Nano Looms as the Next Pervasive Technology

Nano Looms as the Next Pervasive Technology

Science-based nanosystems could lead to the creation of fundamentally new services and devices.

FAIRFAX, Va., Dec. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Scientists working on a nanotechnology initiative that involves more than two dozen government agencies say that tiny is poised to be the titan of future technologies. The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), which also is engaging industry, academic partners and international participants, aims at moving discoveries from the laboratory into products that benefit both the military and public.

[caption id="attachment_190" align="aligncenter" width="409"] Nano Looms as the Next Pervasive Technology[/caption]

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Several NNI leaders spoke with Rita Boland, senior news editor, SIGNAL Magazine, about the potential that nanotechnology will also offer health care and commercial sectors. "It's hard for me to imagine an area that won't be impacted by nanotechnology," says Dr. Lisa Friedersdorf, senior scientist, National Nanotechnology Coordination Office. "If we manipulate matter at these size scales, it's going to be part of everything we do."

Because of the broad reach promised by nanotechnology, partnerships will be important to ensure that fundamental research matches key needs. In addition, ensuring that the next-generation work force is well trained will result in commercialization of what nanotechnology enables and help overall economic health, Friedersdorf adds.

Dr. Lew Sloter, associate director, materials and structures, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, says he could see a period in which the military will intensively exploit the understanding of nanoscale phenomena, nanoprocesses and nanomaterials for more specific defense applications, such as flexible display devices. Nanotechnology also could serve as a catalyst in energetic materials, an area in which the military has highly unusual needs, he points out. Safer explosives, which release energy rather than a kinetic force, could be better controlled if using nanoparticulate powers, for example.

Read this and other fascinating articles about how advances in nanotechnology will transform the world in the next 10 to 15 years in the December 2013 issue of SIGNAL Magazine online.

SIGNAL Magazine is the official publication of AFCEA International.

Established in 1946, AFCEA is a non-profit organization serving its members by providing a forum for the ethical exchange of information and dedicated to increasing knowledge through the exploration of issues relevant to its members in information technology, communications and electronics for the defense, homeland security and intelligence communities.

SOURCE AFCEA International

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New Nanotechnology Fully Illustrated Children Books

New Nanotechnology Fully Illustrated Children Books

METCO Global releases new series of nanotechnology children books by Mark Tomassoni to educate and entertain young readers about nanotechnology

PRLog (Press Release) - Sep. 26, 2013 - TROY, N.Y. -- New Shelves Distribution is proud to announce that METCO Global has signed with NSD for worldwide distribution of a new series of nanotechnology books for children by author Mark Tomassoni marketed as Nanobots for Kids!  Nanotechnology involves building/manipulating materials at the molecular and atomic levels - the future here and now, today.

This exciting new series focuses on two nanotechnology characters, Nano and Nana, who apply unique nanotechnology skills to overcome many of today's ills and make the world a better place. As Tomassoni said, "Nano and Nana encounter a full range of strange and powerful forces in remote areas of the nanoworld.  They apply their vast powers of super computing, genomics, biomechanics, and artificial intelligence to overcome illnesses, pollution, starvation, and intergalactic communication."

[caption id="attachment_176" align="aligncenter" width="480"] New Nanotechnology Fully Illustrated Children Books[/caption]



The series contains the following titles:

Bots Escape a Black Hole  (ISBN:  978-0-9890303-1-1, $9.95)  Nano and Nana tell scientists to send nanobots to outer space since they are so economical and don’t need to eat or sleep.  They explore the solar system and visit nearby stars in our Milky Way galaxy.  But when a dangerous black hole seeks to swallow the bots, Nano applies quick thinking to ward off the evil black hole.

Bots to the Rescue  (ISBN:  978-0-9890303-3-5, $9.95)  Nano and Nana help children worldwide overcome illness, obtain good food and water, and help bring about peace.  Even though these are all good works, Nano and Nana are not sure they had achieved something really special.  But then a great opportunity presents itself for the bot to finally get a chance to help children achieve that something “special enough.”

Red, White and Blue Bots   (ISBN:  978-0-9890303-2-8, $9.95)  In the future, all the beautiful Washington, DC buildings will be covered with a special nanobot paint that can change colors through computer commands.  One day, the mean nanobot, McHugh, decides it’s time to change the nanopaint from white to many different colors.  The citizens become upset and want the buildings put back to white. But it was not as easy as the citizens think until Nano and Nana come to the rescue.

Teach Me About Bots  (ISBN:  978-0-9890303-4-2, $9.95)  Nano and Nana are used throughout the world in every imaginable aspect of life, from food, to clothing, to medicine, to underground utilities.  Children around the world are anxious to learn more about these microscopic electro/mechanical creatures.  This book shows how Ms. Frances McNaught educates girls and boys about these fascinating scientific developments reaching all our daily lives.

What Did That Bot Say?  (ISBN:  978-0-9890303-5-9, $9.95)  In the future, Nano and Nana will be found throughout our homes, and around the world. Children and adults will be excited to learn more about how nanotechnology will bring about changes in daily routine.  This book gives young readers a head-start.

Nano Goes Golfing  (ISBN:  978-0-9890303-0-4, $9.95)  Duffer McHugh loves his golf game but his shots go left and right and never straight to the hole.  Read this story to see how Nano comes to the aid of McHugh and helps create a new game similar to golf but called Bot-Golf that drives everyone’s shots perfectly straight and amazingly improves McHugh’s score overnight.

Nanotechnology points to the future for all humans.  Tomassoni's goal is to have some fun with this fascinating revolution and inspire readers to be better prepared.  Especially as children become more technology-fluent, the demand grows each day for an easy to understand series of books explaining how nanotechnology will be used in homes, medicine, food, fashion, clothing, cars, buildings, telecommunication, movies, music, media, publishing, outer space, sports, furniture, etc.

Mark Tomassoni worked in the U.S. and internationally providing facilities, logistics, engineering, construction, and security services before writing nanotechnology books for children.  He saw a need for light-hearted poetic and fully illustrated books that would educate and entertain readers of all ages about benefits and opportunities of nanotechnology, one of the 21st century’s most important technological advancements.  Though written from a futurist perspective, each book presents an insightful yet humorous look into how nanotechnology is evolving and what we may be able to expect in years to come.

To arrange an interview with the author, or to request a review copy, contact Nicole Riley at New Shelves Distribution – nicole@newshelves.com, (518) 261-1300.

Five Ways Nanomanufacturing Improves Manufacturing Today

SME’s NanoManufacturing Conference and Exhibits, March 27-28, Boston, will highlight the current and near-term applications of nanotechnology and how they are transforming manufacturing.

