http://naturebios.com/natureboard/ Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:35:45 -0700 MyBB http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=963 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:28:01 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=963 How long will it take to develop molecular manufacturing?

We began our discussion with physics and chemistry and continued with the capture and placement of single atoms using new devices like the scanning tunneling microscope. Shortly thereafter, researchers were able to create the carbon nanotube, which is likely to become our primary structural element in the future. Nobel Laureate Dr. Richard Smalley (Rice University) discussed the advances in carbon nanotube manipulation in his 1996 address: From Balls to Tubes to Ropes: New Materials from Carbon. Recent presentations at the Foresight Conference on Molecular Nanotechnology highlight that this development continues as we gain the ability to assemble the fibers into sheets and three-dimensional lattices. Dr. Carlo Montemagno (formerly of Cornell, now at UCLA) and his team of researchers have created the first molecular motor, and this gives us an inkling of some of the atom transport systems that may arise.

Computer systems continue to advance as well, with the development of faster, smaller, and cheaper systems that have greater capacity. Assuming that security systems also see improvement, then these should be applicable to molecular machines, once they are developed. These improvements will also impact our ability to model new molecular devices, and help stabilize design parameters before the machines are actually built.

Development in nanotechnology is expected to continue at an accelerating pace, given that funding for these types of research is increasingly available. While informed estimates range from 15 to 50 years, it seems clear that molecular manufacturing will arrive in the not-too-distant future. We recommend that you read Nanodot or become a Basic Contributor member of Foresight, entitling you to receive Foresight Update, which contains information on the latest developments.]]> How long will it take to develop molecular manufacturing?

We began our discussion with physics and chemistry and continued with the capture and placement of single atoms using new devices like the scanning tunneling microscope. Shortly thereafter, researchers were able to create the carbon nanotube, which is likely to become our primary structural element in the future. Nobel Laureate Dr. Richard Smalley (Rice University) discussed the advances in carbon nanotube manipulation in his 1996 address: From Balls to Tubes to Ropes: New Materials from Carbon. Recent presentations at the Foresight Conference on Molecular Nanotechnology highlight that this development continues as we gain the ability to assemble the fibers into sheets and three-dimensional lattices. Dr. Carlo Montemagno (formerly of Cornell, now at UCLA) and his team of researchers have created the first molecular motor, and this gives us an inkling of some of the atom transport systems that may arise.

Computer systems continue to advance as well, with the development of faster, smaller, and cheaper systems that have greater capacity. Assuming that security systems also see improvement, then these should be applicable to molecular machines, once they are developed. These improvements will also impact our ability to model new molecular devices, and help stabilize design parameters before the machines are actually built.

Development in nanotechnology is expected to continue at an accelerating pace, given that funding for these types of research is increasingly available. While informed estimates range from 15 to 50 years, it seems clear that molecular manufacturing will arrive in the not-too-distant future. We recommend that you read Nanodot or become a Basic Contributor member of Foresight, entitling you to receive Foresight Update, which contains information on the latest developments.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=962 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:27:28 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=962 What precautions can we take to ensure safe development?

While molecular manufacturing will facilitate control over the structure of matter, we must ask ourselves who will control the technology itself? The chief danger may not be a devastating accident, but instead, an abuse of power. We live in a competitive world, and one that is accelerating toward the development of this set of capabilities.

This concern about control issues encourages us to argue against secrecy. Combating the dangers will be greatly aided if we all have access to information about progress in the laboratory. If we reduce the number of projects being developed in a military black box, we will probably increase the number of people working on molecular manufacturing. Having more people involved in the field will mean that we are better able to defend ourselves in an emergency. We might see increases in the number of additional projects working on medicine, manufacturing, and the environment. Openly focusing on projects that aid people should go a long way to ensure that information remains available to the public.

We must also remember that there are dangers from both accidents and deliberate misuse. Much can be done to prevent accidents through the promotion a consistent ethical system and a system of accountability for those who develop and employ new technology. Trust will remain a central issue as molecular manufacturing research comes closer to deployment in the commercial world.

There are those who propose that trust is in short supply and that development guidelines should take into account that there will always be subversive elements. In this case, steps can be taken to prevent the abuse of nanotechnology through the application of, say, exotic environments, whereby a machine will only operate under specific laboratory conditions; and if applied, a machine released into the "wild" would cease to function.

