Advancing Sustainable Engineering with Nanodiamond-Reinforced Materials

Abstract

This thesis conducted a literature review to assess the current state of knowledge regarding nanodiamonds (NDs) and their applications, including their use with stimuli-responsive materials. Performing the theoretical review revealed that while NDs are valued for their exceptional properties, research on their use in sustainable and smart materials remains limited. This suggests that there may be a knowledge gap, and the topic might not have been studied enough by the scientific community to be widely known or used in real-world applications outside of theoretical test conditions. This indicates that the topic is worth investigating in this time and place. Case studies demonstrate NDs’ transformative potential in applications such as water purification, organic solar cells, and self-healing materials. These case studies highlighted nanodiamonds' ability to enhance durability, efficiency, and eco-friendliness. Insights from an interview with Carbodeon Ltd Oy provided practical perspectives on knowledge gaps, future prospects, and the commercialization of NDs. The findings underscore the need for further research and collaboration to unlock the full potential of NDs as a cornerstone for innovative and sustainable solutions in materials science.