Dearborn, MI (PRWEB) January 17, 2012

Nanomanufacturing is no longer the next frontier. It’s in action today, and it is improving products and processes and saving manufacturers money along the way.

This March, nanomanufacturing experts will be gathering in Boston to share their knowledge with other manufacturing professionals at the NanoManufacturing Conference and Exhibits organized by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. In addition to discussions on mid- to long-term applications of this smallest of technologies, there will be information on how it is already impacting the industry as evidenced in these five ways.

1)    Materials – Nanotechnology is creating exceptionally light, yet extremely tough, materials, such as graphene. Nano composites are uniquely customizable to adhere to other materials. They are currently used in golf clubs and tennis rackets, with expectations that they will transform the aerospace, defense and transportation industries in the not-too-distant future.

2)    Coatings – Nanotechnology is enabling coatings to have numerous beneficial properties that are proving very marketable. Nanocoatings are known to be a thermal barrier, flame retardant, ultraviolet resistance, self and easy cleaning, wear resistant, friction reducing, corrosion resistant, anti-scratch resistance, antibacterial and anti-fingerprint. They can even be self healing. Nanocoatings are used in myriad industries including automotive, defense, household cleaners, construction and exterior protection, with a very promising future in many more fields.

3)    Energy Collection and Storage – Surface-to-volume ratios give nano particles most of their power. For example, a golf ball by volume equals the surface of a playing card. That same golf ball by nano particles has a surface area equivalent to four football fields. These particles use light more efficiently which is improving the efficiency and cost of solar panels.

4)    Lighting – Quantum dots are nanoparticles of a semiconductor material with unique optical and electrical properties. A manufacturer can precisely control the size of a quantum dot to determine the color of light emitted. In addition to enabling the manufacturing of LED lights, quantum dots are used in electroluminescent displays and solid-state lighting.

5)    Manufacturing Processes – Self-assembly is a branch of nanotechnology in which objects, devices and systems form structures without external prodding. Biological systems use self-assembly to construct various molecules and structures. Think of it as LEGOS® that assemble themselves. This process is currently being used in computer chips, and has potential benefits for water purification, sanitation, agriculture, alternative energy and medicine.

“More than 1,300 products have already made it to market using nanotechnology, with many more in the pipeline,” said Lauralyn McDaniel, the conference manager. “This conference provides an opportunity for manufacturers from almost any industry to either be introduced to nanomanufacturing or discover the latest advances in the technology.”

The NanoManufacturing conference is co-located with the MicroManufacturing Conference and Exhibits. Both events have been designed based on feedback attendees have given that the most valuable part of attending an SME conference is the people they meet and the resources they gain. To encourage the synchronistic collaboration, the sessions are shorter and breaks are longer, the exhibits have been arranged “in the round” to promote discussion, and the Conversation Connection areas are ideal for having in-depth conversations with colleagues. Attendees of either conference can go back and forth between the two and tailor this event to their own interests and needs.

The NanoManufacturing Conference sessions cover a broad range of topics including, metrology because “if you can’t measure it, you can’t make it,” nanostructure manufacturing techniques, the future applications of graphene in every day products, occupational and environmental health and safety concerns and antimicrobial technologies for medical devices.

Additionally, a panel of nanomanufacturing leaders will address moving from the research and development phase and prototyping to the commercialization phase and volume production. The event concludes with the annual peek into the nanocrystal ball in an attempt to predict what the next five years will bring to nanotechnology.

For those who are new to the technology, need a refresher or just want to explore the topic in more depth, pre-conference workshops and tours to iRobot® and the Center for High-rate Nanomanusturing/Kostas Nanomanufacturing Research Center are also available.

For more information, visit http://www.sme.org/nanomanufacturing or for the MicroManufacturing Conference and Exihibition, visit http://www.sme.org/micro.

About SME:
The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) is the premier source for manufacturing knowledge, education and networking. Through its many programs, events, magazines, publications and online training division, Tooling U, SME connects manufacturing practitioners to each other, to the latest technologies and to the most up-to-date manufacturing processes. SME has members around the world and is supported by a network of chapters and technical communities. A 501(c)3 organization, SME is a leader in manufacturing workforce development issues, working with industry, academic and government partners to support the current and future skilled workforce.

Source: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/1/prweb9112517.htm

Nanotechnology : The Science of the Small

Nanotechnology - The Science of the Small

By Arthur Chip Card

Could the local water works be harnessed to fuel your car? Scientists think they just may. Researchers at Sandia National Labs intend to complete development of a prototype solar cell that will convert plain water into combustible fuel! They have already demonstrated concept feasibility. Such cells, along with water, could replace oil as an automotive fuel of choice. Is this for real? How is it possible?

Water is number one fighting fires. But what if we break it down into its component parts? You remember science class, right? That's where they taught us water is made up of 2 atoms of hydrogen combined with a single atom of oxygen. Hydrogen, the most abundant element on earth, is highly explosive. Oxygen is necessary for any type of combustion. In their singular states the components of water are a burning recipe for fuel.

Sandia scientists have also developed a robot that can move, pick up, and drop a payload. Not a big deal you say? What if I told you that 20 of these androids can stand side-by-side across the width (not length) of a human hair; impressed now? Called 'motor proteins' these soldiers can be designed to seek each other out and self-assemble in predictable patterns. Nature self-assembles everything in predictable patterns, both flora and fauna. We are just now beginning to learn mother's secrets.

THE SCIENCE OF THE SMALL

Hail the world of Nano-technology, the science of the small. You'll be hearing this word "nano" a lot. From the Greek word for dwarf, you just can't get any smaller. How small? Well, it would take 80,000 nano-meters to equal the width of that human hair we just discussed. Now that's small.

This science allows us to manipulate at the atomic level for the first time.

Re-arrange the atoms of water, dirt and air, and we can create rice, or corn. If we re-arrange the atoms of coal, we can create diamonds. Or should I say, this is being done, now! Boston based Apollo Diamonds creates what it calls 'cultured diamonds' that are virtually "indistinguishable" from mined diamonds. They are real. Jewelers can't tell the difference!

Diamonds are a $60 billion industry annually. This technology promises to lower the price of diamonds by at least a third initially. What implications does this have for the tightly held global diamond trade? Can gold be far behind? And will this have implications for currency exchange?

Amazingly a survey of U.S. adults found more than half confessing no knowledge of nanotechnology at all. Only 16% of those surveyed claim "some" familiarity with the topic. Observers of nanotechnology disagree as to whether or not this is a single industry. But none disagree on the effect it will ultimately have on our lives, indeed on the very length of our lives.

THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH?