Irrespective of trust issues, there are also concerns that replication errors may arise. We must work toward the creation of systems that reproduce information with as few errors as possible, ideally with no errors. Some suggest that it is also a good idea to design systems to limit internal evolution.

These elements and more are discussed in the Foresight Guidelines on Molecular Nanotechnology, which were created to begin addressing the need for a coherent plan for developing nanotechnology in a safe way.]]> What precautions can we take to ensure safe development?

While molecular manufacturing will facilitate control over the structure of matter, we must ask ourselves who will control the technology itself? The chief danger may not be a devastating accident, but instead, an abuse of power. We live in a competitive world, and one that is accelerating toward the development of this set of capabilities.

This concern about control issues encourages us to argue against secrecy. Combating the dangers will be greatly aided if we all have access to information about progress in the laboratory. If we reduce the number of projects being developed in a military black box, we will probably increase the number of people working on molecular manufacturing. Having more people involved in the field will mean that we are better able to defend ourselves in an emergency. We might see increases in the number of additional projects working on medicine, manufacturing, and the environment. Openly focusing on projects that aid people should go a long way to ensure that information remains available to the public.

We must also remember that there are dangers from both accidents and deliberate misuse. Much can be done to prevent accidents through the promotion a consistent ethical system and a system of accountability for those who develop and employ new technology. Trust will remain a central issue as molecular manufacturing research comes closer to deployment in the commercial world.

There are those who propose that trust is in short supply and that development guidelines should take into account that there will always be subversive elements. In this case, steps can be taken to prevent the abuse of nanotechnology through the application of, say, exotic environments, whereby a machine will only operate under specific laboratory conditions; and if applied, a machine released into the "wild" would cease to function.

Irrespective of trust issues, there are also concerns that replication errors may arise. We must work toward the creation of systems that reproduce information with as few errors as possible, ideally with no errors. Some suggest that it is also a good idea to design systems to limit internal evolution.

These elements and more are discussed in the Foresight Guidelines on Molecular Nanotechnology, which were created to begin addressing the need for a coherent plan for developing nanotechnology in a safe way.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=961 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:26:58 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=961 What are the risks of developing molecular manufacturing?

Almost any technology can be abused, and nanotechnology will be no exception. Although nanotechnology is still in the early stages of development, Foresight has encouraged exploration of what dangers might arise if the resulting research were applied to destructive goals. We have developed several papers that explore the threats more concretely, including specific scenarios on the development of biological and chemical warfare and more:]]> What are the risks of developing molecular manufacturing?

Almost any technology can be abused, and nanotechnology will be no exception. Although nanotechnology is still in the early stages of development, Foresight has encouraged exploration of what dangers might arise if the resulting research were applied to destructive goals. We have developed several papers that explore the threats more concretely, including specific scenarios on the development of biological and chemical warfare and more:]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=960 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:26:28 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=960 How will molecular manufacturing improve our lives?

One of the first obvious benefits is the improvement in manufacturing techniques. We are taking familiar manufacturing systems and expanding them to develop precision on the atomic scale. This will give us greater understanding of the building of things, and greater flexibility in the types and quantity of things we may build. We will be able to expand our control of systems from the macro to the micro and beyond, while simultaneously reducing the cost associated with manufacturing products.

Some of the most dramatic changes are expected in the realm of medicine. Theorists envision creating machines that will be able to travel through the circulatory system, cleaning the arteries as they go; sending out troops to track down and destroy cancer cells and tumors; or repairing injured tissue at the site of the wound, even to the point of replacing missing limbs or damaged organs. The extent of medical repair systems is expected to be quite broad, with the cumulative impact being equally large. These prospects are described in the Nanomedicine book series.

Nanotechnology is expected to touch almost every aspect of our lives, right down to the water we drink and the air we breathe. Once we have the ability to capture, position, and change the configuration of a molecule, we should be able to create filtration systems that will scrub the toxins from the air or remove hazardous organisms from the water we drink. We should be able to begin the long process of cleaning up our environment.

Space will also open up to us in new ways. With the current cost of transporting payloads into space being so high (~$20,000/kg), little is being done to take advantage of space. Nanotechnology will help by allowing us to deliver more machines of smaller size and greater functionality into space, paving the way for solar system expansion. Some have suggested that application of medical nanosystems might even go so far as to allow us to adapt our bodies for survival in space or on other worlds. While this is certainly a long way off, it provides a glimpse of the thorough control that molecular manufacturing and advanced molecular nanosystems may provide.

