Don't look now, but the nanotech revolution is already here. It began as a collection of curiosities: nano-enabled sunscreens, tennis racquets, fishing rods, and stain-resistant pants. And more are coming.
Nanotech supporters say the technology will benefit every facet of society, from energy to electronics, healthcare to telecommunications. "Nanotechnology will be woven into the fabric of science and technology in a very broad way," predicts Terry Michalske, director, Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies, Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, N. Mex. The National Science Foundation estimates that nanotechnology will create a $1 trillion (US) worldwide market by 2015, and governments worldwide are staking their claims. The US Congress has appropriated $2.36 billion over three years for nanotech R&D, while the European Union's Sixth Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development has earmarked ¤1.3 billion between 2002 and 2006. All told, public and private concerns will pour some $3 billion into nanotech this ...
