| Contents Notes |
The ability to image, measure, model, and manipulate matter on the nanoscale is leading to new technologies that will impact virtually every sector of our economy and our daily lives. Nanoscale science, engineering, and technology are enabling promising new materials and applications across many fields including healthcare, electronics, aeronautics, and energy. Realizing these possibilities requires continued research and accelerated innovation. The United States has been and is now the recognized leader in nanotechnology research and development (R & D), but this lead cannot be assumed to be permanent. Thus, the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is as important as ever to ensuring U.S. leadership in nanotechnology R & D. The NNI has created a thriving nanoscale science and engineering R & D environment within the United States. As a result, scientific understanding of nanometer-scale phenomena has expanded enormously. An extensive network of R & D centers is already established. Commercialization resulting from NNI supported research is growing. Yet exploiting the full value that nanotechnology offers depends on sustained R & D. Barriers to innovation and technology transfer need to be lowered. Researchers, educators, and technicians with new skills are required. Furthermore, nanotechnology must be developed responsibly. |