Taking all of this into account, it is clear that molecular manufacturing should improve our lives in any area that would benefit from the development of better, faster, stronger, smaller, and cheaper systems]]> How will molecular manufacturing improve our lives?

One of the first obvious benefits is the improvement in manufacturing techniques. We are taking familiar manufacturing systems and expanding them to develop precision on the atomic scale. This will give us greater understanding of the building of things, and greater flexibility in the types and quantity of things we may build. We will be able to expand our control of systems from the macro to the micro and beyond, while simultaneously reducing the cost associated with manufacturing products.

Some of the most dramatic changes are expected in the realm of medicine. Theorists envision creating machines that will be able to travel through the circulatory system, cleaning the arteries as they go; sending out troops to track down and destroy cancer cells and tumors; or repairing injured tissue at the site of the wound, even to the point of replacing missing limbs or damaged organs. The extent of medical repair systems is expected to be quite broad, with the cumulative impact being equally large. These prospects are described in the Nanomedicine book series.

Nanotechnology is expected to touch almost every aspect of our lives, right down to the water we drink and the air we breathe. Once we have the ability to capture, position, and change the configuration of a molecule, we should be able to create filtration systems that will scrub the toxins from the air or remove hazardous organisms from the water we drink. We should be able to begin the long process of cleaning up our environment.

Space will also open up to us in new ways. With the current cost of transporting payloads into space being so high (~$20,000/kg), little is being done to take advantage of space. Nanotechnology will help by allowing us to deliver more machines of smaller size and greater functionality into space, paving the way for solar system expansion. Some have suggested that application of medical nanosystems might even go so far as to allow us to adapt our bodies for survival in space or on other worlds. While this is certainly a long way off, it provides a glimpse of the thorough control that molecular manufacturing and advanced molecular nanosystems may provide.

Taking all of this into account, it is clear that molecular manufacturing should improve our lives in any area that would benefit from the development of better, faster, stronger, smaller, and cheaper systems]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=959 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:25:46 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=959 Why would we develop molecular manufacturing?

Ignoring for the moment that scientists and engineers are a curious lot, always pushing the envelope of what can and cannot be done, precision has been mentioned as a benefit of molecular machines and is one of the keys to understanding why we would want to develop this technology.

In this application, precision means that there is a place for every atom and every atom is in its place. Schematics will be detailed, and there will be no unnecessary parts anywhere in the design. We will use machines of precision to create products of equal precision. With this precision, we should be able to recycle all of the waste products produced by the manufacturing processes and put them to good use elsewhere. Manufacturing will also become less expensive as a result.

Technology has never had this kind of precise control; all of our technologies today are bulk technologies. We take a lump of something and add or remove pieces until we're left with whatever object we were trying to create. We assemble our objects from parts, without regard to structure at the molecular level. Precise atomic-level fabrication has previously only been seen in the growth of crystals or in biological molecular machinery, like the ribosome, which assembles all the proteins in living creatures, or DNA, which carries the instructions for creating a living being. If we incorporate similar processes during our development of nanotechnology, we will begin to gain a degree of complexity and control over systems that previously only evolution and nature have had.

Additional benefits arise when we consider the size of devices that we will be able to create. Once we are working on the atomic scale, we can create machines that will go places about which we could once only dream. More information will be packed into smaller and smaller spaces, and we will be able to do much more with much less. Nanotechnology promises unprecedented and efficient control over our environment, but taking advantage of anticipated developments requires forethought and planning. This is a primary aspect of Foresight's mission, and we continue to explore the costs and the benefits of developing nanotechnology and molecular manufacturing.]]> Why would we develop molecular manufacturing?

Ignoring for the moment that scientists and engineers are a curious lot, always pushing the envelope of what can and cannot be done, precision has been mentioned as a benefit of molecular machines and is one of the keys to understanding why we would want to develop this technology.

In this application, precision means that there is a place for every atom and every atom is in its place. Schematics will be detailed, and there will be no unnecessary parts anywhere in the design. We will use machines of precision to create products of equal precision. With this precision, we should be able to recycle all of the waste products produced by the manufacturing processes and put them to good use elsewhere. Manufacturing will also become less expensive as a result.

