Nanomaterials and Nanoengineering for Aerospace Systems

Nanomaterials are materials with at least one external dimension measuring between 1 and 100 nanometers. With physical dimensions reaching the order of chemical bond lengths, nanomaterials exhibit unique optical, electronic, thermo-physical, or mechanical properties that could be leveraged to achieve technologies of unmatched potential. Nanotechnology-enabled discoveries have transformed everyday life and their potential to transform the future is immense. Although the integration of nanotechnology into aerospace faces several challenges, ongoing research and advancements in nanotechnology are expected to overcome these hurdles, leading to the development of more efficient, durable, and cost-effective materials and systems in aerospace.

This course will provide an overview of nanomaterials, their synthesis, characterization, and their applications in our day-to-day life with special emphasis for aerospace. In-depth evaluation of nanomaterials and nanotechnology for aerospace coatings, structures, propulsion, etc. will be carried out. Specific examples of recent nanotechnology developments for aerospace and their challenges will be discussed.