Just as we now have synthetic motor oils, soon we will be able to create synthetic red and white blood cells, even replacements for ailing organs.

The implications for medicine and for life are enormous. Nanotechnology and medicine will be one and the same. And we may not have long to wait. In 2003, an NYU professor shared a top ten list of hurdles nanotechnology would have to surmount to be fully viable. In just the past three years, three of these ten have been conquered.

Some of the greatest potential lies in gene therapy. Nano-genes will replace diseased ones with genetically correct copies eliminating genetic based diseases. Eventually we can even reverse the effects of cell damage attributed to aging. This could increase human life expectancy tenfold! Do you think this is science fiction? Read on!

The Methuselah Foundation encourages research into the causes and control of aging. They award prizes for research in this area. Transgenic mice have already been developed to possess higher than usual levels of the antioxidant enzyme 'catalase.' Cells employ catalase to eliminate free radicals which cause cell damage resulting in aging, as well as cancers. The genetically corrected mice have life spans 20% longer than their control mice brethren. Imagine adding 15 or 20 healthy years to your life!

Nano-bacteria could clear blood-borne infections in minutes rather than the weeks it takes for antibiotics. Scientists at NEC are reportedly developing a fast 'bio-nano' chip to conduct a complete blood analysis in little more than 60 minutes. (Today's med labs utilizing gel blocks take many more hours). Their chip recognizes proteins known to be present before a disease manifests itself. These diagnostic nano-grains bind with targeted proteins, causing an intended signal reaction. If trials go well, they'll be in use within 5 years. Comprehensive health assessments utilizing this nano-technology could cost as little as $100.

Chemotherapy involves poisoning a patient's body with toxic medication in a race to kill cancer cells before the cancer kills the patient. Serious side effects come from the solutions used to dilute the cancer killing agents. Nano-medicines have very high surface to volume ratios, resulting in far fewer and milder side effects. Greater tolerance for these nano-oncologics allow for dense doses delivered at tighter intervals.

Nobel Prize winning chemist Rick Smalley (1943-2005) was fond of posing the question, "Am I living in the last generation to die of cancer, or the first generation to be saved by nanotechnology?" We're that close!

SUPER COMPUTERS

Nano-materials promise computers running 200 times faster than today's swiftest chips. Researchers at the University of Illinois have already fabricated such nano-processors. Employing current technology a micro-chip grows more crowded to run at ever faster speeds, the heat generated threatens to melt the entire silicon based circuit.

The ability to immediately absorb and process vast amounts of data creates opportunities only imaginable previously: significant increases in reaction times for defense systems; the allocation of road/air space for traffic management; even preventing autos from colliding with each other.

MATERIALS FIRST

While the greatest ultimate impact comes from the fields of medicine and biology, it is in materials and chemicals that the first fruits are being picked. Everything can be made better through restructuring, or nano-structuring: lighter, stronger, cheaper. Materials that don't exist can be created with new and unique properties. As the initial cost of these materials falls, broader uses will naturally result.

Tennis rackets and golf clubs on the market today from both Wilson and Babolat are now twice as strong. Motorola is reportedly developing a 40" HDTV flat screen using nano-materials that will retail for only $400. Rechargeable batteries that take only one minute to regain 80% capacity have been invented by Toshiba. The unique properties of the nano-materials used rapidly accept the charge without any deterioration to the electrode. A planned launch will target hybrid autos. But this technology applies equally to your cell phone and laptop. How long does it take to recharge these now?

In the nanotech world, if you can imagine it, you can create it: automotive panels that won't dent; paints that won't scratch, peel, or fade; sunscreens that truly are; stain-proof fabrics that actually change shade for body temperature control; odorless disposable diapers; fire-proof building materials. The future is bright indeed.

INVESTORS GUN SHY

More than 30 nations have provided seed funding to ensure their people aren't left behind. The U.S. Nanotechnology Initiative was funded to the tune of $800 million in 2004 alone. The federal allocation is now over $1 billion annually. Forward looking states are jockeying to lure Nano-companies, carroting of course with tax breaks.

Despite all this opportunity, investors still reeling from the dot-com days, are sticking to the sidelines, 'cept some far sighted venture capitalists. Smelling potential, private investment flows are now three times greater than the federal outlay.

In the dot-com days all it took to offer an IPO was a desk top PC and a carefully worded business plan determined to take advantage of the "information synergies paradigm." Not so with nanotechnology. This requires real multi-discipline scientific know how from extensive research and testing. These inventions and innovations are clearly patentable. To date some 3,800 patents have been granted with another 1,700 pending. No college dorm room operations here.

As you can imagine the potential for investors in the right places are colossal. But be careful, some companies are adding 'nano' to their name whether they have anything to do with it or not. Where the money is, so too will be the tricksters.

Arthur "Chip" Card is a Marketing Strategist with more than 20 years experience marketing financial services and intangibles. He has taught Marketing Management and Quantitative Methods at a Jesuit College, and earned his Marketing MBA at Boston College. His marketing articles have appeared in regional, national, and international business journals. He can be reached by email at: a.card@comcast.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arthur_Chip_Card
http://EzineArticles.com/?Nanotechnology---The-Science-of-the-Small&id=853149

Nanotechnology and Cancer

Nanotechnology and Cancer

By Parmu Malika

Nanotechnology is the study and creation of structures at a molecular level; the engineering of complex machines at the level of molecules, which can only be measured in nanometers, one nanometer being about a billionth of one meter. To illustrate, the size of one strand of human hair is between 50,000 and 100,000 nanometers.

Research in the field of nanotechnology has been growing by leaps and bounds over the past few years, though the technology is still only in its nascent stage. It has found usage in every possible field including electronics, power generation and biomedical devices. The possible applications of nanoscale devices in the field of medicine are mind-boggling and make one wonder if they are caught in the middle of a science fiction movie. Let us explore the possibilities opened up by nanotechnology in one particular aspect of the vast field of medicine, namely, the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Why Nanotechnology in Cancer?

As discussed before, nanoscale devices can only be measured at the molecular level; they are in fact, between a hundred to ten thousand times smaller than an average cell in the human body. Their size can be compared to naturally occurring molecules such as enzymes, which are known as biomolecules. To illustrate, the size of hemoglobin, the molecule that is responsible for delivering oxygen to the red blood cells in our body, is around 5 nm in diameter.

Nanoscale devices that measure less than 50 nm are small enough to enter most of the cells in the human body, while those smaller than 20 nm can move in and out of blood vessels. Due to their extremely small size that allows them to move in and out of various areas of the human body, nanoscale devices are capable of effortlessly interacting with various biomolecules that exist on the surface of, as well as inside the cells. And, since all biological processes, most importantly those that have been found to lead to various types of cancer, occur inside cells at a nanoscale level, nanotechnology is equipping cancer researchers with incredible new ways to detect and deliver treatment for cancer that were unimaginable just a few years ago.

