Smart devices and materials for medicine, energy, and sustainability: innovations in micro and nanoengineering

Abstract

The presentation smart Devices and Materials for Medicine, Energy, and Sustainability: Innovations in Micro and Nanoengineering” offered a comprehensive view of the transformative role of smart materials and micro- and nanostructured technologies in addressing contemporary challenges. In a global context that demands more efficient, adaptive, and sustainable systems, these innovations are positioned as key tools to drive progress in critical sectors. The speaker highlighted the unique properties of smart materials—such as their ability to respond to external stimuli, adapt to their environment, and modify their functional behavior—and how these features enable the development of highly efficient and versatile devices.

One of the central themes was the application of these materials in the biomedical field, where they enable the creation of controlled drug delivery systems, highly sensitive biosensors, more functional prosthetics, and materials that actively interact with biological tissues. Likewise, advanced devices for the targeted delivery of genetic material, particularly RNA, were addressed, as well as the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning tools for the design, optimization, and industrial-scale production of nanoparticles intended for biomedical applications. In the field of sustainability, the presentation emphasized how micro- and nanoengineering allow for resource optimization, waste reduction, self-regenerating surfaces, and technologies that decrease environmental impact.

Additionally, the main challenges of transitioning these innovations from the laboratory to practical implementation were discussed, including limitations in manufacturing, production costs, industrial scaling, and safety considerations. The speaker underscored the need to advance interdisciplinary approaches that integrate engineering, physics, chemistry, and biological sciences to accelerate the design of intelligent and sustainable solutions.