Technology has never had this kind of precise control; all of our technologies today are bulk technologies. We take a lump of something and add or remove pieces until we're left with whatever object we were trying to create. We assemble our objects from parts, without regard to structure at the molecular level. Precise atomic-level fabrication has previously only been seen in the growth of crystals or in biological molecular machinery, like the ribosome, which assembles all the proteins in living creatures, or DNA, which carries the instructions for creating a living being. If we incorporate similar processes during our development of nanotechnology, we will begin to gain a degree of complexity and control over systems that previously only evolution and nature have had.

Additional benefits arise when we consider the size of devices that we will be able to create. Once we are working on the atomic scale, we can create machines that will go places about which we could once only dream. More information will be packed into smaller and smaller spaces, and we will be able to do much more with much less. Nanotechnology promises unprecedented and efficient control over our environment, but taking advantage of anticipated developments requires forethought and planning. This is a primary aspect of Foresight's mission, and we continue to explore the costs and the benefits of developing nanotechnology and molecular manufacturing.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=958 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:25:14 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=958 What is molecular manufacturing?

Molecular manufacturing is the name given to a specific type of "bottom-up" construction technology. As its name implies, molecular manufacturing will be achieved when we are able to build things from the molecule up, and we will be able to rearrange matter with atomic precision. This technology does not yet exist; but once it does, we should have a thorough and inexpensive system for controlling of the structure of matter.

Other terms, such as molecular engineering or productive molecular nanosystems, are also often applied when describing this emerging technology.

The central thesis of nanotechnology is that almost any chemically stable structure that is not specifically disallowed by the laws of physics can in fact be built. The possibility of building things with atomic precision was first introduced by Richard Feynman in a famous after-dinner talk in 1959 when he said: "The principles of physics, as far as I can see, do not speak against the possibility of maneuvering things atom by atom."

Scientists have recently gained the ability to observe and manipulate atoms directly, but this is only one small aspect of a growing array of techniques in nanoscale science and technology. The ability to make commercial products may yet be a few decades away. But theoretical and computational models indicate that molecular manufacturing systems are possible - that they do not violate existing physical law. These models also give us a feel for what a molecular manufacturing system might look like. Today, scientists are devising numerous tools and techniques that will be needed to transform nanotechnology from computer models into reality. While most remain in the realm of theory, there appears to be no fundamental barrier to their development.]]> What is molecular manufacturing?

Molecular manufacturing is the name given to a specific type of "bottom-up" construction technology. As its name implies, molecular manufacturing will be achieved when we are able to build things from the molecule up, and we will be able to rearrange matter with atomic precision. This technology does not yet exist; but once it does, we should have a thorough and inexpensive system for controlling of the structure of matter.

Other terms, such as molecular engineering or productive molecular nanosystems, are also often applied when describing this emerging technology.

The central thesis of nanotechnology is that almost any chemically stable structure that is not specifically disallowed by the laws of physics can in fact be built. The possibility of building things with atomic precision was first introduced by Richard Feynman in a famous after-dinner talk in 1959 when he said: "The principles of physics, as far as I can see, do not speak against the possibility of maneuvering things atom by atom."

Scientists have recently gained the ability to observe and manipulate atoms directly, but this is only one small aspect of a growing array of techniques in nanoscale science and technology. The ability to make commercial products may yet be a few decades away. But theoretical and computational models indicate that molecular manufacturing systems are possible - that they do not violate existing physical law. These models also give us a feel for what a molecular manufacturing system might look like. Today, scientists are devising numerous tools and techniques that will be needed to transform nanotechnology from computer models into reality. While most remain in the realm of theory, there appears to be no fundamental barrier to their development.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=957 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:24:14 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=957 NANOTECHNOLOGY Frequently Asked Questions pdf file free download



download here:]]> NANOTECHNOLOGY Frequently Asked Questions pdf file free download



download here:]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=956 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:18:42 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=956 What is Foresight's role in nanotechnology?

As the leading public interest organization in nanotechnology since its founding in 1986, Foresight seeks to promote beneficial nanotechnology.

Foresight concerns itself with policy development and education on societal and ethical implications of nanotechnology, including both advancing positive applications and attempting to minimize potential downsides to the technology.]]> What is Foresight's role in nanotechnology?

