Encyclopedia of Wireless Networks

Abstract

Synonyms Nano communication networks Definition A nanonetwork is a set of interconnected nanomachines, i.e., devices that integrate nanometer-scale components, with computing, data storing, sensing, and actuation capabilities. Nanonetworks are expected to expand the capabilities of single nanomachines both in terms of complexity and range of operation by allowing them to coordinate, share, and fuse information. Nanonetworks enable new applications of nanotechnology in the biomedical field, environmental research, military technology, and industrial and consumer goods applications. Historical Background Nanotechnology and biotechnology are providing the engineering community with a new set of tools to control matter and program functions at the atomic and molecular scale. At this scale, novel nanomaterials, structures, and systems show new properties that cannot be realized at the microscopic level. By leveraging such properties, devices with unprecedented applications can be developed. Among others, nanosensors and nanoactuators, able to both monitor and control © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020 X.(S.) Shen et al. (eds.), Encyclopedia of Wireless Networks, https://doi.