Nanopaint is a type of covering or coating that is applied to surfaces in a manner similar to oil or water based paint. The main difference with nanopaint is that the compound contains microscopic particles that are known as nanotubes. A nanotube helps to create an effective barrier that prevents many types of external influence from interfering with the function of a given device.
The process of nanopainting is not unlike that of any type of paint project. The compound can be applied with the use of a brush or with a paint gun. Nanopaint is a liquid, so it is spread in an even coat and allowed to dry. Once in place, the nanopaint hardens into a coat that makes it possible to pass on or block electronic signals, depending on the programming of the nanotubes.
While still in the developmental stages, nanopaint is already seen as an effective means of dealing with a number of different issues. The application of nanopaint on the exterior of a building could be used to block infrared rays and thus help to keep the interior of the space cooler, while also making it possible to absorb solar energy on days that are sunny but cool. The result of this application would mean expending less energy to keep the space at a comfortable temperature regardless of the outside weather conditions.
The use of nanopaint may also provide a means of dealing with some of the simple etiquette issues that have arisen since the advent of the cell phone. Painting walls in theaters, classrooms, libraries and other public spaces where ringing phones are not acceptable with nanopaint would result in blocking the signals. This would mean less incidents of people being subjected to overhearing phone conversations when attention should be focused elsewhere.
Another anticipated function of nanopaint is to apply a clear coat to glass. This would allow the creation of opaque windowpanes and other sections of glass that would make in possible for people to see out of the glass, but prevent anyone outside the space from peeking inside.