INTRODUCTION:

Nanotechnology is a field of science that involves building materials and devices using
single atoms and molecules. Computers that used to occupy an entire room are now the
size of notebooks. The human race has always pushed for technological advances
working at the most efficient level, perhaps, the molecular level. The developments and
progress in artificial intelligence and molecular technology have innovated a new form
of technology; Nanotechnology.

The term nano evolved to describe the measurements ,which were even smaller than
micro units(10^ -6),1 nano unit is 10^ -9 times the unit size-which is 1000 times smaller
than microunit. Nanotechnology which is referred in short as "Nanotech", is the study of
the control of matter on an atomic and molecular scale. Nano means very small. In Greek
nano means "dwarf". A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. A human hair is 80,000 to
100,000 thick. Everything must be done with special equipment and microscopes.

Nanotechnology is related to structures of the size 100 nanometers or smaller than that
and developing devices of the size within that range. When we are talking about
nanotechnology ,we are talking about research and development in the length scale of .1
nanometers to 100 nanometers to create unique structures, devices, and systems.

The evolved version of the term “nanotechnology” is more properly labeled "nanoscale
bulk technology," while the original meaning is now more properly labeled "molecular
nanotechnology (MNT)” or "nanoscale engineering," or "molecular mechanics," or
"molecular machine systems," or "molecular manufacturing. " The Foresight Institute has
suggested an alternate term to represent the original meaning of nanotechnology :
zettatechnology.

But in many instances the actual structures, devices, and systems will be much larger, but
they will be classified as nanotechnology due to the fact that they will either be created at
the nanoscale or nanotechnology will enable them to perform new and improved
functions. For example, with advancement in nanotechnology, it can be possible to see
the world in which microscopic robots are sent into the human body with the mission of
detecting cancer cells, which will be then disassembled by the robots , and finally the
disassembled cancer cells can be sent out of the bloodstream as waste products. In the
future many of the things in the world will most likely involve or be influenced by
nanotechnology. This includes computers, clothing, medical science and the
environment.

Nanotechnology will enable the construction of giga-operational computers smaller than

a cubic micron; cell repair machines; personal manufacturing and recycling plants; and
much more. Nanotechnology has many life-altering possibilities. It can be linked to many
fields of study and is being developed in present day laboratories by the combined efforts
of many fields.
Though nanotechnology is related to in molecular and small magnitudes,it has vast
number of related fields. These includes : Nanomaterials, Nanomedicine,
Nanobiotechnology, Nanolithography, Nanoelectronics, Nanomagnetics, Nanorobots,
Biodevices (biomolecular machinery), AI, MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems),
NEMS (NanoElectroMechanical Systems), Biomimetic Materials, Microencapsulation,
and many others.

The following devices and capabilities appear to be both physically possible and
practically realizable with nanotechnology:

• Programmable positioning of reactive molecules with ~0.1 nm precision

• Mechanosynthesis at >106operations/device · second

• Mechanosynthetic assembly of 1 kg objects in <104 s

• Nanomechanical systems operating at ~109 Hz

• Logic gates that occupy ~10–26 m3 (~10– 8 m3)

• Logic gates that switch in ~0.1 ns and dissipate <10– 21 J

• Computers that perform 1016 instructions per second per watt

• Cooling of cubic-centimeter, ~105 W systems at 300 K

• Compact 1015 MIPS parallel computing systems

• Mechanochemical power conversion at >109 W/m3

• Electromechanical power conversion at >1015 W/m3

• Macroscopic components with tensile strengths >5×1010 Pa

• Production systems that can double capital stocks in <104 s

Being as small as they are, nanostructures require fine particles that can only be seen with
the STM, or Scanning Tunneling Microscope. Moreover the STM allows the scientists
to not only see things at the molecular level, but it can pick up and move atoms as well.
HISTORY:

