Molecular Engineering
Introduction
Molecular engineering is an emerging field in the realm of engineering that deals with the design and testing of molecular properties, behaviors and interactions in order to assemble better materials, systems, and processes for specific functions. This discipline is at the intersection of chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering.
History
The term "molecular engineering" was first used in the scientific literature in 1955, by Arthur R. von Hippel, a MIT professor who was a pioneer in the study of dielectrics. He used the term to describe how one might design materials at a molecular level to fit a specific need. However, the practical application of molecular engineering remained largely theoretical until the advent of nanotechnology and molecular nanotechnology in the late 20th century.
Principles
Molecular engineering involves the manipulation and design of molecular structures for practical purposes. It is primarily concerned with the design and testing of molecular properties, behaviors and interactions in order to assemble better materials, systems, and processes.
Applications
Medicine
In the field of medicine, molecular engineering has been used in the design of drug delivery systems and biomaterials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. It has also been used in the development of biosensors for diagnostics.
Energy
In the energy sector, molecular engineering has been applied in the design of new materials for energy storage and conversion, including fuel cells, batteries, and solar cells.
Electronics
In electronics, molecular engineering has been used in the design of semiconductors, quantum dots, and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).
Environment
Molecular engineering also plays a role in environmental protection, with applications in water purification, air purification, and the development of environmentally friendly materials.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite its potential, molecular engineering also faces several challenges. These include the need for better methods of molecular synthesis, the difficulty of predicting molecular behavior, and the need for more advanced tools for manipulating molecules.
Looking forward, molecular engineering is expected to play a key role in addressing global challenges in health, energy, and the environment. It is also expected to contribute to the development of new materials with unprecedented properties.