As the leading public interest organization in nanotechnology since its founding in 1986, Foresight seeks to promote beneficial nanotechnology.

Foresight concerns itself with policy development and education on societal and ethical implications of nanotechnology, including both advancing positive applications and attempting to minimize potential downsides to the technology.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=955 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:18:09 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=955 Are there any safety or environmental issues with the nanotechnologies in use today?

Concerns have been raised regarding potential health and environmental effects of the passive nanostructures termed "nanoparticles." Regulatory agencies and standards bodies are beginning to look at these issues, though significantly more funding for these efforts is required. Foresight is working with the International Council on Nanotechnology to address these concerns.]]> Are there any safety or environmental issues with the nanotechnologies in use today?

Concerns have been raised regarding potential health and environmental effects of the passive nanostructures termed "nanoparticles." Regulatory agencies and standards bodies are beginning to look at these issues, though significantly more funding for these efforts is required. Foresight is working with the International Council on Nanotechnology to address these concerns.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=954 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:17:35 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=954 What results can be expected in the near-term? The mid-term? The long-term?

Nanotech's development can usefully be divided into stages, for example:

* 1st generation: Passive nanostructures
* 2nd generation: Active nanostructures
* 3rd generation: Three-dimensional nanosystems with heterogeneous nanocomponents
* 4th generation: Heterogeneous molecular nanosystems, where each molecule in the nanosystem has a specific structure and plays a different role

As this is written, 1st generation products are commercially available, 2nd generation work is taking place in the laboratory, and later generations are at the computational experiment and modeling stage.]]> What results can be expected in the near-term? The mid-term? The long-term?

Nanotech's development can usefully be divided into stages, for example:

* 1st generation: Passive nanostructures
* 2nd generation: Active nanostructures
* 3rd generation: Three-dimensional nanosystems with heterogeneous nanocomponents
* 4th generation: Heterogeneous molecular nanosystems, where each molecule in the nanosystem has a specific structure and plays a different role

As this is written, 1st generation products are commercially available, 2nd generation work is taking place in the laboratory, and later generations are at the computational experiment and modeling stage.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=953 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:17:08 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=953 Which country leads in nanotechnology?

World leadership in nanotechnology varies according to which sub-category of technology is being examined. In general, nanotechnology is unlike a number of recent major technological innovations in that the U.S. does not hold a very strong lead at the start. High quality work is taking place around the world, including countries with a higher fraction of engineering graduates, much lower R&D costs, and (unfortunately) less-stringent environmental standards.]]> Which country leads in nanotechnology?

World leadership in nanotechnology varies according to which sub-category of technology is being examined. In general, nanotechnology is unlike a number of recent major technological innovations in that the U.S. does not hold a very strong lead at the start. High quality work is taking place around the world, including countries with a higher fraction of engineering graduates, much lower R&D costs, and (unfortunately) less-stringent environmental standards.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=952 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:16:33 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=952 Where is nanotechnology being developed?

Research and development of nanotechnology is taking place worldwide. As this is written, government spending is at approximately one billion U.S. dollars in each of four global areas: (1) the United States, (2) Europe, (3) Japan, and (4) the rest of the world, including China, Israel, Taiwan, Singapore, South Korea, and India. Similar amounts are said to be being spent in the private sector, with these figures being quite difficult to determine accurately due to the breadth of the nanotech definition, which includes a large number of older technologies.]]> Where is nanotechnology being developed?

Research and development of nanotechnology is taking place worldwide. As this is written, government spending is at approximately one billion U.S. dollars in each of four global areas: (1) the United States, (2) Europe, (3) Japan, and (4) the rest of the world, including China, Israel, Taiwan, Singapore, South Korea, and India. Similar amounts are said to be being spent in the private sector, with these figures being quite difficult to determine accurately due to the breadth of the nanotech definition, which includes a large number of older technologies.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=951 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:16:09 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=951 How is nanotech different from biotech?

Based on the definition of nanotech given above, biotech can be thought of as a subset of nanotech - "nature's nanotechnology." Biotech uses the molecular structures, devices, and systems found in plants and animals to create new molecular products. Nanotech is more general, not being limited to existing natural structures, devices, and systems, and instead designing and building new, non-biological ones. These can be quite different: harder, stronger, tougher, and able to survive a dry or hot environment, unlike biology. For example, nanotech products can be used to build an automobile or spacecraft.]]> How is nanotech different from biotech?

