time supplement july 2006[1]

8/7/2019 Time Supplement July 2006[1]

1/24

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET ABOUTNANOTECHNOLOGY,DISTRIBUTED IN THE TIMES

Call 0845 130 768www.insidenanotech.com

Europe's nanotechnology magazineInside Nanotech, Europes leading source of non-technical nanotechnology business,industry and investment news is offering Times readers these fantastic launch offers:-

1years subscription (10 issues) for 34.50 Or an introductory 3 issue trial for only 12.99

Subscribe before the end of July and go into the draw to receive a signed copy, or if you subscribe for 1 year, apersonally inscribed copy of the book Engines of Creation, The coming era of nanotechnology by K. Eric Drexler.

Calls charged at local rate.Terms and conditions apply seewww.insidenanotech.com/timesoffer for details

Nanotechnology touches us every day in just about everything we do

NANOTECHNOLOGY II5 July 2006

HARNESSING NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR THE POOR Page

For more topics in-depth, please visit www.mediaplanetonline.com

COMMERCIALISAMdesuthc

exchange and disseminaknowledge vital to people, otions and governments interthe commercialisation and edof miniaturisation technologi

LORD SAINSBURN a no techno log i e shave the potential todeliver enormousbenefits to societyin terms of wealthcreation and theachievement of our social goals,writes Lord Sainsbury.

WELSH WIZARDIn Wsuccprodn a nfunc

their transition to volume man will be a key component oR&D and manufacturing capab

PANEL OF EXPERExperts in nanotechnologaround the world discuss the and possibilities of this techand the impact it will have the developed and developing

(NA)NO IDEAMediaplanet aEttinger introdutechnology to thNanotechnologymedia partner t

the gulf between the technoimplications and the general p

SETTING THE STANDARDSAnd addressing the risks. This is arevolutionary technology and newstandards must be set and possible

risks addressed in order thatnanotechnology achieves safe

passage into the main-stream.p14-15

SPECIAL FOCUS ON NANO IN SAVING AND IMPROVING LIVES,NANO IN EDUCATION,AND ITS GLOBAL COMMERCIALISATION

SAVING LIVESDarrell Brookstein from www.nanotechnology.comdiscusses five ways nano is saving

lives , from faster more accuratemedical diagnosis, to better protection from infec-tion and more power-

ful antibiotics.p6


2/24

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET ABOUT NANOTECHNOLOGY,DISTRIBUTED IN THE TIMES2

Welcome to Nanotechnology II

NANOTECHNOLOGY, A TITLE FROM MEDIAPLANET.

Project Manager Paul Ettinger, Mediaplanet 020 7563 8890, Journalist David Nicholson, Production Editor Ulrika Gustafsson, Print News International

For more information about supplements in the daily press,please contact Mediaplanet on 020 7563 8870

www.mediaplanetgroup.co.uk

The application of the technology is wide-ranging and increasing at a rapid pace. Ittouches us every day in just about everythingwe do. Every time we use a mobile phone, digi-tal camera or mp3 player we are making use of the technology. In our cars sensors using thetechnology are ready to trigger off airbags,they look after engine management and fuelinjection; and in top-of-the range cars monitor the tyre pressure, switch on the headlights

CONTENTS

Nanotechnologys role in saving animproving lives

At home in the year 2020

Five ways nano is saving lives today

Photography in nanotechnology

Opportunities for those in the know

How to be the supplier of choice

Commercialising Micro-Nanotechno

Nanotechnology for all

Ultra small,ultra competitive

Linking laboratory and boardroom

Standardisation is the key

Tiny technologies create hugeenergy savings

Indias Leap forward after IT Nan

Safe and sustainable route tonanotechnology

Europes nanotechnology magazine

Australian advances

Ask the Global Panel of Exper ts

Harnessing nano for the poor

You have (na)no idea

EU support for nano

when it gets gloomy, and switch on the wind-screen wipers when it starts to rain.