The discovery of nanotechnology is actually quite new. On December 29, 1959,

physicist, Richard Feynman described a process by which the ability to manipulate
individual atoms and molecules might be developed, using one set of precise tools to
build and operate another proportionally smaller set. The term "nanotechnology" was
defined by Tokyo Science University Professor Norio Taniguchi in a 1974 as: " 'Nano-
technology' mainly consists of the processing of, separation, consolidation, and
deformation of materials by one atom or by one molecule.” The first breakthrough
experiment was when IBM (International Business Machine) was able to draw a write the
letters I, B, and M on a nickel crystal surface using individual Xenon atoms. The three
letters were a combined 50 billionths of an inch wide. This simple, and pointless
experiment, finally gave evidence that individual atoms could be manipulated by human
hands. This spurred a great leap into the design of nanotechnology theory. Dr. Eric
Drexler began the first comprehensive study of nanotechnology theory in 1986 when he
wrote his book entitled “Engines of Creation: The Coming Era of Nanotechnology”. This
book is considered as the first book on the topic of nanotechnology. In his book Drexler
outlined the basic principles behind current nanotechnology theory. Drexler states that
life as we know it now shows us that nanotechnology is possible. The entire basis of
nanotechnology is the creation of what Drexler calls an “assembler”. An assembler is a
nanoscopically small robot that manipulates individual atoms through contained chemical
reactions to assemble the atoms into desired molecular patterns. Such an assembler could
build a one hundred percent pure diamond literally out of thin air. The assemblers of most
organic life are called ribosomes. These tiny little cells, which are only a few cubic
nanometers large, can build proteins out of the amino acids that they gather from there
surroundings. These proteins are the basis for all life on Earth, because it is through these
proteins that DNA is created. The birth of cluster science and the invention of the
scanning tunneling microscope (STM) and carbon nanotubes are major developments
made in nanotechnology in 1980s.

Here are few people who had major influence in nanotechnology:

K. Eric Drexler: Dr. Drexler is a researcher concerned with emerging technologies and
their consequences for the future. In the mid 1980s, he introduced the term
'nanotechnology' to describe atomically precise molecular manufacturing systems and
their products. Advanced nanotechnologies will make possible many dreams (and
nightmares) first articulated in the literature of science fiction. He is a founder and
current Chairman of the Foresight Institute, a nonprofit educational organization
established to help prepare for advanced technologies. He wrote Engines of Creation
(1986) to introduce a broad audience to the prospect of advanced nanotechnologies -
their nature, promise, and dangers – and Nanosystems (AAP 1992 Most Outstanding
Computer Science Book) to provide a graduate-level introduction to the fundamental
physical and engineering principles of the field.
Gerd Binnig & Heinrich Rohrer: Inventors of the Scanning Tunneling Microscope
(1981), and awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for their work in scanning
tunneling microscopy [which they shared with Ernst Ruska, designer of the first electron
microscope]. An STM can image details down to 1/25th the diameter of an atom - several
orders of magnitude better than the best electron microscope. Dr. Binnig was appointed
an IBM Fellow in 1987 and remains a research staff member at IBM's Zurich Research
Laboratory.

Ralph Merkle, Ph.D.: Dr. Merkle received his Ph.D. from Standford University in 1979
where he co-invented public key cryptography. He joined Xerox PARC in 1988, pursuing
research in computational nanotechnology until 1999. He was co-recipient of the 1998
Feynman Prize for Nanotechnology Theory, and was co-recipient of the ACM's
Kanellakis Award for Theory and Practice, and the 2000 RSA Award in Mathematics. He
did presentation on the Long and medium term goals in molecular nanotechnology. He
has been at Zyvex since 1999, where he continues his nanotechnology research.

Basic Fundamentals:

There are two main approaches used in nanotechnology.They are “bottom-up” approach
and “top-down” approach. In the "bottom-up" approach, materials and devices are built
from molecular components which assemble themselves chemically by principles of
molecular recognition. These seek to arrange smaller components into more complex
assemblies. In the "top-down" approach, nano-objects are constructed from larger entities
without atomic-level control. These seek to create smaller devices by using larger ones to
direct their assembly.

The original meaning of nanotechnology is now more properly labeled as "molecular

nanotechnology (MNT)” or "nanoscale engineering," or "molecular mechanics," or
"molecular machine systems," or "molecular manufacturing. Molecular nanotechnology
(MNT) is a term given to the concept of engineered nanosystems operating on the
molecular scale. It is especially associated with the concept of a molecular assembler

At the most basic technical level, MNT is building, with design in molecule by molecule,
these two things: 1) incredibly advanced and extremely capable nano-scale and micro-
scale machines and computers, and 2) ordinary size objects, using other incredibly small
machines called assemblers. Assembler is a machine that can produce a desired structure
or device atom-by-atom using the principles of mechanosynthesis

By taking advantage of quantum-level properties, MNT allows for unprecedented control

of the material world, at the nanoscale, providing the means by which systems and
materials can be built with exacting specifications and characteristics. MNT represents
the state of the art in advances in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, computer
science and mathematics. The major research objectives in MNT are the design,
modeling, and fabrication of molecular machines and molecular devices. The emergence
of MNT has resulted to numerous social, legal, cultural, ethical, religious, philosophical
and political implications.