The Possibilities

Nanotechnology is aiding the development of various nanoscale devices that can help bring a radical change in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It is helping to develop imaging agents and other diagnostic tools that can help accurately pinpoint the development of cancer at the earliest possible stage. It can lead to the development of nano-agents that are capable of scrutinizing changes in the molecular level and help in the prevention of malignancy of pre-cancerous cells.

Nano systems that can offer real-time assessment of the efficacy of treatment procedures such as surgery, thereby assuring accelerated and accurate clinical translation are also being researched upon. Another hot area of nano research is the development of multifunctional nano devices that are capable of overcoming biological barriers and gaining direct access to cancer cells and the surrounding tissues that aid in the development of cancer to deliver multiple therapeutic agents for efficient and targeted treatment. Research is also on to develop suitable nano techniques that will assist in the management of the adverse symptoms of cancer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Parmu_Malika
http://EzineArticles.com/?Nanotechnology-and-Cancer&id=6831506

Excellence of Nanotechnology varied uses

Excellence of Nanotechnology, Protective coatings, Shower Enclosures

Author: nathansyngrem

Nanotechnology has varied uses. The one we shall be talking about in this article is the Nanotechnology that is used to protect and act as a shield for glass, tiles, porcelain, granite and most silica-based surfaces. With Nanotechnology the surface becomes much cleaner, stronger in terms of oil, water, bacteria repellent and other contaminants. Nanotechnology makes the surface scratch resistant and impact resistant. Through Nanotechnology discoveries at molecular scale are made to work for the benefit and betterment. Right from the very beginning, Nanotechnology has gained momentum for the incredible output and results. With the growing research and experiments the molecular world of Nanotechnology is advancing speedily.

Different companies offer the service of Nanotechnology. Choose your service provider as per the work they have done and the success rate of the company. The offering must way ahead of other competitors and should specifically be crafted to meet the dynamic requirements of clients and customers. Nanotechnology acts as a protection and improves the overall performance of the object. It also increases the life of the object by functioning as a guard.

Nanotechnology offers Protective Coatings that works as a shield and guard the surface from anything that can affect the normal functioning of the element. Protective Coatings can be applied to end number of items and products. The foremost functionality of Protective Coatings is to restore and improve the condition of the product for a prolonged period of time. The items with Protective coatings last longer than the ones without any coating.

Protective Coatings offered by nanotechnology also ensure a smooth and shining finish that also provides durability, reliability and safety. Pick the one that offers the most advanced Protective Coatings that guarantee long-lasting results. Protect your products and valuable items with our Protective Coatings and enjoy the power pact performance of your valued product for a very long time and invest in the right solution at affordable pricing.

Shower Enclosures is also provided by various companies that are very easy to clean with the help of single application lasting for year. Forget the daily Shower Enclosures cleaning and just splash plain water and get the Shower Enclosures as clean and sparkling as ever. Now stop worrying and enjoy the benefits of crystal clear Shower Enclosures.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/industrial-articles/excellence-of-nanotechnology-protective-coatings-shower-enclosures-2311049.html

About the Author

I have written many articles. But my field of interest is to write for the practical application practiced in industries for manufacturing products. I have written article on Protective coatings and Shower Enclosures.

Nathan Syngrem
1046 Calle Recodo, Suite F San Clemente, California 92673, USA.

Future of Nanotechnology in Electronics

The Future of Nanotechnology - Micro Electronics

Author: Jennifer T. Mcdonough

Nanotechnology is the technology of the future it will provide new ways of manufacturing products so that products will be smaller but more powerful.  According to NNS, 'Nanotechnology deals with objects smaller than 100 nanometers, a nanometer being 1 billionth of a meter.  For perspective, consider that the average human hair is 100,000 nanometers wide.  The aim of nanotech scientists is no less than to manipulate matter, atom by atom, into new materials, drugs, devices, even life forms'(NNS, 2004).  This explanation of nanotechnology explains exactly how small objects can be made.  In the future, this advancing technology will change the size of manufactured components so that objects will be smaller and more manageable. However, the website ‘Nanotechnology Now' was created to provide the latest information regarding nanotechnology.  They gave their own explanation on how nanotechnology can be used to construct smaller products.  According to Nanotechnology NOW, 'Nanotechnology is actually a multitude of rapidly emerging technologies, based upon the scaling down of existing technologies to the next level of precision and miniaturization' (Nanotechnology Now, 1999-2004).  With this advancing technology it will be possible to reconstruct exiting products into smaller more manageable objects.  For example, with the use nanotechnology it could be possible to transform desktop computers into computers that are the size of a watch but with more operating capacity and they will also last longer than current computers.  According to ‘Nanotechnology Now', 'Computers with the capabilities of current workstations will be the size of a grain of sand and will be able to operate for decades with the equivalent of a single wristwatch battery' (Nanotechnology Now, 1999-2004).  This technology advancement will make computers more abundant, cheaper to manufacture, faster, and smaller.

With nanotechnology cell phones are now of being uses as a telephone, television, and video camera that is small enough to carry in your pocket.   The Center for Responsible Nanotechnology supports this theory they state, 'Nanotechnology will offer the ability to construct a wide range of large objects inexpensively and with atomic precision.  It will go beyond materials and devices to complex systems of molecular machines, inspired by—but in some ways superior to—those found in nature'(Canter for Responsible Nanotechnology, 2002-2004). This technology will change the way all products are manufactured and used.  Since they will be smaller, they will be cheaper and required less resources and labor.  In addition, nanotechnology will also make products less expensive and more abundant and this will benefit society.

With the development of nanotechnology it will be possible to create new and better products that will take up less space and operate on a level that will exceed any current existing product.  Nanotechnology will change the capabilities of biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, computer science and mathematics.  For example, Cloning is a result of the advancement of nanotechnology.  However, since products will be made much smaller, there are many concern regarding nanotechnology such as, miniature bomb that will be undetected and able to do more damage that current bombs.  Despite these concerns, nanotechnology will change the way people interact in the world.  For example, cellular phone could be made into the size of a dime so that people will be able to attach these phones to their collars.  Another future event that could take place regarding nanotechnology is that it could soon be possible to create a car engine that is smaller than the tip of your finger but is able to last 10 times longer that current car engines, and it will cost less to produce making car less expensive. Nanotechnology is the technology of the future and will change the way products are made so that they are smaller are more manageable to handle.  Nanotechnology will be a huge advancement in society because this technology will reduce the resource and time needed to create certain products.  As a result, people will be able to benefit from this technology because products will be cheaper.