In medicine nanotechnology has broughtabout a step change in our ability to discover new drugs; wound dressings have been devel-oped and are now in everyday use that speedup the healing process and reduce the chancesof infection; exciting new approaches to can-cer cures are being developed, and much more.One of the first high volume applications of thetechnology was pregnancy self-testing kits.Personal healthcare is a rapidly growing areawith the technology enabling the manufactureof low-cost blood analysers for example. Theapplication of nanotechnology in medicine issaving lives everyday, and exciting researcharound the world promises much for thefuture.

The chances are that when we look out of thewindow the view is clear because of stay-clean glass developed and made in the UK.The new golf club or tennis racquet that youare using may well incorporate nanotechnolo-gy even the golf balls and the tennis balls.Roger Federer has won Wimbledon for the lasttwo years with a racquet incorporating nan-otechnology.

We have seen a very rapid rise in the growthof the Microsystems Technology and Nan-otechnology industry in the UK in recent years.The number of companies doubled from 2004to 2005 to nearly 740, and not surprisingly theturnover of the industry doubled to more than

For more topics in-depth, please visit www.mediaplanetonline.com

20 billion. The number of people employedalso doubled to about 43,000, with a further 225,000 people employed in industries utilis-ing the technology as a significant componentof the products they produce. The growth of

the industry in the UK is a success story and aprime example of the impact of the KnowledgeEconomy.

The application of the technology is devel-oping at an increasing rate, and it is vital for managers of every company involved in man-ufacturing and commerce to ask themselvesthe question how can nanotechnology helpmy business?

Awareness packs have already been pro-duced for a number of industries with more tofollow. For example, nanotechnology is beingused in alternative energy sources includinghigh efficiency solar panels; reliable fuel cellswith lower maintenance costs; improved windand wave power generation with the develop-ment of coatings to prevent ice build-up onblades, prevent corrosion, improved lubricantsto reduce maintenance costs and so on. Arange of textiles is being produced that cancombat odour, repel stains and dirt, repel water but allow vapour to pass through, or haveunique optical properties. The marine industryis making use of the technology includinganti-fouling paint to replace banned TBT;monitoring the condition of marine engines;and waste water treatment. The buildingindustry is seeing the introduction of additivesto concrete to improve performance; newmaterials offering high strength to weightratios; and even coatings on reinforcing barsto improve performance and eliminate corro-sion; as well as an established range of paintsand coatings.

This is just a glimpse into the world of nan-otechnology and the influence it has on our everyday lives. Many more applications aredescribed throughout this supplement, aswell as a glimpse into what the future holdsin store.

Nanotechnology impacts our everyday lives. For example, mod-ern computers rely on the technol-ogy to function. Imagine the worldwithout computers everythingfrom transport to commerce wouldliterally grind to a halt.

Professor Hugh Clare is the Director of the MNTNetwork which was formed in January 2004 toenable the commercialisation of MicrosystemsTechnology and Nanotechnology (MNT) for thebenefit of UK industry. The Network is funded by

central and local government.

Nanotechnology Part III in The TimesFor information call Project Manager Paul Ettinger at Mediaplanet 0207 563 8890,

or e-mail [email protected]

COMING SOON:NANOTECHNOLOGY III


3/24


This technology is going to make ahuge difference, says professor Homer. For example, in the treat-ment of diabetes, a disease that isbecoming epidemic around theworld, we are tailoring drug treat-ments to keep blood glucose levelsstable. This could mean an enor-mously improved quality of life for millions of people, and indeed savemany of them from early death.

Continuous monitoringWhat is in development is a continu-ous monitoring system, potentiallyimplanted beneath the skin of thepatient, which could then deliver drugs as they are needed, rather thanthe current system of self-diagnosisand self-administration carried outby diabetics who have to injectthemselves, in some cases several

times a day. We know that diabeticsdo badly because they have peaksand troughs in their blood glucoselevels, says professor Homer. It isnot practical for people to monitor themselves constantly.