MNT is going to be responsible for massive changes in the way we live, the way we
interact with one another and our environment, and the things we are capable of doing.
While there is great debate as to when MNT will start to seriously impact us, best guesses
range from around 2015 to as late as 2025. So, it is certain to have major impact the
lifetime of everyone currently under 60 years of age. Within the next 10-20 years, we
should have a manufacturing technology which will be able to: build products with
almost every atom in the right place; it would be possible to do it in an inexpensive way;
make most arrangements of atoms consistent with physical law. Often called
nanotechnology or molecular nanotechnology, it will let us make most products lighter,
stronger, smarter, cheaper, cleaner and more precise. But, MNT seems more theoretical
than the other subfields and is beyond current capabilities.

Assumptions, principles, and some specific recommendations intended

to provide a basis for responsible development of molecular
nanotechnology

Development Principles

1. Artificial replicators must not be capable of replication in a natural, uncontrolled

environment.
2. Evolution within the context of a self-replicating manufacturing system is
discouraged.
3. Any replicated information should be error free.
4. MNT device designs should specifically limit proliferation and provide
traceability of any replicating systems.
5. Developers should attempt to consider systematically the environmental
consequences of the technology, and to limit these consequences to intended
effects. This requires significant research on environmental models, risk
management, as well as the theory, mechanisms, and experimental designs for
built-in safeguard systems.
6. Industry self-regulation should be designed in whenever possible. Economic
incentives could be provided through discounts on insurance policies for MNT
development organizations that certify Guidelines compliance. Willingness to
provide self-regulation should be one condition for access to advanced forms of
the technology.
7. Distribution of molecular manufacturing development capability should be
restricted, whenever possible, to responsible actors that have agreed to use the
Guidelines. No such restriction need apply to end products of the development
process that satisfy the Guidelines.
Specific Design Guidelines

1. Any self-replicating device which has sufficient onboard information to describe

its own manufacture should encrypt it such that any replication error will
randomize its blueprint.
2. Encrypted MNT device instruction sets should be utilized to discourage
irresponsible proliferation and piracy.
3. Mutation (autonomous and otherwise) outside of sealed laboratory conditions,
should be discouraged.
4. Replication systems should generate audit trails.
5. MNT device designs should incorporate provisions for built-in safety
mechanisms, such as: 1) absolute dependence on a single artificial fuel source or
artificial "vitamins" that don't exist in any natural environment; 2) making devices
that are dependent on broadcast transmissions for replication or in some cases
operation; 3) routing control signal paths throughout a device, so that
subassemblies do not function independently; 4) programming termination dates
into devices, and 5) other innovations in laboratory or device safety technology
developed specifically to address the potential dangers of MNT.
6. MNT developers should adopt systematic security measures to avoid unplanned
distribution of their designs and technical capabilities.

SIZE:

Nanotechnology is measured in nanometers (nm). A micron is a thousandth of a

thousandth of a meter. That is to say a micron is a millionth of a meter, which is the scale
that is relevant to - for instance - building computers, computer memory, and logic
devices.

A nanometer is:

- 1 billionth of a meter

- which is 1 millionth of a centimeters

- 1 hundred thousandth of a millimeter

That means to see a nanometer at a scale of 1cm you would have to zoom in a million
times. It's hard to put into perspective but a sheet of paper is 100,000 nanometers thick.
Another perspective is a nanometer is about the width of six bonded carbon atoms, and
approximately 40,000 are needed to equal the width of an average human hair. A
Hydrogen atom is 0.1nm.

A nanometer is also smaller than the size of a cell in your body. It is for that reason that a
lot of research goes into uses in medicine as nanodevices someday may be small enough
to interact with human genes and proteins. For our purposes, nanometers pertain to
science, technology, manufacturing, chemistry, health sciences, materials science, space
programs, and engineering.

