Development and applications of nanotechnology across scientific disciplines

nanotechnology DEVELOPMENT AND USES

The objective of this work is to research and examine the development and uses of Nanotechnology.

The basic definition of 'nanotechnology' is: "Engineering of functional systems at the molecular scale." (Center for Responsible Nanotechnology, 2006) According to the Center for the Responsible Nanotechnology "Molecular manufacturing means the ability to build devices, machines, and eventually whole products with every atom in its specified place." (2006) In 1959 an after-dinner talk described molecular use of machine building thorough means that were atomically precise. Nanotechnology was referred to again in 1974 by Taniquichi in a paper relating to the ion-machining process. In 1977 concepts of molecular nanotechnology are formed by Drexler at MIT. In 1982 the first technical paper on molecular engineering was presented. The first 'Think Tank' report was published and the first nanotechnology company 'Zyvex' was founded. The first nanotech industry report was released in 2001 jut one year after President Clinton had announced the U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative. Congressional hearings on the societal implications took place during the year 2003.

SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINES THAT UNDERPIN NANOTECHNOLOGY

According to the article entitled: "Small Wonders" (2004) published in The Economist: "Nanotechnology does not derive from a single scientific discipline. Although it probably has most in common with materials science, the properties of atoms and molecules underpin many areas of science, so the field attracts scientists of different disciplines." (Ibid) Some of the developments and uses of nanotechnology are manufacture of burn bandages which are made antimicrobial through an "addition of the nanoparticiles of silver." (Ibid) further stated is that."..fabrics have been stain- and odor-proofed by attaching molecules to cotton fibres that create a protective barrier. Tennis rackets have been strengthened by adding tiny particles that improve torsion and flex resistance. Other applications include coatings for the hulls of boats, sunscreen, car parts and refrigerators. In the longer term nanotechnology may produce much bigger innovations, such as new kinds of computer memory, improved medical technology and better energy-production methods such as solar cells." (Ibid)

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

Of the literature examined in this review the primarily held belief is that international research is needed relating to nanotechnology which has many important implications for positive development and use as well as having even more implications in ethical and safety concerns with the combining factor that "there is still only a very limited understanding of the possible dangers of new, synthetic nanoparticles..." (Ibid) Nanotechnology development and use holds much promise balanced by the same measure of unanswered questions. In order to better answer these questions an international research effort is needed which will serve to provide the answers to those questions and as well allow for the development of ethical, legislative and regulatory frameworks in its use and development.