Celebrating the first National Nanotechnology Day
The U.S. Nanotechnology community will come together to celebrate the first National Nanotechnology Day on October 9, 2016 (an homage to the nanometer scale, 10-9 meters). The annual event will serve as a day to inform the public about nanotechnology, to share the accomplishments of the industry and to promote the future possibilities and benefits nanotechnology offers.
Nanotechnology is the science of extremely small structures generally measuring less than 100 nanometers. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. To better visualize the size of a nanometer, imagine the size of a soccer ball relative to the size of the earth. This is roughly the same relation of the size of a nanometer to the size of a soccer ball. Nanotechnology studies the properties and behaviors of these structures and how they can improve our way of life.
In fact, earlier this week three nanotechnology scientists were awarded the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work on manipulating individual atoms to create self-powered nanoscale machines. Their work has tremendous potential for transforming drug delivery, enhancing energy storage and developing material with new useful properties.
Nanotechnology has gone from laboratory curiosity to improving many aspects of our everyday lives. It is being used to create new purification methods to help provide cleaner water by filtering pollutants in the ground and waterways. Nanotechnology enhances our national security by improving our abilities to detect chemical or biological threats while also contributing to the enhanced performance of military equipment. Within the medical field nanotechnology is improving doctors’ ability to detect the presence of cancerous cells and other medical conditions while also providing a new approach to treatments. Nanotechnology has also increased our ability to be more energy efficient by improving solar panels, strengthening wind turbines, developing lighter vehicle components and increasing fuel efficiency.
The National Nanotechnology Initiative plays a critical role in coordinating research, investments and education efforts across the federal government. Alongside these efforts, the American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) Nanotechnology Panel is at the forefront of ensuring the responsible development of nanotechnologies domestically and internationally and providing a scientifically sound approach to nanotechnology policy.
To learn more about the Nanotechnology Panel or to inquire about joining the panel, contact Jay West at jay_west@americanchemistry.com.
