Wireless Communications Beyond 5 g: Teraherzwaves, Nano-Communications and the Internet of Bio-Nano-Things

Two promising technologies cosidered for the Beyond 5G networks are the terahertz and nano-technologies. Besides other possible application areas they hold the commitment to numerous new nano-scale solutions in the biomedical field. Nano-technology, as the name implies, examines the construction and design of nano-sized materials. These two interconnected emerging technologies have the potential to find application in quite many areas, one of the most importan being healthcare. This overview paper discusses the specifics of these technologies, their most important characteristics and introduces some of the trends for their application in the healthcare sector. In the first section terahertz frequency radio waves and their specific properties depending on the surrounding environment are discussed, followed by an introduction to nano-scale communications. Terahertz waves mandate the use of nano-scale antennas, which in turn brings us to the concept of nano-scale nodes. Nano-scale nodes are units that can perform the most basic functions of nano-machines and inter-nano-machine communications, which allow distributed nano-machines to perform more complex functions. Beyond 5G the development of these nano-communications is expected to lead to the emergence of new complex network systems. In the second part of this paper the paradigms of the Internet of Nano Things, molecular commnications and the Internet of Bio-Nano Things are discussed followed by details on their integration in healthcare related applications. The main goal of the article is to provide an introduction to these intriguing issues discussing advanced nano-technology enablers for Beyond 5G networks such as terahertz and molecular communications, nano-communications between nano-machines and the Internet of Bio-Nano-Things in light of health related applications.

Automated summary

This article discusses the potential applications of terahertz and nano-technologies in the Beyond 5G networks, particularly in the healthcare sector. It explores the characteristics of terahertz waves, nano-scale communications, and nano-scale nodes. The article also explores the integration of Internet of Nano Things, molecular communications, and Internet of Bio-Nano Things in healthcare related applications.