The "nanoscale" can be thought of as dimensions of less than 100 nm. At this scale, matter behaves differently than it does at the bulk scale ( > 100 nm). A metal's color, melting point, strength, conductivity, magnetism, and crystal structure can be drastically different at the nanoscale.

The identification and recognition of the unique properties of nanoscale particles has only come to light in the past decade with the development of instruments such as the high resolution scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and the transmission electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (TEM/EDX).

Over the past several years, Nanominerals Corp. (NMC) has applied this cutting-edge science to its mineral exploration ventures. Using specialized instruments and scientific investigations involving SEM/EDS, TEM/EDX, Auger Analysis, FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra Red), XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and with the recognition of unique physical and chemical properties of nanoscale minerals, NMC believes it has defined a new class of ore deposit.

For more information on the Nano Scale, read The Weird World of the Nano Scale (pdf 63 KB - Need Adobe Reader?).