Nanotechnology


 * What is Nanotechnology? **

Nanotechnology is classified and encompassed by anything that is done in science, technology, or engineering on the nano scale (0.1-100 nanometers). It involves the use of an electron microscope (TEM, SEM) and/or an atom ic force microscope (AFM); all of which are commonly referr ed to as electron microscopes. Nanotechnologists disperse particles over an object using the electron microscope, which gives them the ability to see them on a nano scale, then grants them the ability to move and manipulate the objects (i.e atoms, particles, molecules). One would think that when you get down to the molecular level, that particles would react the way that we know them to act in chemistry. However, things change drastically and there is almost another dimension of chemistry and physics when objects are observed on such a small scale. Solids ripple like liquids; different amounts of the same material could be a completely different color, all because of the electron properties when viewed as individuals. Nanotechnology is in it's infancy, as far as development is concerned, and doesn't seem to to have made a main stream market yet. The nano scale frontier is as vast and untouched as ever.

Industry Trends:

Asking what the current trend in the nanotechnology field is like asking, “What is THE favorite ice cream?”. There are numerous endeavors and research projects being conducted right now that are as extreme and diverse as the difference in peoples taste. Much of what is being created and researched is highly opinionated as to what is most important in the industry. It is an industry that is constantly changing and building upon the ventures, research, and developments of predecessors and peers alike. One of the most common trends right now is the use of nano-sized particles to coat certain objects with another material. By using nanotechnology to apply the materials to an object you reduce the amount of the applying material as well as get a more precision based application. The material goes further toward surface area and the cost of production is greatly reduced.

Another area of research is concerning the use of nanotech in the solar power industry. Scientists are currently underway to create a smaller, better device to capture the solar energy that reaches our planet everyday. They are trying to find the right combination of materials to maximize the absorption into small squares of silica that would then be able to transfer the energy directly into mobile devices or permanent structures. The key is coating objects so that the entire surface area is constantly collecting the solar power.

Overall the largest trend in the industry is the discovery of new methods of creating and understanding nano structures and their behavior.

Possible applications to Nanotechnology:

Nano Motors


Nano motors are made in nature more than we think. The way that cells move involves a great deal of nano motors. This bacterial flagellum has curved tentacles, which rotate and give it the ability to propel itself. At the base of each tentacle is protein-constructed rotor located just beneath the exterior of the cell wall. Copying that same idea, nanotechnologists have started creating motors out of a variety of materials for numerous application purposes. The key is that they can construct them out of materials that are native to the environment and/or would not be attacked by a biological host.

The highest benefits are being projected into the medical field, as far as nano motors are concerned. Imagine someone with high blood pressure being able to take a pill, containing billions of nanobots, with the ability to search out and remove platelets that are constricting blood flow within the veins. The nano bots would never die or run out of battery, but be able to sustain themselves off the nutrients of the body, the same as all the cells. They would have the ability, and programming, to stay within the body and continue working indefinitely. The possibilities are staggering at how immensely world changing even just a few innovations could be.

= Area Focus =

The area focus of nanotechnology would need a great deal of physics, chemistry, engineering, and possibly some type of hazardous material safety courses. When you get down onto the nano scale objects stop reacting in a physical way and start reacting more along the lines of objects in space. The chemistry is important, but pretty much goes out the window. Physics would be your highest course succession and the hazardous materials would be a must to make sure that no one is creating potentially disastrous materials. PHY 121 PHY 131 CHM 231 CHM 237 NAN 506 NAN 591 NAN 593

The Bachelor of Science in Technological Entrepreneurship and Management (TEM) bridges the gap between technology and business for students who want to launch their own technology-based ventures, profit or non-profit, or prepare for a career in product/service design and development, or technology management. TEM is a collaborative effort bringing together faculty from diverse programs focused on entrepreneurship and technological advances across campuses