Nanotechnology in Energy Applications

Abstract

Nanotechnology is increasingly impacting the U.S. and world energy balance, both on the supply and demand sides. On the supply side, nanotechnology is being used to optimize production from existing energy sources (e.g., crude petroleum) and to exploit new sources such as heavy oil, liquefied coal, and solar energy (including using solar energy to produce hydrogen). Nanotechnology is also improving and opening new possibilities for the transmission and storage of energy, especially electricity and possibly hydrogen in the future.

On the supply side, nanotechnologies have the potential to reduce energy consumption by making it possible to manufacture lighter and/or more energy efficient cards and appliances. Nanotechnologies can also be used to improve energy efficiency in buildings.

• The global market for nanoscale materials (e.g., nanopowders, nanocomposites, nanoscale thin films, and others) and devices (e.g., nanosensors) used in the following types of energy applications: renewable and non-renewable energy production (e.g., petroleum refining, solar energy), energy transmission, conversion, and storage (e.g., transmission systems, transformers, batteries and fuel cells), and energy end-uses (motor vehicles, building HVAC systems, manufacturing)
• Nanotechnology applications that are currently in commercial use or are likely to be commercialized by 2012. Other applications that are unlikely to make it out of the laboratory by 2012 are not covered in depth.
• An in-depth technology review and a detailed patent analysis
• Profiles for important companies.

The findings and conclusions of this report are based on information gathered from developers and manufacturers of nanoscale materials and devices and the energy systems in which they are used, as well as concerned governmental, industry, and professional organizations. Interview data were combined with information gathered through an extensive review of secondary sources such as trade publications, trade associations, company literature, and online databases to produce the baseline market estimates contained in this report.

The methodologies and assumptions used to develop the market projections in this report are discussed at length under the various types of nano-energy applications. The report carefully documents data sources and assumptions. This way, readers can see how the market estimates were developed and, if they so desire, test the impact on the final numbers of changing assumptions such as price.

Andrew McWilliams, the author of this report, is a partner in the Boston-based international technology and marketing consulting firm, 43rd Parallel, LLC. He is the author of numerous other BCC Research technology market research reports, including several reports in the areas of nanotechnology and energy such as Advanced Materials and Devices for Renewable Energy Systems, EGY053A, Petroleum Fuel Optimization Technologies, EGY051A, Catalysts for Environmental and Energy Applications, CHM020B, and Nanomaterials Market by Type, NAN040A.