increasingly recognizing the effectiveness of nanotechnology in addressing environmental issues, particularly in water and cell cleaning technologies, drinking safety measures, and the detoxification of contaminants from the environment, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and solvents. Nanofiltration — often performed through graphene, nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, polysulfone, or polyamide — is employed for the detoxification of the contaminants in water solutions. This process utilizes pressure to separate contaminants from water streams, and selectively filters molecules based on size and charge, including pesticides, viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens (source). Instead, immobilization and adsorption processes are used to eliminate metal contaminants from soils. Iron (II, III) oxide nanomaterials, in particular, exhibit an exceptional ability to absorb and immobilize heavy metals like cadmium and arsenic from various environmental sources.
Renewable Energy
Nanotechnology is increasingly integrated into renewable energy sources, particularly in solar, hydrogen, biomass, geothermal, and tidal wave energy production. Solar collectors, in particular, have gained significant attention. Research has focused on upgrading solar collectors through the nanoengineering of various components such as flat solar plates, direct absorption plates, parabolic troughs, and wavy plates and heat pipes. The use of nanofluids has become common in these devices to improve their efficiency. In addition, cell doping, a common method of modifying the new cell’s nanomaterial, introduces specific impurities or additives into the nanomaterial structure to enhance its electrical properties (source). Nanotechnology-based solar devices have lower costs and less complex manufacturing, however, there is still a need to explore the full potential of nanomaterials in the design and manufacturing of solar panels to maximize their cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
Sustainable Agriculture
Nanomaterials have also greatly contributed to sustainable agriculture by enhancing crop production, improving soil quality, and play a role in the processing and transport of agricultural products. Global agricultural science and technology company Syngenta has been actively researching nanotechnology for crop protection, seed treatment, and precision agriculture. German chemical company BASF has also been researching nanotechnology applications in agriculture, including nanoscale delivery systems for agrochemicals.
Nanotechnology has introduced precision farming techniques — the distribution of nutrients and agrochemicals to plants in a nanoparticle-meditated manner — to improve nutrient absorption and disease detection in plants (source). Nickel ferrite and copper nanoparticles, for example, have strong anti-fungal properties used to increase the efficiency of disease management.
In addition, nanoherbicides and nanopesticides contain polymeric and inorganic nanoparticles, and effectively manage weed and pests, leading to increased crop productivity compared to their free herbicide and pesticide counterparts. For example, polymeric nanoparticle poly(epsilon-caprolactone) contains atrazine, a commonly used herbicide, and has demonstrated control of the targeted weed species, reduced genotoxicity, and decreased azatine mobility in the soil compared to standard atrazine (source, source).
Nanoclays and zeolites, instead, enhance fertilizers for soil nutrient management and fertility restoration. Smart seeds — seeds with biotechnological and genetically engineered traits — and seed banks — which conserve seed specimens of plant species to preserve genetic diversity — are designed to improve agricultural productivity and efficiency. Carbon nanotubes have been shown to significantly improve germination and plant growth by entering the hard seed coat of particular seeds, while various other nano-treatments are available to enhance the germination index of plants (source).
Automotive Industry: Energy Storage and Conversion
The automotive industry is also embracing nanotechnology to revolutionize energy storage and conversion. Tesla and Samsung SDI, two of the leading players in the automotive industry, have improved electric vehicle batteries by using carbon nanotubes.
The application of carbon nanotubes in vehicle battery design provides a larger surface area than traditional materials, which allows for a ten-fold increase in power output, a five-fold boost in longevity, and an increase in charge capacity to three times larger than regular batteries. When placed in a lithium-ion battery, carbon nanotubes expand their energy-generating surface area, and form a dense and conductive network within it, thereby enhance performance even when the battery ages or undergoes damage (source). Nanotechnology also improves energy storage in fuel cells through nanoscale catalysts, improving performance and energy conversion efficiency (source).
Companies in the Field
While multinational corporations show clear signs of innovative nanotechnology research and adoptions, emerging companies are not lagging behind. Many are challenging the status quo, spearheading breakthrough advancements, and disrupting conventional practices. Let’s explore some early-stage startups in health tech and climate tech, the pillars that excite us the most.
Nanomaterials find utility in health across three primary areas: molecular imaging, diagnostics, and therapy; targeted drug delivery systems; and regenerative medicine.
Molecular Imaging, Diagnostics, and Therapy
→ QDI Systems, a Dutch spinout from the University of Groningen, offers medical imaging devices using quantum dot technology. The company’s devices are X-ray sensors that offer high-precision X-ray imaging at reduced radiation doses, enabling doctors to get high contrast and resolution mammograms.
→ US-based company Bikanta has developed a nanodiamond-based medical device for diagnostics and optical imaging at the molecular and cellular levels. By overcoming technical limitations, the device enables fast and accurate cancer detection, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes for patients with cancer and other serious illnesses.
→ RNA Guardian, a UK-based biotechnology company, is actively developing a proprietary technology focused on the detection and monitoring of precancerous conditions from RNA-binding proteins.
→ Italian seed company Diamante leverages nanotechnologies to produce plant-based pepitide drugs designed for the diagnosis and therapy of autoimmune diseases. They utilize plants as bioreactors to produce nanoparticles based on modified plant viruses, which enable the development of novel tools for autoimmune disease therapy.
