The nanoscience and nanotechnology (NST) can be defined a collection all studies and methods of manufacturing and handling of structures, systems and hardware devices to the nanometer (nm). In this context, nanoscience is the study of phenomena and the manipulation of matter at the atomic, molecular and macromolecular scales, where properties change substantially from those that prevail on a larger scale. the nanotechnology for their part, they concern the design, characterization, production and application of structures, systems and devices by controlling shape and size at a nanoscale. Despite the relative simplicity and precision of these definitions, the NSTs have several meanings related to the transversal nature of this young discipline. Indeed, they use, while serving new possibilities, disciplines such as optics, biology, mechanics, chemistry, or even microtechnology. Thus, as recognized by the official French portal of NST, “scientists are not unanimous as to the definition of nanoscience and nanotechnology”. Consider http://mstnano.com for nanotechnology related services.
Nanoparticles, nanomaterials and commercialized applications
While there has been a craze for potential applications of nanotechnology, much of the commercialized application is limited to the use of a “first generation” of passive nanomaterials. This includes nanoparticles of titanium dioxide in sunscreens, cosmetics, and some food products; iron nanoparticles in the food packaging; zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreens and cosmetics, in exterior coatings, paints, and in furnishing varnishes; and cerium oxide nanoparticles acting as a fuel catalyst. Visit http://mstnano.com in order to get nanotechnology related service.
The amazing “One project”
One project, The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, lists nanoparticle-based products based on nanotechnologies. In 2007, this project identifies more than 500 consumer products based on nanotechnologies. In 2008, the report from this project tells us that the main sector concerned by nanotechnology consumer products is that of health and sports (clothing, sports accessories, cosmetics, personal care, sunscreen, …) with 59% products, followed by electronics and computer science, which accounts for 14% (audio and video, camera and film, computer hardware, mobile systems and communication).
Bottom-up approach and perspectives
In addition, strict applications manipulation or arrangement of components at a nanoscale (atom by atom) require the deepening of research in progress before reaching their commercialization. Indeed, the technologies now marked with the prefix “nano” are sometimes not very linked and far removed from the final objectives announced by nanotechnologies, especially in the context of the molecular product which is an idea always suggested by the term. Thus, there may be a danger that a “nano bubble” is formed (or is forming), resulting from the use of the term by scientists and entrepreneurs to collect additional financial means.
“Nanotechnology” is, in fact, a reworking of the science of materials. This phenomenon could lead to nanotechnologies being represented by an industry based primarily on the sale of nanotubes and nanowires (one-dimensional nanometers), which would limit the number of suppliers to a few companies selling low margins with, particularly large volumes.
