- Nanotechnology: An Introduction to Applications and Ethical and Social Issues

KEY WORDS: nanotechnology, nanoparticle, nanotube, nanosize material, quantum dot, buckyball, nanoshell, MEMS, ethical and social issues, nanomedicine, risk assessment, uncertainties, lab safetyCONTENTSIntroduction .............................................................................................................2 De«nitions ................................................................................................................3 Evolution of Nanotechnology ...............................................................................4 Characteristics of Bulk and Nanosize Materials ............................................... 12 Applications of Nanotechnology ........................................................................ 12Nanotechnology in the Military ..................................................................... 20 Nanotechnology in Medicine .........................................................................23Nanotechnology and Education and the Workforce of the Future ................23 Ethical and Social Implications of Nanotechnology ........................................ 24 Law and Policy Issues .......................................................................................... 31 Conclusion ............................................................................................................. 31 Scenario 1: Accident at a Nanoparticle Manufacturing Plant.........................34 Scenario 2: Release of Carbon Nanotubes into the Atmosphere ....................34 Case Study 1: Language and Technology-Communication from the Past: Relics of Mohenjodaro ................................................................................35 Case Study 2: Industrial Revolution, Information Revolution, and Nanotechnology Revolution ...............................................................................36 Case Study 3: Nanotechnology and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)—A Win-Win Combination ...................................................................... 39 Case Study 4: Brain Damage and Potential of Nanomedicine .......................40 Case Study 5: Nanotechnology and Globalization .......................................... 41 Case Study 6: Nanotechnology Lab Environment and Safety ........................42 References ...............................................................................................................43 Appendix A: Nanotechnology Equipment and Tools .....................................46 Appendix B: Nanotechnology Products ............................................................58 Nanotechnology National Initiative (NNI): List of Participating Departments and Agencies ..............................................64The role of the in«nitely small is in«nitely large.