APPLICATIONS:

In computers:

Computers have changed over the years. We no longer need an entire room to house a
single computer. Now we have tiny computers that fit in the palm of your hand.
Computing power has increased tremendously. As technology advances, the computer
seems to get more powerful and smaller. Now, scientists are looking at the amazing
potential of using nanotechnology to make computers on a microscopic scale. These
proposed computers are called Nanocomputers. They will be smaller, faster and require
less power than previous versions.

Researchers all over the world are working to come up with the best designs to actually
build these nanocomputers. There are several trains of thought about what process to use
and how to make it all work. There are different types of nanocomputers proposed. These
include electronic, Chemical, biochemical and mechanical nanocomputers. They will all
use different parts and technology that isn't perfected yet. One such technology is
hypercubes. Hypercubes are multidimensional structures that could be used for
nanocomputers on a quantum level.

It is understood that nanoscale crystals of ferroelectric materials can be altered by an

electrical field and retain any changes. As the crystals do not revert spontaneously, RAM
made with them would not be erased if there is a power failure. Working with
nanotechnology makes Nonvolatile random access memory (NVRAM) possible. It means
higher density memories with faster speeds and megabyte or even gigabyte capacity is
made possible. Laptop computers would no longer need back-up batteries, permitting
them to be made still smaller and lighter. There would be a similar impact on cell phones.

Holding data for billion years:

100 gigabits of data per square inch on today’s memory cards has an estimated life
expectancy of only 10 to 30 years. Today’s highest-density experimental storage media
can retain ultra-dense data for only a fraction of a second. New computer memory device
that can store thousands of times more data than conventional silicon chips with an
estimated lifetime of more than one billion years can be created using nanoparticles.

The researchers describe development of an experimental memory device consisting of

an iron nanoparticle (1/50,000 the width of a human hair) enclosed in a hollow carbon
nanotube. In the presence of electricity, the nanoparticle can be shuttled back and forth
with great precision. This creates a programmable memory system that, like a silicon
chip, can record digital information and play it back using conventional computer
hardware. In lab and theoretical studies, the researchers showed that the device had a
storage capacity as high as 1 terabyte per square inch (a trillion bits of information) and
temperature-stability in excess of one billion years.

Fast Computers:

Magnetic fields created using nanotechnology could make computers up to 500 times
more powerful if new research is successful. Computers double in power every 18
months or so as scientists and engineers develop ways to make silicon chips smaller. But
in the next few years they will hit a limit imposed by the need to use electric wiring,
which weakens signals sent between computer components at high speed. The new
research project could produce a way of carrying electric signal without the need for
wiring.

The process, called inverse electron spin resonance, uses the magnetic field to deflect
electrons and to modify their magnetic direction. This creates oscillations of the electrons
which makes them produce microwave energy. This can then be used to broadcast
electric signals in free space without the weakening caused by wires. If this research is
successful, it could make computers with wireless semi-conductors a possibility within
five or ten years of the end of the project. Then computers could be made anything from
200 to 500 times quicker and still be the same size.

In medicine:

Imagine a world without cancer, a world without sickness and death. This dream is
possible due to the amazing world of nanotechnology-its subdivision- nanomedicine.
Nanomedicine can be defined as the application of nanotechnology to the prevention and
treatment of diseases in the human body. The molecular level at which nanotechnology
operates, gives it the possibility to repair or destroy cells and also replace them with
living bio-machines. Nanotechnology will aid the medical world in doing tasks at the
molecular level such as destroying cancerous cells and treating patients more accurately.

The longer range future of nanotechnology in medicine is referred to as nanomedicine.

This involves the use of manufactured nano-robots to make repairs at the cellular level.

Applications of nanotechnology in medicine currently being developed involve

employing nano-particles to deliver drugs, heat, light or other substances to specific cells
in the human body. Engineering particles to be used in this way allows detection and
treatment of diseases or injuries within the targeted cells, thereby minimizing the damage
to healthy cells in the body.

