Tiny technology moves into the big time: no longer just a concept, nanoscience could drive the next industrial revolution.

• Author: Bourquard, Jo Anne

The Diamond Age by Neal Stephenson describes a 21st century "nanotech" society in which nations no longer exist and microscopic computers are used to do everything--from birth control to muscle building to surveillance. How far fetched is this futuristic scenario?

The science of the very small--nano-science--is developing rapidly, and some predict it will drive the next industrial revolution. Nanoscience refers to the manipulation and control of matter at the nano level (a nanometer is one billionth of a meter), according to the National Science Foundation. A nanometer is something you'd normally not be able to see--a sheet of paper is 100,000 nanometers thick, and a human red blood cell is more than 2,000 nanometers long. At the nano level, physical, chemical and biological properties of materials differ greatly, making it possible to develop machines and products with novel functions.

THE PROMISE

Nanotechnology is no longer just a concept. Nanoparticles are used to coat fabrics making them stain repellent and to create scratch-resistant surfaces for floors and cars. Nanoscale chemicals with the ability to absorb UV light are used to produce sunscreen without chalky residue. Silver nanocrystals are used to create antimicrobial bandages and to retard fungal and bacterial growth in appliances and air conditioners. The semi-conductor industry is using nanotechnology to create more powerful chips. Super strong tennis rackets, longer acting tennis balls, self correcting golf balls, windshield cleaners that repel rain, snow and bugs, and skin lotion customized for various weather conditions are some of the nanotech products currently on the market.

In the environmental arena, nanoproducts are expected to be a boon to water purification, clean energy and pollution control systems. Nanotechnology also offers the promise of detecting and preventing disease. It's expected to aid in the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's, cancer and heart disease, and scientists predict nanoproducts at work inside the body could destroy cancer cells, deliver drugs and act as artificial muscles. In the IT world, nanomolecules with the ability to store memory will be used to create even smaller, more efficient electronic devices. Nanotechnology might even move the Internet to light speed.

MARKET POTENTIAL

The National Science Foundations predicts the global market for nanotechnologies will reach $1 trillion in the next 20 years. Last year, the U.S. Patent and Trademark...