In the Czech Republic, 10 September is known as Nanotechnology Day, when we mark the significance that Czech nanotechnologies hold for Czech industry. The Czech Republic is, above all, one of the pioneers in the production of nanofibre materials and nanofibre products. Czech nanotechnologies were brought to wider attention chiefly by the COVID-19 pandemic, in the form of highly effective  nano face masks and nano respirators, yet nanotechnology in the Czech Republic has far more to offer. Why is 10 September Nanotechnology Day, and which Czech nanotechnology products should you know about?

Why we celebrate Nanotechnology Day on 10 September

Every year on 10 September, the Czech Republic celebrates notable Czech nano products and marks Nanotechnology Day. Some companies even offer special discounts on this day, specifically on products made using nanotechnology.

It is simple: one nanometre is 10⁻⁹ of a metre, which is why 10 September (10.9.) is Nanotechnology Day. In the USA, where the date is written the other way around (10/9 means 9 October), National Nanotechnology Day is celebrated on 9 October. 

Which Czech nanotechnologies you should know about

The Czech Republic is home to the country’s leading experts in the field of organic and inorganic nanofibres and their use in the textile industry, filtration, water purification, healthcare and energy. In the Czech Republic we are able to spin practically any substance into fibres, making it possible to produce not only nanofibres from entirely natural materials, but also, for example, edible nanofibres.

Not only does the Czech Republic have experts in the development and manufacture of hybrid spinning machines, but it is also home to a range of nanofibre products that customers can already buy today.

After nano face masks and nano respirators, the best-known Czech nanotechnologies are found in bedding with a nanofibre barrier that helps allergy sufferers, and nanofibre facial masks, which rank among the most revolutionary technologies in cosmetics of the past several decades.

Czech scientists, however, go much further: using nanoparticles, they can purify both air and water of impurities and pathogens. Using a 3D nanoprinter, we are able to create a fine scaffold for growing replacement human organs.

Another highly interesting application is the use of nanomaterials in clothing, which, thanks to nanotechnology, is far more environmentally friendly and at the same time more functional.