While most applications of nanotechnology in medicine are still under development

nanocrystalline silver is already being used as a antimicrobial agent in the treatment of
wounds. Some other new advancements are-Qdots that identify the location of cancer
cells in the body.Nanoparticles that deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells to
minimize damage to healthy cells.Nanoshells that concentrate the heat from infrared light
to destroy cancer cells with minimal damage to surrounding healthy cells.Nanotubes used
in broken bones to provide a structure for new bone material to grow.Nanoparticles that
can attach to cells infected with various diseases and allow a doctor to identify, in a blood
sample, the particular disease. CytImmune Gold nanoparticles for targeted delivery of
drugs to tumors.Nucryst Antimicrobial wound dressings using silver nanocrystals.
Nanobiotix Nanoparticles that target tumor cells, when irradiated by xrays the
nanoparticles generate electrons which cause localized destruction of the tumor cells.
Oxonica Disease identification using gold nanoparticles (biomarkers). Nanotherapeutics
Nanoparticles for improving the performance of drug delivery by oral, inhaled or nasal
methods. NanoBio Nanoemulsions for nasal delivery to fight viruses (such as the flu and
colds) and bacteriaBioDelivery Sciences Oral drug delivery of drugs encapuslated in a
nanocrystalline structure called a cochleate. NanoBioMagnetics Magnetically responsive
nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery and other applications include Z-Medica Medical
gauze containing aluminosilicate nanoparticles which help bood clot faster in open
wounds.

Nanotech has the potential to instantly diagnose and treat disease. That’s key in
developing countries. Meanwhile, in the developed world, nanotech will deliver medicine
into the hands of individuals.

Some examples of how nanotechnology impacts our lives now:

Nanocomposites:
Researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have developed a coating process
to make sponge-like silica latch onto toxic metals in water. Self-Assembled Monolayers
on Mesoporous Supports easily captures such metals as lead and mercury, which are then
recovered for reuse or contained in-place forever. A plastic nanocomposite is being used
for "step assists" in the GM Safari and Astro Vans. It is scratch-resistant, light-weight,
and rust-proof, and generates improvements in strength and reductions in weight, which
lead to fuel savings and increased longevity. It can be seen on areas of vehicles, as well
as the other auto manufactures, lowering weight, increasing milage, and creating longer-
lasting autos. Strong and light sounds are like the perfect recipe for a golf club, of
course, which is why so many golf club manufacturers are now devoting big bucks to
nano R&D.

Nanocrystals:

Nanocrystals of various metals have been found to be as much as 300 percent harder than
the same materials in bulk form. Because wear resistance often is dictated by the
hardness of a metal, parts made from nanocrystals might last significantly longer than
conventional parts. Metal nanocrystals might be used to produce bearings that last longer
than their conventional counterparts, new types of sensors and components for computers
and electronic hardware. Nanocrystals absorb then re-emit the light in a different color -
the size of the nanocrystal determines the color. Nanocrystals are an ideal light harvester
in photovoltaic devices. They absorb sunlight more strongly than dye molecules or bulk
semiconductor material, therefore high optical densities can be achieved while
maintaining the requirement of thin films.

Nanoparticles:

Sunscreens are utilizing nanoparticles that are extremely effective at absorbing light,
especially in the ultra-violet (UV) range. Due to the particle size, they spread more easily,
cover better, and save money since you use less. And they are transparent, unlike
traditional screens which are white. Using aluminum nanoparticles, rocket propellants
have been created that burn at double the rate. They also produce copper nanoparticles
that are incorporated into automotive lubricant to reduce engine wear.

Human bone is made of a calcium and phosphate composite called Hydroxyapatite. By

manipulation calcium and phosphate at the molecular level, a patented material is created
that is identical in structure and composition to natural bone. This novel synthetic bone
can be used in areas where natural bone is damaged or removed, such as in the in the
treatment of fractures and soft tissue injuries.

Nanotubes:

Nanoledge – a reputed nanotech company- makes carbon nanotubes for commercial uses,
of which one daily use is in a tennis racket, made by Babolat. The yoke of the racket
bends less during ball impact, improving the player's performance. Everywhere strength
and weight are a factor - such as in the aerospace, automobile, and airplane industries -
they will have a major impact. Nanotube-based screens are in use everywhere.

Nano-structured materials:

Nanodyne makes a tungsten-carbide-cobalt composite powder (grain size less than 15nm)
that is used to make a sintered alloy as hard as diamond, which is in turn used to make
cutting tools, drill bits, armor plate, and jet engine parts.So,it impacts every industry that
requires hardness and durability.

Kodak has produced OLED color screens (made of nanostructured polymer films) for use
in car stereos and cell phones. OLEDs (organic light emitting diodes) enables thinner,
lighter, more flexible, less power consuming displays, and other consumer products such
as cameras, PDAs, laptops, televisions. This will slowly replace LCDs and Plasma just
like how CRT was replaced. OLED screens are thinnest as well as they can be bent to our
desire and help power-saving to a large extent.

