Nanotechnology in Defense and Social Justice: Opportunities and Risks

Nanotechnology has inspired various fields including food technology, energy devices, space technology, medicine, and defence. Nanotechnology links traditional sciences like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Material Science, and Engineering and reconciles the required proficiency to evolve novel technologies. In advanced countries, militaries utilize nanotechnology for various applications including nanomedicine, wound healing bandages, antibacterial silver-based packed food, and sensors for toxic gas. Nanocomposites with benzoxazine and urethane-based polymers reinforced by aramid fibres and MWCNT were studied for ballistic helmets with lightweight. Bulletproof material composed of polyethene (ultrahigh molecular weight) with WS2 nanoparticles was developed. Nitroaromatics, a threat to the homeland and the safety of the public was well monitored using allylamine-based nitrogen-rich carbon nanodots. Socks with silver nanocoating stay hygienic during the war. Remote-controlled vehicles were equipped with zinc oxide nanowires for the detection of explosive vapours in field deployment circumstances. Nanoporous alumina is utilized for the detection and accumulation of gases generated upon degrading rocket propellants. Currently, the military in advanced countries has employed nanotechnology. Nanotechnology has equipped the army with lightweight and strong ware with nanomedicine and nano bandages for wound healing. This in turn may affect a society by involving it in counterproductive warfare. Despite such improvements, there are certain risks associated with manufacturing to application and finally disposal. There are more than 1300 nanotechnology-based products in the global market. These nanostructured materials can be deleterious to humans and the environment. This chapter is a brief compilation of facets of nanotechnology in defence and the risk associated, delivering the readers, cutting-edge knowledge in nanotechnology.