Materials 1,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair are the basis of modern technology, and behave vastly differently from their “bigger brothers.” These nanomaterials possess fascinating properties which have transformed technology across engineering, from renewable energy to cancer treatment.

Researchers at the Nanomaterials and Thin-Films Laboratory at Duke University are studying nanomaterials to see if they can be used to help solve real-world problems. The potential uses of nanomaterials include water sanitation in under-developed countries, improving electric vehicles, and capturing solar energy.

While these amazing materials are too small to see, Jimmy Thostenson of the Nanomaterials and Thin-Films Laboratory will help open your eyes to the boundless potential and importance of this fascinating class of materials.

About Our Speaker

Jimmy Thostenson is a PhD student in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Pratt School of Engineering of Duke University, and has worked in the Nanomaterials and Thin Films Laboratory for the past two years. During this time, he has focused his doctoral research on understanding and utilizing nanomaterials for applications in energy storage and water sanitation.

In his free-time, Jimmy enjoys sharing his fascination with how the small world is responsible for so many phenomena we encounter on a daily basis, yet do not give a second thought to.

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