Others:
Nanoclays and nanocomposites are used in packaging beer bottles, as a barrier, allowing
for thinner material, with a subsequently lighter weight, and greater shelf-life. Reduced
weight also means transportation costs decline.

Nanocomposite coatings are used in tennis balls. These days tennis balls have a
nanocomposite coating that keeps it bouncing twice as long as an old-style ball. Made by
InMat LLC, this nanocomposite is a mix of butyl rubber, intermingled with nanoclay
particles, giving the ball substantially longer shelf life.They are also used in tyres to make
it lighter (better mileage) and last longer (better cost performance).

Nanocatalysts will enable it to liquify coal and turn it into gas. The process uses a gel-
based nanoscale catalyst, which improves the efficiency and reduces the cost. It can
economically transform coal into diesel fuel and gasoline, coal-rich countries such as the
U.S., China and Germany could depend far less on imported oil. At the same time, acid-
rain pollution would be reduced because the liquefaction strips coal of harmful sulfur.

IMPLICATIONS:

SOCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL IMPACTS:

Due to the far-ranging claims that have been made about potential applications of
nanotechnology, a number of serious concerns have been raised about what effects these
will have on our society if realized, and what action if any is appropriate to mitigate these
risks.

There are possible dangers that arise with the development of nanotechnology. The
Center for Responsible Nanotechnology suggests that new developments could result,
among other things, in untraceable weapons of mass destruction, networked cameras for
use by the government, and weapons developments fast enough to destabilize arms races.

Another major area of concern is the effect that industrial-scale manufacturing and use of
nanomaterials would have on human health and the environment, as suggested by
nanotoxicology research. Groups such as the Center for Responsible Nanotechnology
have advocated that nanotechnology should be specially regulated by governments for
these reasons. But others counter this kind of overregulation saying it would hinder
scientific research and the development of innovations which could greatly benefit
mankind.

Berkeley, California is currently the only city in the United States to regulate
nanotechnology; Cambridge, Massachusetts in 2008 considered enacting a similar law,
but ultimately rejected this.Amid the global economic crisis and job cuts,there is threat to
job losses as well
Safety:

Nanotechnology is an important emerging industry with a projected annual market of

around one trillion US dollars by 2015. Although it has been beneficial to us in many
ways including medicine, concerns are growing that it may have toxic effects,
particularly damage to the lungs. Although nanoparticles have been linked to lung
damage, it has not been clear how they cause it. Lung damage is the chief human toxicity
concern surrounding nanotechnology, with studies showing that most nanoparticles
migrate to the lungs.

Nanomedicine holds great significance for the future, particularly for diseases such as
cancer and viral infections, but safety concerns have recently attracted great attention and
with the technology evolving rapidly, there is a need to find a way to protect workers and
consumers from any toxic effects that might come with it.

Chinese researchers discovered that a class of nanoparticles being widely developed in

medicine - ployamidoamine dendrimers (PAMAMs) - causes lung damage by triggering
a type of programmed cell death known as autophagic cell death. They also showed that
using an autophagy inhibitor prevented the cell death and counteracted nanoparticle-
induced lung damage in mice. Nanomaterials are now used in a variety of products,
including sporting goods, cosmetics and electronics. The fact that unusual physical,
chemical, and biological properties can emerge in materials at the nanoscale makes them
particularly appealing for medicine, Thankfully, new inhibitors to block lung damage is
being studied,and such compounds can increase the safety of nanomedicine, compounds
could be developed that could either be incorporated into the nano product to protect
against lung damage, or patients could be given pills to counteract the effects.

OTHER IMPACTS:

Renewable Energy:

In 2000, according to IEA, world energy statistics 2002, all renewables contributed only
13.8% of the world’s energy supply. This included 2.3% hydroenergy, 11% combustible
renewables and waste, and 0.5% other, including geothermal, solar, wind, heat etc. The
outlook for 2010 is a reduction in all renewable energies to 12.9% and for 2020 to 2.3%
of total energy supply assuming no new measures are taken. Total energy consumption is
forecast to grow by 20% by 2020. CO2 production will grow by 14% unless new policy
measures are implemented. There is also need to reduce CO2 production by 8%
compared to 1990,as there have been pressure from all-over the world because of impacts
of CO2 in climate change. They are committed to increasing the share of renewables in
total energy supply from 6-12% and to improve energy efficiency. Energy security is also
a reason for some governments to invest in alternative energy sources. Energy security
means that governments want to reduce the dependence on one energy source, such as
oil, the supply of which can be threatened by conflicts in strategic regions such as the
middle east.

