This issue focuses on the cutting-edge innovation and sustainable development applications of nanotechnology in developing countries, with four key themes: materials science, environmental governance, and biomedical and sensing technologies. Multiple studies have investigated the innovation of nanomaterials and green synthesis processes, exhibiting improved environmental compatibility while lowering nanomaterial preparation costs, thereby injecting new vigor into sustainable technological change. These achievements demonstrate that developing countries are gaining distinct advantages in the field of nanotechnology applications through localized innovation, revealing that nanotechnology has moved from laboratories to industrial ecosystems and demonstrated strong vitality in achieving coordinated governance of the environment, energy, and health.

Together, these articles weave a picture of the future of multi-dimensional applications of nanotechnology. In the field of environment and health, composite sensors of silver nanoparticles and plant starch provide a highly sensitive solution for the detection of mercury pollution in cosmetics, while gold nanoparticles synthesized by fungi and cellulose extracted from coffee shells offer new possibilities for green antibacterial and biocompatible materials. In the medical field, nanorobots revolutionize cancer treatment with precise drug delivery, and MXene hydrogels and QCA technology promote the development of gene carriers and low-power nanocircuits. In terms of energy, carbon nanomaterials help clean hydrogen production by efficiently catalyzing water decomposition reactions, and fullerene composite membrane technology optimizes water purification performance. In materials science, the mechanical strengthening of chromium-doped glass-ceramics, the diversified synthesis strategies of graphene composites, and the innovative design of boron/tungsten carbide nanocomposites demonstrate the disruptive improvement of nanostructures on material performance. These studies not only break through the limitations of traditional technologies but also respond to the urgent needs of the world in the fields of environmental governance, medical health, energy transformation, etc., with interdisciplinary collaborative innovation, marking a milestone in the transition of nanotechnology from the laboratory to practical application and laying a scientific foundation for a sustainable future.

Highlights:Cross-disciplinary collaboration: Nanomaterials serve as a "universal tool", bridging the fields of environment, energy, and healthcare. For instance, graphene is utilized not only in gas separation membranes but also as a conductive substrate for photocatalysts; alumina nanoparticles can enhance lubrication performance, as well as increase the thermal conductivity of energy storage materials.
Technical complementarity: Photocatalytic degradation of pollutants (such as methylene blue) and adsorption methods (such as Fe₂O₃/cellulose for chromium removal) form a "dual-path" approach to pollution control; water splitting for hydrogen production and paraffin thermal storage technology jointly point towards the construction of a clean energy system.
Social-demand-driven: The articles are responses to the sustainable development goals—reducing resource waste (aluminum dross recycling), replacing toxic chemicals (plant-oil-based lubricants), addressing public health crises (nanomedicine delivery systems), etc.—highlighting the close coupling of scientific research and social demands.

These studies not only advance the frontier exploration of nanotechnology but also provide key technical support for building a future that is resource-efficient, environmentally friendly, and health-sustainable through interdisciplinary integration and green innovation.

Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in material synthesis, functionalization, and its application across diverse fields including environmental remediation, energy, and healthcare. This issue is dedicated to showcasing the latest advancements and diverse applications of nanotechnology, with a particular focus on nanocomposites, nanomaterial synthesis, and their wide-ranging applications. It aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of nanotechnology and its potential to address complex challenges across different domains.

Nowadays,  there has been a growing exploration of the wide-ranging applications and potential of polymer nanocomposites across various fields. This issue aims to publish research endeavors that offer compelling insights into the current status, progress, and promising applications of high-tech polymer nanocomposites, emphasizing their critical role in tackling modern challenges across environmental, biomedical, and material science fields.

Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative force in the food industry, offering innovative solutions to enhance food quality, safety, and sustainability. The published issue delves into the diverse applications of nanotechnology in the food sector, spanning from food preservation and packaging to improving nutritional content and addressing food safety concerns. Furthermore, it introduces the role of nanotechnology in enhancing agricultural practices and food production. This comprehensive exploration sheds light on the pivotal role of nanotechnology in shaping the future of food technology and contributing to a safer, more sustainable, and nutritionally enriched global food supply.

Nanotechnology has rapidly expanded its influence across a diverse range of fields, including the development and application of nanofibers. This issue reflects the burgeoning interest in this area, covering an array of topics such as the synthesis of nanomaterials, the preparation of nanocomposites, and the exploration of nanofiber applications in various industries. This comprehensive coverage underscores the wide-ranging impact of nanotechnology in shaping industries such as healthcare, energy, materials science, and art. As nanofiber technology continues to advance, it holds the potential to drive innovation and create new opportunities across numerous sectors.