Reference
Newhouse News Service (NNS) Scientists, Environmentalists Spar Over Nanotechnology, Retrieved February 17, 2004 from: http://www.newhouse.com/archive/story1a090402.html

Nanotechnology Now (1999-2004)
Retrieved February 17 2004 from: http://nanotech-now.com/basics.htm

Canter for Responsible Nanotechnology (2002-2004) Retrieved February 17 2004 from: http://www.crnano.org/whatis.htm

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/information-technology-articles/the-future-of-nanotechnology-micro-electronics-3994167.html

About the Author

I grew up on a farm (which my parents still own) in Richmond, Virginia), so I am a lover of animals and the country life. When I was 19, I went off to college to pursue my Bachelors Degree in Communication with a minor in Business at Georgetown University in Washington D.C.Four years later I obtained my degree (after much studying and lots of patients). After school I took a 2 year internship with a well known Broadcasting Company.  After this internship was over,  I move backed home to Virginia... missing the country life, and have been here ever since : - )

I consider myself very spiritual and a open minded person.  I love meditating and entertain my mind with the mystical side of life. In my leisure time I like knitting, horseback riding gardening, blogging, crystal digging, and reading facilitation book. One book I recently read that truly opened my eyes was. 'The Power of Your Subconscious Mind' by Joseph Murphy.  This is a must read for anyone who want to truly change their life for the best.  I also enjoy writing relevant information on fascinating subjects, which has become a career and hobby.

Nanotechnology: A Boon For Today And Its Innovations For Tomorrow's World

Author:shiva

Nanotechnology emerged by the implementation of nanoscience-which is the science of building materials and devices using single atoms and molecules .Thus knowledge and understanding of behavior and phenomena of the nanoscale world is nanoscience and when we study, observe, experiment and build materials from the individual atoms and molecules (nanoscale things) we come up with a technology termed as nanotechnology.

It has been already been observed that everything is made up of molecules which in turn are made up of atoms, now customization at these levels to get a useful product is what nanotechnology is helping us achieve.

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WHAT ACTUALLY IS NANOTECHNOLOGY ALL ABOUT?

Nanotechnology has been understood by different scientists in different way and so we can have many definition if this technology by all intimately means to say only one thing that nanotechnology is really a boon and a gift which can be utilized in different field to given tremendous results .Nanoscience is an interdisciplinary subject and is used in many field for creating tremendous results

In early years When K. Eric Drexler popularized the word ‘nanotechnology', he was talking about building machines on the scale of molecules, a few nanometers wide—motors, robot arms, and even whole computers, far smaller than a cell. Thus nanotechnology evolution was also categorized in four generations viz-‘Passive nanostructures', Active Nanostructures', 'Systems of nanosystems' and ‘Molecular nanostructures'.

Fig -2 www.h20technologies.com

The prefix ‘nano' in both science and technology refers to the unit of 10-9 which means really small. It has been observed in research that at nanoscale (10-9m),the physical, chemical & biological properties of material differ in fundamental and valuable ways from the properties of individual atoms and molecules of bulk matter. Materials at nanoscale can behave very differently from when they are in larger form. Nanomaterials can be stronger or lighter, or conduct heat or electricity in a different way. Moreover, by changing just the molecular structure of a material it is even possible to control fundamental properties of materials like their melting temperature, magnetic properties, charge capacity and even colors without changing their chemical compositions; particles of gold can appear red or blue, depending on their size. Building something out of these materials is difficult but have tremendous results. Although nonmaterial processes occur at the nano scale level but the objects and result scan be much larger.

APPLICATION AREAS OF NANOTECHNOLOGIES-

Nanotechnology is not just a concept of material science but it has implementations of physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, mechanical and electrical engineering. Nanotechnology is distinguished by its interdisciplinary nature. Lot of work has already been done in nanotechnology field and there is tremendous scope for this technology in future. Scientists have already applied this technology in various fields and it holds many inventions for future. Let us have a look what all nanotechnology has in its shell.

• Natural nanotechnology-

Nanotechnology appears naturally without intervention of human beings. For e.g.-Chloroplast in plant cells.

• Nanotechnology in IT & Electronics-

Nanotechnology has proved to be a miracle in these fields as it is used in miniaturization of devices in the semiconductor industry. This technology holds major implications in the field of computers. For e.g.-Nanochips in computers .Nanotechnology offers the tools to understand / transform the silicon technology. It is the major reason of improvement in display screens and electronic devices. (Replacements of CRT by electron-producing Carbon Nanotubes).High resolution Recordable Compact Discs (CD-R) with progressive scans are built with nanotechnology that displays the best in picture quality. And only because of nanotechnology, nonvolatile random access memory cards have been designed that are almost 10 times better as compared to similarly sized regular RAM. Wireless laser mouse have also been designed with nanotechnology. This mouse is perfect for medical offices, libraries, and schools as well as for mobile professionals, gamers, and desktop users. As there is nano coating in the mouse it contains antimicrobial properties, which protect the mouse from bacteria.[4]Nano robotics, is the technology of creating machines at or close to microscopic scale of nanometers. Researchers all over the world are working to come up with the best designs to actually build these nanocomputers(DNA & Quantum computers). Demand for better surface finish and accuracy has been increasing rapidly in recent years. Nano - surface finish has become an important parameter in the semiconductor industry[5].

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  Chemical Nanotechnology-

  
  

It is not a new field as many chemical processes use it. Chemical catalysts coating, alloys, abrasives and glues are typical examples chemical nanotechnology.

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  Nanobiotechnology & Biomedical nanotechnology-

  
  

This technology studies element exists in nature to produce new devices. In life sciences this technology is used in nanocells e.g.: 'Globblebot'- an artificial white blood cell. It is used in biomedicines, diagnosis & therapy of cancer. For e.g.-Nanotubes,nano medicines and nanogels. Tiny machines(nano robots) in your body can be used  to cure cancer as cancer cells can be killed without painful side effects of chemotherapy. Thus we can now destroy tumors without killing healthy cells at the same time. Using nanotechnology in biometric sensors for medical therapies is now possible only because of nanotechnology. Carbon tubes are already helping to deliver drugs. Scientists have microscopic robots floating in our blood streams fighting against cancer cells, AIDS HIV virus, genetic disorders or even ageing. Nanotechnology has revolutionise the pharmaceutical industry by changing the ways drugs are produced and delivered.

