NANOTECHNOLOGY

    Risø National Laboratory • DTU                Frederiksborgvej 399                DK-4000 Roskilde                  maj.munch.andersen@risoe.dk

> What is Nanotechnology?

> What are the current commercial applications of nanotechnology?

> What is the expected development of nanotechnologies?

> What kinds of nanomaterials are currently available?

> What is the potential role of nanotechnologies in the construction sector?

> Are nanotechnologies “green” or “environmentally friendly”?

> Is there any potential risk to health or environment in the use of nanotechnologies?

> How can I learn more?

Nanotech is about studying and manipulating matter at atomic levels  >>

The construction sector is looking for new sustainable technical solutions  >>

Green solutions within innovation will create a sustainable society  >>

Examples of nanotechnology are the manufacture of polymers based on molecular structure, and the design of computer chip layouts based on surface science. Current commercial applications are mainly based on the advantages of colloidal nanoparticles in bulk form as in cosmetics, protective coatings, drug delivery, and stain resistant clothing. Other consumer products in which nanotechnologies have been applied are computers, medical devises, and sport equipment. In industrialized countries such as the US, approximately 300

consumer products and over 600 raw materials, intermediate components and industrial equipment items that are used by manufacturers contain nanomaterials.

 

In general, the global market share for nanotechnology applications is lead by materials (31%), electronics (28%), medicine (17%), chemistry (9%), aviation (6%), and others (9%). The market for these technologies is expected to reach 2 billion US Dollars by year 2015. Yet, the advances on nanomaterials are predominant

over the development of other applications such as nanotools and nanodevices. Expected mid-term market releases include friction resistant surfaces, harder/lighter/stronger materials; electronics components (smaller and more powerful memory devices); ceramic membranes (filters); fuel additives; paper-like displays; flexible circuitry and flexible solar cells; and light, flexible, wearable electronics.