Based on the definition of nanotech given above, biotech can be thought of as a subset of nanotech - "nature's nanotechnology." Biotech uses the molecular structures, devices, and systems found in plants and animals to create new molecular products. Nanotech is more general, not being limited to existing natural structures, devices, and systems, and instead designing and building new, non-biological ones. These can be quite different: harder, stronger, tougher, and able to survive a dry or hot environment, unlike biology. For example, nanotech products can be used to build an automobile or spacecraft.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=950 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:15:45 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=950 How can nanotechnology promise to build products with both extreme precision in structure, and environmental cleanliness in the production process?

Traditional manufacturing builds in a "top down" fashion, taking a chunk of material and removing chunks of it - for example, by grinding, or by dissolving with acids - until the final product part is achieved. The goal of nanotechnology is to instead build in a "bottom-up" fashion, starting with individual molecules and bringing them together to form product parts in which every atom is in a precise, designed location. In comparison with the top-down approach, this method could potentially have much less material left over, greatly reducing pollution.

In practice, both top-down and bottom-up methods are useful and being actively pursued at the nanoscale. However, the ultimate goal of building products with atomic precision will require a bottom-up approach.]]> How can nanotechnology promise to build products with both extreme precision in structure, and environmental cleanliness in the production process?

Traditional manufacturing builds in a "top down" fashion, taking a chunk of material and removing chunks of it - for example, by grinding, or by dissolving with acids - until the final product part is achieved. The goal of nanotechnology is to instead build in a "bottom-up" fashion, starting with individual molecules and bringing them together to form product parts in which every atom is in a precise, designed location. In comparison with the top-down approach, this method could potentially have much less material left over, greatly reducing pollution.

In practice, both top-down and bottom-up methods are useful and being actively pursued at the nanoscale. However, the ultimate goal of building products with atomic precision will require a bottom-up approach.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=949 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:15:12 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=949 Why develop nanotechnology?

Gaining better control over the structure of matter has been a primary project of our species since we started chipping flint. The quality of all human-made goods depends on the arrangement of their atoms. The cost of our products depends on how difficult it is for us to get the atoms and molecules to connect up the way we want them. The amount of energy used - and pollution created - depends on the methods we use to place and connect the molecules into a given product. The goal of nanotechnology is to improve our control over how we build things, so that our products can be of the highest quality and while causing the lowest environmental impact. Nanotech is even expected to help us heal the damage our past cruder and dirtier technologies have caused to the biosphere.

Nanotechnology has been identified as essential in solving many of the problems facing humanity. Specifically, it is the key to addressing the Foresight Nanotech Challenges:

1. Providing Renewable Clean Energy
2. Supplying Clean Water Globally
3. Improving Health and Longevity
4. Healing and Preserving the Environment
5. Making Information Technology Available To All
6. Enabling Space Development]]> Why develop nanotechnology?

Gaining better control over the structure of matter has been a primary project of our species since we started chipping flint. The quality of all human-made goods depends on the arrangement of their atoms. The cost of our products depends on how difficult it is for us to get the atoms and molecules to connect up the way we want them. The amount of energy used - and pollution created - depends on the methods we use to place and connect the molecules into a given product. The goal of nanotechnology is to improve our control over how we build things, so that our products can be of the highest quality and while causing the lowest environmental impact. Nanotech is even expected to help us heal the damage our past cruder and dirtier technologies have caused to the biosphere.

Nanotechnology has been identified as essential in solving many of the problems facing humanity. Specifically, it is the key to addressing the Foresight Nanotech Challenges:

1. Providing Renewable Clean Energy
2. Supplying Clean Water Globally
3. Improving Health and Longevity
4. Healing and Preserving the Environment
5. Making Information Technology Available To All
6. Enabling Space Development]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=948 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:13:49 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=948 Nanotechnology Faqs : nanotechnology frequently asked questions


