Nanotechnology for Mitigation of Global Warming Impacts

Abstract

Global warming is the current challenging issue to the researchers and governments all over the world. Global mean surface temperature is projected to increase by 1.5–2 C within 40–50 years. If this trend continues, the Earth will be unfit to live in the next century. This chapter focuses on the use of nanotechnology and nanomaterials for the reduction of global surface temperature. Nanotechnology plays multifunctional role in finding solutions to reduce global warming. There are variety of nanostructured materials explored including metal organic frameworks (MOFs), nanoporous carbonaceous materials, nano silica, nano zeolites, functionalized nanomaterials, and nanocomposites, which are discussed in detail for its efficiency in sequestration of greenhouse gases. Nanomaterials possess enormous surface area per unit volume; could be more useful in the interaction of other materials; provides a room for the storage and ransport of clean energy fuels; and adsorption of greenhouse gases. Nanocomposites used in manufacturing lightweight materials for transportation reduce the usage of conventional fossil fuels and thereby reduce the global warming. Nanocatalysts store the oxygen and promote complete combustion of fuels which aids in reducing the fuel consumption as well as the generation of greenhouse gases. Nano-based lubricants and nanocoatings significantly reduce the friction and wear in the engine and cut down the consumption of fuel up to 2% and correspondingly lower the emission of carbon dioxide