It is expected that there will be potential breakthroughs in Solar PV or Hydrogen the

coming decades. They explicitly mention nanotechnologies including nanotubes. The
first scenario, Dynamics as Usual, foresees that the share of renewable energy will rise
fast until 2020, followed by stagnation and a next generation of renewables after 2030.
The share of renewables other than biofuels could be 22% of primary energy production
in 2050. It also outlines the emergence of a Hydrogen economy, based on technological
breakthroughs including Carbon nanotubes and nanofibres. Nanostructured materials
such as nanofoams can play a role in energy saving. Industrial production can also
contribute to energy saving by using less energy or materials for the same number of
products or by making the products such as cars lighter, hence more energy efficient in
their use,which can be achieved by nanotechnology.

For some of the needs for new energy transformation technologies, researchers are
developing new nanostructured materials or nanocomponents. Fuel cells for transforming
hydrogen or other gasses (natural gas, methanol) into electricity is a well known example.
But researchers are also working on less visible nanotechnologies such as catalysts and
membranes for separating different types of gases. These can be used in fuel cells or
other energy transforming technologies.

Solar Photovoltaics

Solar PhotoVoltaic electricity production is the most obvious technology where

nanostructured materials and nanotechnology are contributing to technology
development. Currently, the world market for solar PV panels is about 600MW per year
in 2005 (source: Photon International 9/2006 ). Solar PV is already competitive in
electricity production for homes or villages in remote areas without a connection to the
electricity grid (source: Franz Karg in Shell Venster, 2006). Governments in the US,
Europe and Japan are subsidising both technology development and installation of PV
modules on roofs and integrated in new buildings for private homes, companies, or even
churches (in Germany). The dominant technologies are at the moment mono or
multicrystalline silicon, together about 70% of market share in 2005, expected to
diminish to about 60% in 2010 (source: Sarasin Bank in Photon International 9/2006).
The solar cells are produced by sawing 0.2-0.3 mm thin wafers from lumps of silicon
(Ronald van Zolingen, Technical University of Eindhoven, Netherlands). The problem is
that this uses a lot of expensive material, about half of which gets wasted in the sawing
process.

Thin film nanostructured alternatives which are currently on the market use an active
layer of microns thickness, deposited on a cheap substrate such as glass. These
alternatives include amorphous silicon, which is best known from its use in pocket
calculators, but is also used in solar panels, on the market for about 15 years. Amorphous
silicon is cheaper than crystalline silicon, because it uses 300x less active material. The
efficiency is much lower, less than 10% compared to 15%.

Two other available thin film alternatives which entered the market are Copper Indium
diSelenide (CIS), and Cadmium Telluride CdTe. The market chances of the CdTe
technology may be diminished because of environmental concerns. Cadmium is a toxic
material.

Metallic III-V high performance cells are mostly used in space applications, but also in
concentrator cells. Concentrator cells consist of a relatively expensive efficient solar cell,
and a device which funnels the incoming sunlight from a wider area to the cell. In the lab,
efficiencies up to 40% have been measured. But real world manufacturing never achieves
the same high efficiencies.

One problem with thin film solar PV based on nanotechnology is that energy conversion
is even less efficient than in crystalline silicon. According to a spokesperson from BP
Solar (2006), the main bottleneck in thin film PV manufacturing is that nobody can
produce large enough areas of the thin films on an industrial scale.

Batteries:

Batteries are needed to supply electrical energy when you can’t get it from the electricity
grid. This includes mobile applications such as mobile phones, walkmans, but also home
or even village power supply in remote areas and in back up systems in case the grid goes
down. In the future, rechargeable batteries will be even more needed in combination with
renewable electricity production such as by solar photovoltaics. The sun does not shine
when you need the light the most: at night. Even though at the moment both rechargeable
and non-rechargeable batteries are available on the market, the trend is towards
rechargeables.

There are basically two types of rechargeable batteries where nanostructured materials
are applied. The first and most advanced is Lithium based, for example Li-ion batteries.
These are dry batteries. The other type, wet batteries, uses basically the same materials as
for hydrogen storage, and are based on metal hydrides, where hydrogen is the chemical
energy carrier, or carbon nanotubes.

