Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science
Qualification
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science
Unit number and title
Unit 22: Materials Science
B: Examine the uses, benefits and limitations of developing nanotechnology
Learning aim
materials.
Assignment title Nanotechnology
Assessor
Issue date
Hand in deadline
You are an apprentice materials science technician working for ‘Re-Turn’, a
research and development company specialising in tailor-made polymer
products. The company has strong community links and often sends its
employees out to local sports clubs and other community groups to do
voluntary work. You have been tasked with supporting the level 3 BTEC
Vocational Scenario or
students at a local secondary school to understand about the applications of
Context
nanotechnology. You are going to write a report based on the case studies
of different nanotechnology products. The report will discuss the risks and
benefits of nanotechnology products, some of which are found in the
products developed by ‘Re-Turn’. The students will use your report as a
resource document for their studies, so it must be scientifically accurate.
Using your lesson notes and research you have carried out into
nanotechnology materials, produce a report for the level 3 BTEC students
that includes:
An explanation of what is meant by nanotechnology material,
defining this material by size, shape and type through the
comparison of properties at microscopic and macroscopic level,
highlighting differences
An explanation of the uses (e.g. computing and instrumentation,
energy, nanosolar cells, nanomedicine, chemotherapy,
nanoengineering, nanomachines, nanochemistry) and benefits
(e.g. higher strength, lighter weight, greater chemical reactivity,
scratch resistance, improved catalysis, improved electrical