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  Nanotechnology In space –

  
  

There is a tremendous improvement in shuttles & Satellites using ‘Nano satellites\' -Biosensors (as a solution to Columbia shuttle tragedy & Fabrication to space shuttle material that can withstand 1000 degree centigrade.)Nano foods (food which can be preserved without refrigeration & protection from bacteria and diseases),Space suites and Space Elevator 'Climbing the Sky' -Ultra high strength materials allow tower to be built into space ! is only a new step of nanotechnology.

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  Nanotechnology and Defense-

  
  

Nanotechnology is now being used in defense to make more secure, lighter and accurate sensors. It is a promise from nanotechnology that the weapons will improve as the conventional material can be replaced with more rigid & lighter material using this technology.

NANOTECHNOLOGY IN MARKET-TODAY AND PROMISES FOR TOMMORROW

Currently more than 370 products on the market are utilizing nanotechnology.  These range from car tires and sports equipment to electronics, clothing with stain-resistant fibers and cosmetics.

Nanotechnology is used in  - The cars we drive, The food we eat, the clothes we wear-there are jackets available in the market which will keep us cool in summers and warm in winters, The sunscreens we use-which use nano sized zinc oxide particles to absorb and reflect UV rays which makes lotions transparent and smooth and non-sticky which will therefore make it more appealing to the consumer. We have Anti-ageing creams and the food shortly will be available that contain chemicals which are said to prevent wrinkles by promoting skin cell regrowth, Nano health supplements are also available -such as antioxidants. In sports, nanotechnology is used in Tennis balls, which are coated with nano sized material which make them more lighter and bouncy as molecular barrier is formed by the tiny particles that trap air molecules making the balls extra bouncy. Self-cleaning windows will be in the market soon, which are coated with a material, which has unique chemical properties. When the sun shines on these windows, a chemical reaction is triggered which breaks down dirt. Rain, instead of forming droplets, will spread evenly over the panel and wash away the broken down dirt. (as they are photocatalytic and hydrophilic).We have Washing Machines available e.g. Samsung Silver care which exhibits bacterial growth on the clothes it washes. Contact lenses are being developed that let you check your blood sugar by looking in a mirror. Intelligent nano coating for windows will serve as protector that reflect solar heat in the summer and transmit it in winter. Automobiles fuel lines are available in the market which are made up of carbon nano tubes which inhibits static electricity and reduce the risk of explosion.

In future you might be reading on electronic folded paper, according to an American Scientists, build from thousands of Carbon nanotubes. Researchers all over the world are working to come up with the best practices and results using this amazing technology and making our daily lives easy and interesting. Additional applications are underway in the areas of medical diagnostics and treatment, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental protection (transformation of wastage into useful products), energy production, storage and lightning, manufacturing and product design.

Scientists believe that it is possible to build supercomputers that can replicate human brains or to develop nanotechnology that can lead to an implantable chip for interfacing with neurons and other types of cellular networks.[6]

Nanotechnology has contributed towards the betterment of  human lives and the environment as reduction in production of waste as now it is not impossible to have devices that can convert house hold waste into fresh food, diamond rings or antique works of art. Thus a pollution free environment can be created

RISKS OF THE BOON-A CONTROVERSAL ISSUE!!

We have already seen the benefits of nano structuring. But to fully utilize these materials we should be cautious while using and a defined framework should be used to maximize the potentials of nanotechnology. Due to the high surface area the reactivity of the materials, get increased which can create risks to the health and environment. Ultra fine particals can catalyze chemical reactions in the body. Carbon nanotubes can cause infections-gallium & arsenic is used in it, which could prove toxic.They could easily cross blood brain barrier(a membrane that protects the brain  from harmful chemical in blood stream. Changes in proteins due to the presence of nano particles in the blood stream could trigger dangerous effects like blood clotting.)

Apart from the health risks we have the risks associated with our social environment also like ‘Grey-goo scenario' proposed by Eric Drexler, where a synthetic nano-size device replaces all organic material. This scenario specifies that there will ‘Two Races of People'-as the people who use nano technology products such as cosmetics etc. will feel superior to those who are not using it.Is this scenario good for the society. Apart from this fact we should observe a question -Are More powerful weapons good ? and What about the manufacturing jobs?

We don't have answers to these questions, but several organizations are urging nanoscientists to consider these implications now, before it becomes too late.

Whether we actually need to answer all of these questions is a matter of debate. Many experts think that concerns like ‘Grey goo' and ‘Trans-humans' are at best premature, and probably unnecessary. Even so, nanotechnology will definitely continue to impact us as we learn more about the enormous potential of the nanoscale and nano-stucturing.

CONCLUSION

It can be said very confidently that nanotechnology is considered as the key technology of the 21st century. It has offered and will offer many solutions to many current problems by means of smaller, lighter, faster and better performing materials, components and systems. Nanotechnology has opened up new market opportunities and has also made essential contributions to environmental and health protection. Nanotechnology with all its challenges and opportunities will become a part of our future. Besides all risks and confusions, the researchers are optimistic for the products based upon this technology

I have no doubt in saying that Nanotechnology is slowly but steadily ushering in the new industrial revolution.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/nanotechnology-a-boon-for-today-and-its-innovations-for-tomorrows-world-4840043.html

About the Author

This article has been written by Shiva Sharam . She is an Assistant Professor, Department of PGDM(IT), Accurate Institute of Management and technology, Greater Noida.

Nanotechnology is begining to improve our everyday lives – part 2

NanoSense 2 - how Nanotechnology is improving our everyday lives

Author: Prof. Benfield

Continuing our Fantastic Voyage

In the first of these brief articles the sci-fi film Fantastic Voyage of 40 years ago was seen emerging as today's scientific discipline 'Nanotechnology'.

Having considered some of the incredible ways that medical science is applying the knowledge of sub-molecular changes to deliver health benefits, this second part in the series links these with materials science and our everyday environments. .

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Citing the development work of Greek scientist Dr Ioannis Arabatzis, it takes a look at some of the products produced by his company, Nanophos SA. Winner of the Gates' foundations' international prize for commercializing scientific research, his efforts to deliver practical benefits to everyday situations through technical excellence and inventiveness are seen as exemplary.

(E)merging building science

Despite the arguments over when and if nanotechnology and in particular nanobots will become available, as the previous article illustrates this is happening. Perhaps this is all the more so in nonmedical areas, which are subject to all sorts of test before they can be applied. This is particularly so in the area of Building Science, which is able to apply the same technology and techniques, but with far fewer restrictions and therefore faster market deliverability.

Based in Greece, 'Nanophos SA' is one company already delivering the benefits of Nanotechnology to address everyday problems in and around the home and other buildings to improve our lives.