ETHICS OF NANOTECHNOLOGY:

A strong set of operating principles is needed - standards by which we can lead ourselves
to a healthier future and prevent weapons development and other hazards.There has been
calls for tighter regulation of nanotechnology alongside a growing debate related to the
human health and safety risks associated with nanotechnology.
The following are some ethical guidelines from both Foresight Institute, The Center for
Responsible Nanotechnology (CRN),and The Nanoethics Group :

* Nanotechnology's highest and best use should be to create a world of abundance where
no one is lacking for their basic needs. Those needs include adequate food, safe water, a
clean environment, housing, medical care, education, public safety, fair labor,
unrestricted travel, artistic expression and freedom from fear and oppression.

* High priority must be given to the efficient and economical global distribution of the
products and services created by nanotechnology. We recognize the need for reasonable
return on investment, but we must also recognize that our planet is small and we all
depend upon each other for safety, stability, even survival.

* Military research and applications of nanotechnology must be limited to defense and

security systems, and not for political purposes or aggression. And any government-
funded research that generates useful non-military technological advances must be made
available to the public.

* Scientists developing and experimenting with nanotechnology must have a solid

grounding in ecology and public safety, or have someone on their team who does.
Scientists and their organizations must also be held accountable for the willful, fraudulent
or irresponsible misuse of the science.

* All published research and discussion of nanotechnology should be accurate as

possible, adhere to the scientific method, and give due credit to sources. Labeling of
products should be clear and accurate, and promotion of services, including consulting,
should disclose any conflicts of interest.

* Published debates over nanotechnology, including chat room discussions, should focus
on advancing the merits of the arguments rather than personal attacks, such as
questioning the motives of opponents.

* Business models in the field should incorporate long-term, sustainable practices, such
as the efficient use of resources, recycling of toxic materials, adequate compensation for
workers and other fair labor practices.

* Industry leaders should be collaborative and self-regulating, but also support public
education in the sciences and reasonable legislation to deal with legal and social issues
associated with nanotechnology.

The Center for Responsible Nanotechnology (CRN) is a non-profit organization, was

founded by Chris Phoenix and Mike Treder in December 2002. CRN was formed for the
upliftment and safe use of molecular nanotechnology. The purpose of CRN is to use
nanotechnology widely for productive and beneficial purposes of mankind, and where
malicious uses are limited by effective administration of the technology.

“Future Brief”conducted a poll on following questions regarding the impacts of

technology in future:

Which of the following technologies do you believe will have the greatest
impact on your every-day life ten years from now?

Unsurprisingly, most people believed nanotech and genetic engineering to have major
impacts in future.With concept of cloning , hereditary variations various kinds of DNA
mutation : apparently swine flu is also said to be caused because of DNA mutation-
genetic engineering seems to have massive impact. Nanotechnology was seen to have the
second greatest impact, trailing only genetic engineering.

Genetic engineering - Manipulating genetic material: 31%

Nanotechnology - The control of extremely small, sub-atomic matter: 22%

Fusion Power - Energy generated from nuclear fusion reactions: 7%

Solar power - Gathering and storing energy from the light of the sun: 15%

It will be a technology that has not yet been invented: 12%

Not sure/others: 14%

I personally think nanotechnology will definitely have a lot of impact, but unfortunately
it will take about 10-15 years . Genetic engineering also has a long way to go. Solar
power will grow immensely in the next ten years, and for developing country like Nepal
it could help us overcome electricity crisis to some extent. I doubt fusion power will be
there yet, and the same thing goes for it as for solar. You can never say for certain about
uninvented technologies.

Nanotechnology can contribute to solving future needs for energy technologies,

especially in new generations of solar photovoltaics, the hydrogen economy, more
efficient conventional energy production and energy saving for industry as well as
consumers.Although no money was allocated in Nepal’s budget,it would not be long
before Nepal also starts paying attention to it. Considering the substantial budgets for
research in many countries dedicated to nano-research including for energy applications,
much of this potential is likely to be realised in the coming decades.
Nanotechnology has the potential to create many new materials and devices with wide-
ranging applications such as in medicine, electronics, and energy production. But on the
other hand, nanotechnology raises many of the same issues as with any introduction of
new technology, including concerns about the toxicity and environmental impact of
nanomaterials. Nanotechnology has begun to emerge and it will forever change our
life.