1. What is nanotechnology?

2. How big is a nanometer?

3. What are some of the products of nanotechnology?

4. What will nanotechnology bring us in the future?

5. Where do I look to find a college or university that teaches courses on nanotechnology?

6. I want to read about nanotechnology - where do I start?

7. Are there many businesses involved in nanotechnology?

8. I'd like to attend some nanotechnology events - where can I find a list?

9. I saw a term that I do not recognize - where can I find out what it means?

10. Which government agencies are involved in nanotechnology?

11. I'd like to learn more about nanotechnology - where can I go on the internet to look?

12. I see a lot of information about nanotechnology in the USA - where can I learn about other country's programs?

13. Are there any newsletters that I can sign up for?

14. I am interested in professional societies - where can I find a list?

15. Where can I find a list of VC firms who are investing in nanotechnology?

16. Are there any white papers available on the internet for me to read?

17. Where can I find out about the people I read about who are responsible for nanotech discoveries?

18. Are there any chat sites dedicated to nanotechnology?

19. I saw a reference to an old news story - where can I find the original?

20. Where can I find artwork that relates to nanotechnology?

21. I'd like to listen programs that cover nanotechnology - where can I find them?

22. Where can I find a list of sites with nanotechnology images?

23. Is there a list of Non-Profit sites?

24. My company is interested in buying tools to set up a lab - where can I find the tool makers?

25. I recently saw an article on "Disruptive Technologies" - can you point me to more information?

26. Nanotubes seem like the building blocks of advanced technology - where can I learn more?

27. What's with all the conflicting opinion regarding Grey Goo?

28. I have seen several articles about various "nano-things" - is there a list of them, with explanations?

29. Can you tell me about Smartdust?

30. What is Utility Fog, and how may it be used?

31. Someone told me about Spintronics and Quantum Computing - can you tell me more?

32. Who are these Extropians and Transhumanists I have been reading about?

33. Are there any books that cover the Extropian & Transhumanist movements

34. After seeing The Matrix I got to wondering about the "Simulation Argument" - can you tell me more?

35. Where can I learn more about the ethics of developing technologies like molecular manufacturing?]]> Nanotechnology Faqs : nanotechnology frequently asked questions


1. What is nanotechnology?

2. How big is a nanometer?

3. What are some of the products of nanotechnology?

4. What will nanotechnology bring us in the future?

5. Where do I look to find a college or university that teaches courses on nanotechnology?

6. I want to read about nanotechnology - where do I start?

7. Are there many businesses involved in nanotechnology?

8. I'd like to attend some nanotechnology events - where can I find a list?

9. I saw a term that I do not recognize - where can I find out what it means?

10. Which government agencies are involved in nanotechnology?

11. I'd like to learn more about nanotechnology - where can I go on the internet to look?

12. I see a lot of information about nanotechnology in the USA - where can I learn about other country's programs?

13. Are there any newsletters that I can sign up for?

14. I am interested in professional societies - where can I find a list?

15. Where can I find a list of VC firms who are investing in nanotechnology?

16. Are there any white papers available on the internet for me to read?

17. Where can I find out about the people I read about who are responsible for nanotech discoveries?

18. Are there any chat sites dedicated to nanotechnology?

19. I saw a reference to an old news story - where can I find the original?

20. Where can I find artwork that relates to nanotechnology?

21. I'd like to listen programs that cover nanotechnology - where can I find them?

22. Where can I find a list of sites with nanotechnology images?

23. Is there a list of Non-Profit sites?

24. My company is interested in buying tools to set up a lab - where can I find the tool makers?

25. I recently saw an article on "Disruptive Technologies" - can you point me to more information?

26. Nanotubes seem like the building blocks of advanced technology - where can I learn more?

27. What's with all the conflicting opinion regarding Grey Goo?

28. I have seen several articles about various "nano-things" - is there a list of them, with explanations?

29. Can you tell me about Smartdust?

30. What is Utility Fog, and how may it be used?

31. Someone told me about Spintronics and Quantum Computing - can you tell me more?

32. Who are these Extropians and Transhumanists I have been reading about?

33. Are there any books that cover the Extropian & Transhumanist movements

34. After seeing The Matrix I got to wondering about the "Simulation Argument" - can you tell me more?

35. Where can I learn more about the ethics of developing technologies like molecular manufacturing?]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=947 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:12:10 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=947 Why fund nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology has the potential to profoundly change our economy and to improve our standard of living, in a manner not unlike the impact made by advances over the past two decades by information technology. While some commercial products are beginning to come to market, many major applications for nanotechnology are still five to ten years out. Private investors look for shorter-term returns on investment, generally in the range of one to three years. Consequently, government support for basic research and development in its early stages needs to maintain a competitive position in the worldwide nanotechnology marketplace in order to realize nanotechnology’s full potential.]]> Why fund nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology has the potential to profoundly change our economy and to improve our standard of living, in a manner not unlike the impact made by advances over the past two decades by information technology. While some commercial products are beginning to come to market, many major applications for nanotechnology are still five to ten years out. Private investors look for shorter-term returns on investment, generally in the range of one to three years. Consequently, government support for basic research and development in its early stages needs to maintain a competitive position in the worldwide nanotechnology marketplace in order to realize nanotechnology’s full potential.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=946 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:11:37 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=946 How much money is the U.S. government spending on nanotechnology?