Founded by scientist Dr Ioannis Arabatzis, Nanophos SA has developed a number of compounds for treating all kinds of products. Personally recognised by Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft, for the innovative nature of their work, NanoPhos and Dr Arabatzis are undoubtedly delivering cutting edge nanotech inventions to improve and add value to a wide range of everyday products.

Protecting and waterproofing surfaces from within

Bricks, concrete, marble and timber are just a few of the items surrounding us in everyday life that are susceptible to surface damage though staining, sunlight, mould and fungus. Unlike other compounds, for instance 2 component or silicon based treatments that create a 'plastic film' on the surface they are applied to, Nanophos SA' SurfaPore® product uses the changed characteristics of nanotechnology to deeply penetrate the pores of these materials and 'dress' them from within.

Instead of sealing off these pores, like the other treatments, they act below the surface to change the cellular structure of the material, enabling it to use chemical forces to repel water and other corroding factors.

Whereas surface barrier films are damaged or worn away by cleaning, abrasion and mechanical wear and tear, this below surface treatment gives truly long lasting protection to any material to which it is applied. Since non-particles do not form polymer chains, they also last longer, with 95% of their original functionality or activity being recorded after eight years.

This enhanced, long lasting protection is due to the unique method developed by SurfaPore to chemically anchor its nanoparticles onto the basic building material.

Avoiding colour change and UV damage

By eliminating the need to create a film or membrane to protect surfaces, SurfaPore® formulations don't change the colour or appearance of the surfaces to which they are applied. They are also more resistant to the 'hard' UV part of solar radiation and so are less susceptible to the yellowing and fade effects of sunlight.

'Breathing' surfaces

One very important advantage of SurfaPore® is that surfaces modified with an appropriate SurfaPore® nanocompound can still 'breathe' after application. What this means is that water vapour can still travel from and to the outside through the natural pores of the material because they are not trapped by a protective film or membrane.

While water itself is blocked from being transferred from the external environment to the inside of the material, moisture that has got into the substrate before application can still freely vaporise and evaporate to the environment, without accumulating behind the building's surface.

As building technologists will readily appreciate, this means that surfaces modified with SurfaPore® remain dry and unchanged in both appearance and mechanical properties. Better still, many building failures, like swelling, cracking and warping are also minimized if not totally prevented.

Next Time

Using SurfaPore® to protect surfaces from stains, moulds, and fungus, how to apply, coverage and other useful 'stuff'.

The SurfaPore® range

With constant research adding to and improving these high tech products, SurfaPore® 'C' is the treatment for cement based surfaces, mortar, grout, stucco and natural or artificial stone, SurfaPore® 'R' is the product for clay based bricks, tiles, terracotta, and pottery, SurfaPore® 'T' is that one to use to protect granite, marble, and porcelain surfaces, while SurfaPore® 'W' provides wide protection for timber and wood based materials.
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Dr Benfield is visiting Professor with University of Wales Newport and CEO of on-line superstore Home & Garden Centre who sell innovative and unusual products, including solid wall insulation and nanotechnology materials.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/http://profbenfield.articlealley.com/nanosense-2--how-nanotechnology-is-improving-our-everyday-lives-1179631.html

Nanotechnology is begining to improve our everyday lives - part 1

How Nanotechnology is begining to improve our everyday lives - part 1

Author: Prof. Benfield

Sci-fi's Fantastic Voyage predicted today's science. From the film in which scientists shrank a and injected a submarine and its crew to save a dying man to even stranger inventions.

Do you remember 'Fantastic Voyage' - the sci-fi film in which scientists shran

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k a submarine and crew, injected them into a dying man , and saved him from certain death before being resized for more adventures?

Scripted by Harry Kleiner in 1966 and novelized for Bantam paperbacks 6 months later by Isaac Asimov, it spawned an animated TV series as well as a Salvador Dali painting. Now, some 40 years later, it is seeing practical application in space and cancer medicine, as well as arguably more prosaic areas like materials science.

Today it is called 'Nanotechnology' and in this series of brief articles we'll be exploring how it is beginning to influence the world around us. It begins by linking medical and building science.

Nanontechnology in a Nutshell

The science of Nanotechnology deals with very, very small structures, usually less than 100 nanometers in diameter. With 1 nanometer being 1 billionth of a meter, you'll get some idea of how small this is by imagining the earth as having a diameter of 1 meter with 1 billion apple pips (seeds) inside it. Or, looked at another way, the dimension ratio between a meter and a nanometer is the same as between earth and an apple.

For the mathematical purists among you 1nm = 10 -09 m, i.e. 1/1,000,000,000 Einstein might have imagined this by building a train wagon in his mind, giving this a length, width and height of 1nm and then fitting this inside a few hundreds of hydrogen molecules.

For scientists and technologists this has special interest because at this size materials reveal unique properties when compared not only with ordinary bulk sized materials, but also their molecules. In essence they take advantages of properties that neither individual molecules nor molecular structures exhibit.

For example, if we could see it a gold nanoparticle deposited on a surface would appear purple, rather than shiny and 'golden' that we presently recognize.

Again, if you can imagine a molecule as having a very small atom at it's core with many electrons spinning around this, all held together by the power of attraction, then you'll get some idea of the scale of things they are working with.

Another example of particular interest to scientists and technologists currently working, or considering working in this area is that of Titanium Dioxide (titania). This is used in paints to give that extremely white, opaque finish. But nanonised titania is completely transparent.

Nanomedicine

Drug discovery, drug delivery and continuing miniaturization are three areas in which medicine has joined our Fantastic Voyage. Long-term, in-vivo diagnostics and more targeted therapy without side effects are on the horizon. Being able to look for drug targets on a cellular rather than multi-cellular, or tissue basis can be much more precise.

Biosensors and molecule probes allow cellular processes to be examined and drug development aimed at molecular targets.

Latest treatment techniques already allow a drug to be put inside a nanoparticle, like a carbon or silicon nanotube. This might also hold antibodies to bind the drug, enabling smaller doses to be delivered direct to the targeted tissue.

Various nanoparticle drug formulations are already being investigated in animal models and early stage clinical studies in humans.

Treating Cancer & Diabetes

Using such nanobots, i.e. vehicles for carrying treatments, radioactive generators are already being injected. Going direct to the infected tissue these give small radiation doses to treat the cancer without all the unpleasant side effects of radiation therapy.

By encapsulating pancreatic cells inside nanoparticles they can be kept alive to secrete insulin without being attacked by antibodies. It's not a cure for diabetes, but does avoid unpleasant injections, delivering the insulin in a natural way.

