Many of us know that diamonds adorn more than just jewelry today. However, you may not be aware that the rare jewels are considered valuable in modern scientific experiments, medical treatments, and research methods.Most people have no idea or knowledge of quantum mechanics and research, what its purpose is, and how we use it. Very few experts exist in this field, but it may lend opportunities for larger use and applications. These scientists have been studying diamonds at a molecular level for years, determining what future advancements the gem might provide to everyday activities.
Teams of scientific researchers in the United States and Germany have recently discovered a new use for diamond nanocrystals. These tiny diamond particles can be used as a microscope in order to see something as small as a single molecule. This means that we may soon have the ability to see single atoms, and analyze living cells at a level never achieved.
This discovery means that with diamonds, we now have the ability to explore magnetic fields of atoms. Another possibility is using the stone to create a tiny storage space for computer information. In the future, these crystals may give us the ability to create computers that are exponentially faster and smarter than today’s models.
The many possibilities of diamonds have been continually researched due to the stones’ unique physical properties. Diamond consists of a rigid, carbon atom crystal structure that prevents external forces from destroying any of its single atoms. This is why diamond is commonly referred to as the hardest substance known to man. Since all of these properties are exhibited from diamonds at normal room temperatures, we may be able to use this new technology to store an entire computer’s memory and information within a single diamond.
The nitrogen-vacancy centers, or the spaces between the carbon atoms, have also provided promise to researchers. These centers are what cause imperfections in the diamonds we wear, affecting their value and cost. New research has developed a way to use the centers to scan and detect magnetic fields at much less than one-tenth of a percent of the Earth’s magnetic fields. If the technique is improved enough to detect the spin of a single atom, it may be used for fixing gene protein structures. These are the proteins that mutate and cause cancer and other progressive illnesses.
Diamonds are also aiding in the treatment of cancer and malignant tumors. U.S. researchers have developed a patch studded with small diamond particles to aid in chemotherapy treatment. This pad is placed over the location of a tumor, and the diamonds gradually release chemotherapy drugs directly into the growth. The gradual release is hoped to avoid many ill side effects of the common treatment.
Scientists claim that the patch may also be used after the removal of a malignant tumor. This treatment method can kill any cancer cells that may be left in the area, lowering the risk of recurrences. The diamond dust used on the patches has a high molecular surface area which is ideal for drug-carrying properties.
An amateur scientist, a university student, has also used the science of carbon compression to develop his own line of custom diamond jewelry. The PhD candidate learned the process in a mechanical engineering class, and hopes to build a multi-million dollar business in the next five years.
The 23-year-old is using his diamond growing method to enter a Blueprint Competition this year. He hopes to provide his customers with large diamonds at half the price of natural diamonds, and intends to allow them to design their own rings in the future.
Formal education has paved the way for many scientists to explore the possibilities that diamonds possess. Advancing cancer and currently terminal disease treatments may eventually lead to a possible cure or preventive measure we can all find useful.
Current alternative uses for diamonds exist in the industrial world as well. For example, grinding wheels commonly used for fashioning tools from extremely hard steel and other metals are covered with tiny diamond granules. These granules are the only known substance hard enough to mold these resistant metals.
A large percentage of the diamonds that are mined today, more than 80%, are not considered useful for cutting and using in jewelry or other fashion apparel. This is due to the fact that a rather large stone is needed to sustain the cutting and faceting process when fashioning a new jewel.
Diamonds that are used for alternative purposes are called industrial grade, or bort, diamonds. These stones are valued for their extreme hardness and resiliency, as well as their heat conductivity. Diamonds are able to withstand extreme temperatures, making them ideal for grinding, cutting, polishing and sanding. These diamonds may be used for the above mentioned wheels, or drill bit tips and lasers.
With all of the scientific advancements being made with diamonds today, tomorrow they might be a bigger part of all of our lives than ever before, even if you don’t already wear them on your finger.