In the United States, the Federal funding for nanotechnology has increased from approximately $464 million in 2001 to nearly $1.5 billion for the 2009 fiscal year. Private industry is investing at least as much as the government, according to estimates.]]> How much money is the U.S. government spending on nanotechnology?

In the United States, the Federal funding for nanotechnology has increased from approximately $464 million in 2001 to nearly $1.5 billion for the 2009 fiscal year. Private industry is investing at least as much as the government, according to estimates.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=945 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:11:07 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=945 What is the National Nanotechnology Initiative?

The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is one of the largest federal interagency projects promoting a future in which the ability to understand and control matter at the nanoscale leads to a revolution in technology and industry that benefits society.
The Initiative coordinates the funding for nanotechnology research and development among twenty-five federal departments and agencies.

These agencies are working to advance a world-class nanotechnology research and development program leading to new products, drugs and medical devices, robust educational resources and a skilled workforce with a supporting infrastructure and tools, as well as a coordinated research strategy to study the potential environmental, health and safety impacts of nanotechnology.

The NNI expedites the discovery, development and deployment of nanoscale science and technology to serve the public good.]]> What is the National Nanotechnology Initiative?

The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is one of the largest federal interagency projects promoting a future in which the ability to understand and control matter at the nanoscale leads to a revolution in technology and industry that benefits society.
The Initiative coordinates the funding for nanotechnology research and development among twenty-five federal departments and agencies.

These agencies are working to advance a world-class nanotechnology research and development program leading to new products, drugs and medical devices, robust educational resources and a skilled workforce with a supporting infrastructure and tools, as well as a coordinated research strategy to study the potential environmental, health and safety impacts of nanotechnology.

The NNI expedites the discovery, development and deployment of nanoscale science and technology to serve the public good.]]> http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=944 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:10:29 -0700 http://naturebios.com/natureboard/showthread.php?tid=944 Where else will nanotechnology be used in the future?

Some exciting new nanotechnology-based medicines are now in clinical trials. Some use nanoparticles to deliver toxic drugs directly to tumors, while minimizing the amount of drug damages healthy tissue. Others are used to make medical imaging tools, like MRIs and CAT scans, work better and more safely. Nanotechnology is enabling scientists to find ways to make our home, cars, and businesses more energy efficient through new fuel cells, batteries, and solar panels. They are also finding ways to purify drinking water and to detect and clean up environmental waste and damage. Nanosensors in packaging may soon be able to detect food borne pathogens. New nanomaterials will be stronger, lighter and more durable than the materials we use today in buildings, bridges, automobiles, and more. Scientists have experimented with nanomaterials that bend light and may one day be able to create an “invisibility cloak.” The possibilities seem limitless and the future of nanotechnology holds great potential. For more information, see Benefits and Applications.]]> Where else will nanotechnology be used in the future?

Some exciting new nanotechnology-based medicines are now in clinical trials. Some use nanoparticles to deliver toxic drugs directly to tumors, while minimizing the amount of drug damages healthy tissue. Others are used to make medical imaging tools, like MRIs and CAT scans, work better and more safely. Nanotechnology is enabling scientists to find ways to make our home, cars, and businesses more energy efficient through new fuel cells, batteries, and solar panels. They are also finding ways to purify drinking water and to detect and clean up environmental waste and damage. Nanosensors in packaging may soon be able to detect food borne pathogens. New nanomaterials will be stronger, lighter and more durable than the materials we use today in buildings, bridges, automobiles, and more. Scientists have experimented with nanomaterials that bend light and may one day be able to create an “invisibility cloak.” The possibilities seem limitless and the future of nanotechnology holds great potential. For more information, see Benefits and Applications.]]>