Nanotechnology is being har-nessed to diagnose vascular prob-lems, such as narrowing or blockedarteries, as professor Homer explains. At the moment, we canuse an angiogram to look at blood

vessels and tell whether they arenarrowed by build-up of plaque,but we cant tell whether theplaque is stable, or whether it isabout to rupture and cause, say, aheart attack.

Using specially coated particleswhich will home in on a particular receptor, nanotechnology will,researchers believe, be able to detect

whether this plaque is active (ieabout to rupture) or quiescent (lessharmful). This will allow doctors andsurgeons to prescribe specific treat-ments and tell them how quicklysuch treatment should be adminis-

tered. Often, you dont need to doanything about narrowed arteries,but with hot plaques, you may needto intervene quickly, says Professor Homer. But considering theattached risks, and the question of scarce medical resources, it is veryimportant to be able to identify thissubset of patients who would have asteep decline in their conditionwithout intervention.

Re-engineering drugsThis form of therapy remains some

years away from practical imple-mentation, though it has enteredpre-clinical trials, according to Pro-fessor Homer. But one area of treat-ment where nanotechnology hasalready reached clinical use is inoncology. Nanoparticles can bedirected to a tumour, having mini-mal effects on other tissues. For example, some breast cancer drugshave been re-engineered from exist-ing anti-cancer drugs and hitchedonto a protein such as albuminwhich already exists in the body,

and this conjugate is then targetedat tumour cells.

Tumour cells express specificmarkers and molecules, says pro-fessor Homer. So if a chemist candesign a particular compound or

particle to home in on these cells, wecan administer it at a higher dose,without other cells suffering the ill-effects of the drug. In radiotherapythe same is true, with nano-genera-tors able to generate radioactivityand only release this once they reachthe target cell in the body.

Incredible speed A challenge, professor confirms, isthe incredible speed of technologicalchange, with new developmentsemerging every week. These devel-opments are coming not only fromthe traditional locations in Europeand the US, but also from countrieslike India, China, South Korea andBrazil, according to professor Homer. In some cases, the researchbeing carried out in India is moretechnically advanced than in the

West, she says.New applications to deal with

health problems specific to poorer countries are also in prospect;examples are nanoparticles whichcan seek out infectious material in

water and clean it for humsumption, or diagnostic detect tuberculosis. Thesepractical improvement, doctors to diagnose life-thrediseases more easily and

and to prescribe treatmentspot, may bring the most funtal improvements to humansays professor Homer. bringing diagnostics to the care is a very important cshe says.

Nanotechnologys role in saving and improving livesAs someone at the forefront of research and debate on thefuture of nanotechnology in medicine, Shervanthi Homer-Vanniasinkam, consultant vascular surgeon, Leeds Gener-al Infirmary and professor of translational vascular medi-cine, University of Bradford, is well aware of the funda-mental changes to human health that the technologypromises to deliver.BY SHERVANTHI HOMER-VANNIASINKAM

Oxonica Healthcare is a wholly owned subsidiary of Oxonica plc, a leading internationalnanomaterials group. Oxonica is developinginnovative commercial solutions for major markets using its expertise in the design andapplication of nanomaterials.

Other products include:

Envirox Fuel Borne Catalyst

a nanocataylst optimizing fuel economy andreducing emissions.

Optisol UV Absorber

a range of ultra-stable UVA absorbers withapplications in sunscreens and other cosmetics.

For further information visit www.oxonica.comor email [email protected]

Commercial Solutions from Nanotechnology

Oxonica Healthcare is engaged indeveloping detection technologies for the

clinical diagnostics and life science markets.Oxonicas vision for clinical diagnostics is

real time testing with central labperformance at the point of care.

