Nanotechnology involves creating and using things on a very small scale, with the smallest nanoparticles being larger than an atom but smaller than an object seen under a microscope. The US National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) aims to advance research and development, promote educational programs, and ensure responsible development. Other countries, such as India and Israel, also have their own nanotechnology initiatives. The European Commission funds research in nanomedicine, nanomaterials for water conservation, and nanotechnology for new energy technologies.
Nanotechnology is an application of engineering and scientific theories that create and use things on a very small scale. Scientists who attempt to study the basis of materials that exist due to their small size are called nanoscientists. The nanoscale ranges from about 1 nanometer to 100 nanometers. Put simply, it means that the smallest nanoparticles are still larger than an atom or molecule, but smaller than an object seen under a microscope.
In the United States, the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) was created to provide a federal blueprint for nanotechnology research and development. The goal is for the NNI to serve as a hub for federal agencies that need to collaborate and communicate their nanotechnology goals and strategies. NNI goals include the advancement of research and development, the utility of new technologies to the public, the development of educational programs that will promote nanotechnology, and ensure that nanotechnology development is responsible. Federal agencies involved in the NNI are working to create new medicines, products and medical devices, all to better serve the public.
NNI Centers provide opportunities and help for research across a broad range of disciplines and in a variety of sectors, such as academia, government and industrial laboratories. Such research will lead to advances in knowledge and build relationships that will enhance the study of nanotechnology and the nanotechnology initiative. For example, at the University of Colorado at Boulder the National Science Foundation has funded the Center for Extreme Ultraviolet Science and Technology, the Department of Energy has the Center for Nanophase Materials Science at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the Department of Defense has l ‘Institute for Nanosciences at the Naval Research Laboratory.
In 2001, India started its National Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI). India’s nanotechnology initiative comprises three main areas: research, education and industry. Additionally, India is designing laboratories and equipment to delve into the world of nanotechnology. Interesting projects include using carbon nanotubes to measure the flow of fluids, synthesizing and manipulating nanotube properties, and using biosynthesis to create nanomaterials.
Israel also has its own initiative, the Israeli National Nanotechnology Initiative (INNI). Through their initiative, they will establish a national policy for nanotechnology funding, create a nanotechnology-based research and training program, and promote local nanotechnology-based industry. The Israelis have been working to find funding, especially for additional research and development.
The European version of an initiative on nanotechnology is called the European Commission. The Commission is charged with formulating policies and finding funding for nanotechnologies. The Commission’s aim is to fund research that is beneficial to society and that will enable industries to compete in nanotechnology sectors across Europe. Proposals have been requested for nanomedicine, such as for drugs that will fight cancer; nanomaterials for water conservation; and nanotechnology for new technologies in the energy industries.
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