Nanonetworks

Nanonnets is a term used to describe communications networks formed by nanoscale devices, often called nanomachines, that can sense, process information, and influence their environment. These networks are a core area within molecular communications and are closely associated with the concept of the Internet of Nano Things (IoNT). In nanonetworks, information is exchanged over links that operate at the nanoscale, using signaling methods suited to tiny devices and the media in which they reside.

Nanonetworks rely on networks of nanoscale sensors and actuators that communicate through short-range links. Signaling methods are diverse and include diffusion-based molecular communication, where information is carried by molecules or ions; biological or chemical signaling in fluid environments; optical signaling using light at the nanoscale; and, in some designs, electromagnetic communication at high frequencies such as the terahertz band. The choice of method depends on the application, the operating environment, and power constraints. Channel characteristics are highly stochastic, with diffusion noise, variable propagation times, and severe energy limitations.

Architectures for nanonetworks typically involve ad hoc, multi-hop topologies with routing and medium access control tailored to tiny devices. Routing, localization, and error control remain active research topics, and many proposed protocols are currently theoretical or simulation-based. Experimental work has demonstrated basic principles and small-scale prototypes, often using bio-inspired or chemically driven components.

Applications span healthcare and medicine (in-body sensing, targeted drug delivery), environmental monitoring, industrial sensing, and smart materials. Major challenges include fabrication of reliable nanomachines, energy harvesting and management, biocompatibility, scalability, and security and privacy concerns. The field remains largely exploratory, aiming to establish practical networking principles for nanoscale devices.