Oxonica is one of the few nanotechnology companies that is

turning ideas into real commercial products.Bernard Fairman, Managing Partner at VCF

What is in development is amonitoring system, implantthe skin


4/24

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET ABOUTNANOTECHNOLOGY,DISTRIBUTED IN THE TIMES4

People want to stay active as long aspossible, and in command of their faculties, and today this means moremedical interventions. Once theyhave become dependent and frail,more and more resources are need-ed. Over the years, politicians havediscussed many scenarios rangingfrom how to persuade people to pro-duce larger families, or how quali-fied workers from other countries inEurope and beyond can be persuad-ed to live in the UK, or even recently,by offering amnesties to illegalimmigrants.

Do any of these possibilities reallyoffer the solution we need?Although we are seeking more

young people, the UK is in fact over-populated already. We cannot copewith the demand for new homes, and

the difficulty of providing infra-structure to support them. Meetingthe energy and water demands of our existing population has reached acritical point. As a substantial part of our community is growing wealthier,people want larger houses - or two of them; poorer families need afford-able housing and there are more sin-gle parent families than ever, puttingnew demands on the housing stocks.How can we really cope with anincrease in the population, when weare finding difficulty in coping withthe population numbers we have?

Far better are technological solu-tions. Technology leverages humanresources we have all seen thechange in car production over thedecades from being human-based torobot driven. Politicians have large-ly ignored technology in seeking

solutions to our medical and demo-graphic needs. Lets examine somepossible solutions offered by nan-otechnology.

Take David Roberts, age 78, livingin the year 2020. He lives in a small,purpose-built flat. The beauty of it isthat very little needs cleaned. Thewindows have dirt-repellent glass,nano-enabled, and likewise, using

variations of the same nanotechnol-ogy, all the surfaces and furnishingsare dirt repellent also. Even hisclothes repel stains and dirt, so Davidgenerally looks quite clean and freshwith very little effort on his part. Thisalso saves water, which is meteredand very expensive. However, theflat contains its own mini recyclingplant with nano membranes thatmeans his weekly use of water is verysmall indeed. (Bottled water is nowalmost impossibly expensivebecause of fuel costs).

Few old people needed to be hard of hearing nowadays, as the new gener-ation cochlear implants, whichreplaced old fashioned hearing aids,are tiny, require no power, and can beinserted deep into the ear using a spe-cial device. Once in place, they workso much better than the crudeimplants of the early 2000s. This kindof technology is cheap and widelyavailable, even to the very poor.

David has had a problem with hisfailing eyesight, from macular degeneration. However, a simple

retinal implant has enabled him tosee sufficiently well to read informa-tion displayed on the walls around

him. The operation was cheap toperform, and the surgeon told himthat the technology owed much tonanotechnology, miniaturized digi-tal cameras and the ability to fuse

nerve cells with tiny silicon chips.

Davids flat has its wallscovered with a lightweight,electronic wallpaper,developed using new

electronic polymers Davids flat has its walls covered

with a lightweight, electronic wall-paper, developed using new elec-tronic polymers. The paper canbecome a television, book or com-puter. It responds to voice com-mands, displays the television pro-grammes he wants to see and evenlets him communicate with his fami-ly who live over two hundred milesaway. What is also handy, is thatthrough this electronic paper Davidcan control the temperature of hishome, just by speaking, and evenbetter, order his shopping remotely(mostly ready meals), which aredelivered to him within 24 hours.

David knows he was very luckywhen about ten years ago he had aheart attack. Although he recovered,some of the heart cells had died, and

the prognosis was very pooever, using stem cells extrachis own muscles, the cells wsuaded to grow on a nanostrsurface, stimulated to evo

heart cells and were then traned successfully into his heathey grew and regenerated sue in place of the old dead technique he heard had befected in Scotland. This hathat David is still active tlater and not requiring ccare.

Nanotechnology has David to remain active anpendent in his own homenjoying life and knowingdoes not have to rely on any

These few examples (andmany more) demonstrainvesting in technologies future care targets cost-effecsomething that needs to be by the Government now.

