Published online by Cambridge University Press: 08 October 2015
The ability to understand and control matter at the nanoscale has enabled the development of revolutionary new materials and devices. While nanotechnology is rapidly becoming pervasive in applications such as consumer electronics, health care, and cosmetics, there are only a limited number of examples in which nanotechnology has found its way into aerospace applications. This article discusses the potential of nanotechnology to impact future aerospace missions and vehicles, as well as the technical barriers to its wider use in aerospace.