Brain Tumors and Space Medicine

Neuroscientists are developing nanoparticles to cross the brain-blood barrier and could be treating brain tumors within a couple of years. Meanwhile NASA is pursuing remote diagnostics and treatments for space travelers, like radiation damaged cells. As Cecilia Haberzettl, founder and president of TechnoMed Strategic Partners, recently wrote in Nanotechnology

"When a cell is damaged by radiation it expresses different proteins on its surface. The nanobot would detect those proteins and then repair the cell, either by giving it antioxidants or by enhancing the natural mechanisms of DNA repair by some technique yet to be defined. Or, if the damage is severe, the nanobot could trigger the cell to die. All of that could happen while the astronauts are up in space, while avoiding communication delays due to the distance from the Earth."

Next Time

From treating humans to treating the buildings in which they live, how nanotechnology is being used in materials science and how a Greek entrepreneurial scientist has developed products that protect surfaces from stains, moulds, and fungus. Personally recognised by Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft, for the innovative nature of their work, they are undoubtedly delivering cutting edge nanotech inventions and technical excellence to improve and add value to a wide range of everyday products.

Look out for the next article to learn how this little company is experiencing burgeoning international growth by delivering massive advances and technical excellence in surface protections.
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Surfapore products can be bought on line from http://www.hgc.uk.com or http://www.benfieldatt.co.uk for inustrial quantities.

As visiting professor with the University of Wales Newport, Dr Benfield speaks, writes and consults on a range of environmental and sustainable development issues. Full Reprints with acknowledgment permitted. Approval required for changes.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/http://profbenfield.articlealley.com/how-nanotechnology-is-begining-to-improve-our-everyday-lives--part-1-1147062.html

Nanotechnology Australia : A Short History of Nanotechnology

A Short History of Nanotechnology

Author: Tauqeer Ul Hassan

The idea of building machines in microscopic sizes and making them function like construction bots for producing organizing and rearranging objects at molecular level is not easy to believe when there is no such technology present. This concept was put forward by Richard Feynman in 1959 in his talk  There's Plenty of Room at the Bottom'. This was the first talk to deal with the principles of nanotechnology but this was not a new idea.

Nanotechnology Australia : A Short History of Nanotechnology

Before Feynman had talked about this concept of nanotechnology, it was already proposed by James Clerk Maxwell in 1867. He had proposed an experiment of little entity called Maxwell's Demon capable of handling individual molecules.

Richard Adolf Zsigmondy was the first to use nanometer for characterizing particle size in 1914. He determined it as 1/10,00,000 of millimeter from which he developed the first system classification based on particle size in the nanometer range.

Moore's Law had best codified the concept of the influences. Gordon Moore predicted on Intel in 1965 about how modern circuitry would pack more features as more devices were produced for the market. This law has held strong for nearly 50 years.

Nanotechnology was first defined by Norio Taniguchi of the Tokyo Science University in 1974. It was the processing of, separation, consolidation and deformation of materials by one atom or one molecule.

The concept of nanotechnology to engineering through the concept of molecular manufacturing was for the first time applied by Eric Drexler. He suggested that if atoms were viewed like marbles then molecules would be tight collections of these marbles. These molecules became normal scaled tools like motors when snapped together. Despite the size of nanoscale, these tools operated in the same way as their large counterparts did. The moving parts of the nano machines were formed by atoms held together by the strength of their own bonds. Drexler had finally envisioned that these nano bots would be used as assemblers for the purpose of putting together atoms into any shape.

By applying this simple vision of molecule manufacturing to industries, Drexler claimed that coal can change into diamond and computer chips can be made from sand. By reorganizing the atoms that make these materials, the process will be considerably shortened and their valuable products would be produced at a faster speed. This was the reason nanotechnology was presented by Drexler as a scientific field that exclusively revolved around molecule manufacturing.

You might also want to learn about who invented the mp3 player and history of nanotechnology.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/http://tauqeerulhassan.articlealley.com/a-short-history-of-nanotechnology-1514359.html

Nanotechnology Australia : What is nanotechnology?

Stepping to the Nano-World

Author:Shivantha Withanage

 §  What is nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology is the study of manipulating matter on a molecular scale. In general this field deals with structures sized between 1 to 100 nanometers (nm) in at least one dimension. . In 1974 Tokyo science university professor Norio Taniguchi defined the term 'nanotechnology' as follows; 'Nano-technology' mainly consists of the processing of, separation, consolidation, and deformation of materials by one atom or by one molecule.'

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Nanotechnology is not just a single technical approach. It is a scientific basis for various possible new propositions. For example fields like nanomechanics, nanoelectronics and nanophotonics are new fields which have evolved on the scientific foundation of nanotechnology. As shown above it covers a vast range in science from mechanisms in the conventional physics to absolutely new methods based on self assembly of matter. Nanotechnology deals directly with developing new materials within the nano scale and investigate possibilities and methodologies of controlling matter on the atomic scale.

§  Unknown history of nanotechnology.  

The concept of nanotechnology was first expressed in 'There's plenty of room at the bottom', a speech given by physicist Richard Feynman at an American physical society meeting at Caltech which was held on 1959. In this speech he described about development of methods to manipulate individual atoms and molecules. In 1980's the basic idea of nanotechnology was explored in much more depth by Dr. K. Eric Drexler, who promoted the significance of nano-scale phenomena by the means of speeches and books such as 'Engines of Creations: The Coming Era of Nanotechnology' which is considered as the first book on nanotechnology.

Major advancement of nanotechnology was accompanied by two major moves in the science; the origin of cluster science and the invention of scanning tunneling microscope (STM). This led to the discovery of fullerenes, which are the molecules composed entirely in carbons, in the forms of hollow sphere, ellipsoid or tube, in 1985. After few years, carbon nano tubes which is a special type of fullerene was discovered.

§  Concepts of nanotechnology.

There are two main concepts in nanotechnology; the 'bottom-up' concept and the 'top-down' concept.

•  In the 'bottom-up' concept, materials are built from molecular components which have the ability of assembling themselves chemically under the principles of molecular recognition and bond formation.


• In the 'top-down' concept objects in the nano scale are constructed from larger entities. The 'top-down' concept doesn't involve any control of the formation of nano bodies at the atomic level.

In this scenario scaling issues would arise from changing the magnitude of various physical phenomena.

Article Source: http://shivanthawithanage.articlesbase.com/science-articles/stepping-to-the-nano-world-4439399.html

About the Author

Shivantha Withanage is a science student. Since 2009 he is publishing on various fields of science. In 2010, he came up with his debut science project, 'Traditional Ways of Water Purification', where he attempted to evaluate the scientific basis of traditional wisdom of water purification in Sri Lanka.