Why Is Nanotechnology Important?

In 1959, Richard Feynman became the first individual to give a lecture about the concepts involved in nanotechnology. He gave the talk at the American Physical Society at Caltech. The talk specifically examined how individuals might be able to manipulate atoms and molecules into smaller structures. The talk was well received, and it introduced the idea to the science world. In 1974, Norio Taniguchi coined the term “nanotechnology” to refer to this new and developing field.

What Are the Major Facets of Nanotechnology?

A nanometer is one billionth the size of a meter. The two major techniques that are used in the field are the bottom up technique, and the top down approach. In the former, materials are created using molecules. These molecules assemble themselves according to the chemical rules of molecular recognition. In the latter technique, nano-objects are created using larger materials. The top-down approach does not use atomic control.

How Has Nanotechnology Evolved Over Time?

A number of different technologies helped advance the field of nanotechnology. Two microscopes greatly helped the development of nanotechnology, specifically the atomic force microscope and the Scanning Tunneling Microscope.

In the late seventies, the scanning acoustic microscope was developed by Calvin Quate. This microscope made it easier for scientists to manipulate different nanostructures. Furthermore, as the field grew, scientists invented a number of techniques using other technologies that improved the study of nanotechnology including:

Optical lithography
X-ray lithography
Dip pen nanolithogtaphy
Electron beam lithography

Possible Dangers of Nanotechnology

There is some concern that the individuals could use nanotechnology to create weapons of mass destruction that would be virtually untraceable. Further, some individuals fear that certain products created by nanotechnology might have health risks, or a negative environmental impact.

How Is Nanotechnology Used Today?

As of 2010, there are approximately eight hundred nanotech products that are available to the public. The field is growing in size, and every week there are approximately three to five new nanotech products that are developed. Some of the products that are available include nanotech that affects cosmetics, food, sunscreen, food packaging material, clothing, disinfectants, household appliances, paints, and furniture varnishes to name a few. Nanotechnology has even been used to create nanoscale materials that are used in solar cells as an alternative to silicon solar cells.

Specific Nanotechnology Companies

There are hundreds of nanotechnology companies, but it’s useful to know a couple of the companies to begin to understand the field.

NanoStellar is a company that creates a nano-composite catalyst that is used in catalytic converters.
CO2 Solution is a company that produces an enzyme for removal of carbon dioxide from smoke stacks.
Altimate EnviroCare creates a spray on film that uses titanium oxide nanopartices. This film kills bacteria and eliminates odor.

These are only a handful of the types of nanotechnology companies.