Scientists have been studying nanometers for years, but it’s only recently that engineers have been able to develop the technology needed to create an amazing array of applications such as waterproof clothing, cosmetics, sports equipment, bandages that help wounds heal more quickly, computers, mechanisms for targeted drug delivery, socks that reduce foot odour, as well as scratch-resistant office desks and chairs.
A nanometer is mind-bogglingly small – about one 80,000th of the width of a human hair. According to Nanotech for Dummies, “Nanotechnology is the study and use of structures between 1 nanometer (nm) and 100 nanometers in size”, involving the fine-tuning of “materials at atomic, molecular and macromolecular scales, where properties differ significantly from those at a larger scale” in order to produce materials that are different from those that would occur naturally.
When it comes to office furniture, nanotechnology produces a material that has a number of advantages:
It’s about as simple as you get when it comes to cleaning. Most of the time all you’ll need is a non-abrasive cloth and warm water. If you want to be more thorough, use a non-abrasive household cleaner too.
For tougher stains, check the Care Guide to find out more about the cleaning tools and products you can and cannot use.
The Care Guide also gives instructions on how to heal tiny scratches on nanotech surfaces with an iron and some kitchen paper. It not only feels like magic, it also means your nanotech office furniture will look great for longer.
