Last time I have discussed the magnetic and medicinal applications of nanomaterials. Today to extend it further I will discuss the electrical properties of nanomaterials or nanoparticles.

Electrical properties of nanomaterials:

1.)    High Energy Density Batteries. As we all know that conventional and rechargeable batteries are used in almost all applications that require electric power. The energy density or storage capacity of these batteries is quite low requiring frequent recharging. Nanocrystalline materials are good materials for separator plates in batteries because they can hold considerably more energy than conventional ones. Nickel-metal hydride batteries made of nanocrystalline nickel and metal hydrides are envisioned to require far less frequent recharging and to last much longer.

2.)    Large Electrochromic Display Devices. An electrochromic device consists of materials in which an optical absorption band can be introduced, or an existing band can be alerted by the passage of current through the materials, or by the application of an electric field. They are similar to liquid-crystal displays(LCDs) commonly used in calculators and watches and are primarily used in public billboards and ticker boards to convey information. The resolution, brightness, and contrast of these devices depend on the tungstic acid gel’s grain size. Therefore, nanomaterials, such as tungstic oxide gel, are being explored for this purpose.