Nanotechnology in Space

This book presents selected topics on nanotechnological applications in the strategic sector of space. It showcases some current activities and multidisciplinary approaches that have given an unprecedented control of matter at the nanoscale and will enable it to withstand the unique space environment. It focuses on the outstanding topic of dual-use nanotechnologies, illustrating the mutual benefits of key enabling materials that can be used successfully both on earth and in space. It highlights the importance of space as a strategic sector in the global economy, with ever-increasing related businesses worldwide. In this light, it dedicates a chapter to the analysis of current and future markets for space-related nanotechnological products and applications.

Introduction 1. Nanotechnology for Space Power Devices 2. Nanocomposite and Micro-Nanostructured Materials with Applications of MEMS/Nano Devices for Aerospace 3. Advanced Polymer Composites for Use on the Earth and in Space 4. Printable Materials for Additive Manufacturing in Harsh Earth and Space Environment 5. Nano-based Coating for Spacecraft: Antibacterial Film for Manned Application 6. Nanotechnology in the Space Economy

Maria Letizia Terranova is anhonorary professor of materials chemistry at the University of Rome “Tor Vergata,” Italy, where she teaches nanostructured materials and solid state characterizations. She holds 5 patents and is author of more than 340 articles in peer-reviewed journals and co-editor of 8 books. Emanuela Tamburri is an assistant professor at the Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome “Tor Vergata,” where she is a docent of general chemistry and chemistry of materials for molecular electronics. She holds 2 patents and is author of more than 125 articles published in indexed peer-reviewed journals.