→ Kimialys, a French seed startup, works in biodetection for the development of rapid diagnostic assays. The company provides biochips and nanoparticles for biosensors, coated with proprietary surface chemistry, which increases their sensitivity and specificity to deliver accurate, rapid, and cost-effective diagnostic tests.
Targeted Drug Delivery Systems
→ Optima Nanomed is a UK-based, pre-seed biotech company that develops inorganic nanomaterials for precise drug delivery, enhanced drug properties, and targeted transportation from blood circulation to the diseased tissues. Their platform technology employs data-driven matching analysis to identify optimal nanomaterials for specific drugs.
→ Nanoligent develops nanotechnology-based treatments for metastatic cancer using self-assembling protein nanoparticles that selectively target and kill metastatic cells by binding to over-expressed CXCR4 protein receptors. Through this approach, the company provides more effective and less harmful cancer treatments compared to traditional drugs.
→ UK-based, series A nanotechnology company SomaServe specializes in the production of self-assembly polymers for intracellular delivery. They encapsulate therapeutic agents in polymer nanovesicles that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and selectively target tissues and cell types to enhance therapeutic efficacy.
→ Torskal is a French-based, seed stage biotech company that designs gold nanoparticles for cancer therapy using green chemistry. They leverage green nanotechnology to develop non-toxic and eco-friendly nanomaterials for treating both surface and deep cancers.
→ Seed company Sixfold Bioscience has developed an RNA delivery platform to conduct cell and gene therapeutics. They utilize nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic, diagnostic, and targeting molecules to disease-afflicted cells, including in hard-to-reach areas like the brain.
Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering
→ Anavo Medical, a Swiss seed stage company, develops a nanoparticle-based pharmaceutical product that accelerates wound healing and reduces complications in skin grafts by utilizing bioactive nanoparticles with anti-inflammatory and neo-angiogenic properties.
→ US-based seed stage company Cayuga Biotech develops biomimetic therapeutics by harnessing the body’s natural healing and hemostatic capabilities. Their technology includes a clinically-ready drug for life-threatening bleeding and discovery-stage therapeutics for conditions such as bleeding disorders, non-healing wounds, and severe burns. Through their technology, the company aims to increase survival rates and minimize disability from trauma.
The applications of nanomaterials in climate technologies are multifaceted; let’s explore some approaches below.
→ UK-based Series A FabricNano, one of our portfolio companies, develops enzymes by leveraging nanotechnology and biotechnology to replace petrochemical products, agricultural feed, and plastics with bio-based alternatives.
Water and Soil Purification and Treatment
→ Nanoseen is a Polish nanotechnology company specializing in water purification and desalination solutions. Their approach converts seawater, salt water, and wastewater into clean drinking water without requiring pressure or energy, providing a sustainable solution to the global drinking water shortage.
→ CrayoNano, a Norwegian early-stage company, manufactures light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that emit ultraviolet light. Their diodes feature patented vertically aligned nano-wires on graphene which emit UV-C radiation, a well-studied disinfectant against bacteria, viruses, and mold. Their miniature UV-C device integrates into systems for water treatment, surface disinfection, air disinfection, and food processing.
Sustainable Agriculture
→ Infrascreen, a Swiss seed company with expertise in nanotechnology, develops light filters that enhance greenhouse climate management. Their sustainable solution doubles the efficiency of energy-saving screens, enabling greenhouse growers to significantly minimize radiative heat losses, resulting in lower operating costs, reduced carbon emissions and more sustainable agricultural practices.
→ US-based early-stage company Unibaio specializes in biodegradable nano-encapsulation technology. Through their approach, particles encapsulate the active ingredients of pesticides and release them into plants over time, increasing the efficacy and reducing application doses. Unibaio creates micro-nanocapsules tailored to specific crops and pests, allowing agricultural businesses to reduce their reliance on toxic chemicals while activating the innate defense system of plants, stimulating their growth and improving their overall health and well-being.
Energy Harvesting in the Automotive Industry
→ Nanom, an Icelandic seed stage company, is introducing a groundbreaking battery technology that utilizes nanoparticles to make batteries significantly more efficient than conventional lithium-ion batteries. Their patented batteries possess an impressive lifespan, lasting 9 times longer than nickel-iron batteries and lithium-ion batteries, while also being 5 times lighter, offering improved energy density, faster recharge rates, and enhanced battery disposal capabilities (source).
→ Series A company E-magy operates a nanotechnology materials company that supplies nano-porous silicon for high-energy lithium-ion batteries. Their materials are created through an efficient silicon crystallization process, followed by industry-standard post-processing steps, offering automotive companies cost-effective batteries for electric vehicles with extended range and rapid charging.
The Way Forward
We find ourselves on the brink of a thrilling era in materials science, where cutting-edge synthesis techniques and advances in nanomanufacturing promise remarkable advancements. The precise manipulation of nanomaterials, controlling their size, shape, composition, and structure, holds tremendous potential for tailored applications across diverse industries.
As the field of nanotechnology progresses, collaboration and partnerships with private entities, governments, and research institutions will be instrumental in driving innovation, addressing safety considerations, and ensuring responsible development and integration of nanomaterials. This represents a large opportunity for early-stage companies and startups to harness research support and innovation stemming from various industries. The profound impact of nanomaterials on industries and society is eagerly anticipated, and with each advancement we edge closer to a future shaped by their remarkable capabilities.
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