The Institute of Nanotecrecently launched a NanomNetwork, Nanwww.nanomednet.org, whto inform people, particulaical practitioners and nanotechnology developers, abotechnology and its applicamedicine. It is organizingevent Investing in MedioTechnologies 13/14 Decthe Royal Garden Hotel, Lo

At home in the year 2020

NANOTECHNOLOGY IN FIGHT AGAINST BIRD FLU

A UK-based consortium is to develop a way of fighting viruses - includingbird flu - by using nanotechnology. The 2 million, two-year programme willwork on developing a range of nanomaterials for use in the fight against abroad spectrum of viruses. Funded by the South East England DevelopmentAgency, the programme will be carried out by Team AVNP, a consortium of six businesses and academic institutions.

Led by QinetiQ Nanomaterials Ltd, they will develop a range of nanomateri-als that have already provedeffective against viruses in initialtests. Dr Guogang Ren, of QueenMarys University of London anda partner in Team AVNP, discov-ered that at the nanoscale, certaininorganic materials kill virusessuch as SARS and avian flu oncontact.

QNL founder and chief tech-nology officer Dr Paul Reip said:There is a long term require-ment for new and innovativeantiviral materials that can beapplied to products such as facemasks to protect not only front-

line staff such as nurses, doctorsand paramedics but also the gen-eral public.

In the next decades we will have the very serious chal-lenge of how we support our ageing population. How dowe face up to this? To look after our ageing populationeven adequately suggests huge pressures on our econo-

my, our health service, and on the human resources thatmake care possible.OTTILIA SAXL, CEO, INSTITUTE OF NANOTECHNOLOGY

Ottilia Saxl, CEO of the Institute of Nanotechnology

NANOTECHNOLOGY AIDS ARTIFICIAL L

Scientists at a Welsh university are working on a next generation artifilung using nanotechnology. The portable lung being developed at SwanUniversity has the potential to save millions of lives across the world. It promises to save the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds.

The project involves Swan versity, Swansea NHS TSwansea-based Haemair Ldevelopment partners are alexpertise from the nanoteccentre at Swansea Universityneer the development of themost up-to-date artificial lung

In the medium term, thbeing developed at Swansea bridge to transplant, meaningface the operation fitter andgreatly increased chance of susays professor Rhodri Williamlonger term, the device offers a

native to transplantation, givito sufferers from emphysema tic fibrosis.

GreenShoots CommunicationsPhotography with creativity, passion, innovation, and not without a little insanity

[email protected] www.greenshoots.co.uk


5/24

Coming s

Watch the world take shape

Mediaplanet presents:

NANOWORLD A series of programs and a feature length documentary.

Producer/Director Paul Ettinger

For more information and to become a part of NANOWORLDplease contact Paul Ettinger on 0207 563 8890, [email protected]


6/24


Faster, more accurate diagnosisScientists at NASA have used carbonnanotubes to develop an ultrasensi-tive electronic DNA detector. Thismicroarray platform can be used todetect pathogen presence withouttime-consuming PCR amplification.

Therapies that attack your dis-ease, not your bodySeveral companies have developeddrug-eluding coatings that can beapplied to a stent or pacemaker andcan be turned on through nano-magnetics, to allow drug moleculesin the coatings to be diffused intothe body.

Time-release of drug moleculescan also be controlled bynanoporous membranes with poresonly slightly larger than the drugmolecules themselves.

Many drugs perform better innanoparticulate form. It is also pos-

sible to target drugs by adding spe-cific nanoreceptors on the surface.The receptors recognize damagedtissue and attach to it, releasing atherapeutic drug exactly whereneeded.

Better protection from infectionScientists at Ohio University havedeveloped biodegradable polymersthat can mimic the ability of whiteblood cells to target inflamed blood

vessel walls. Biodegradable beadscoated with targeting molecules cantravel through the bloodstream andeffectively stick to the site of inflammation.

Researchers in Singapore havecreated a transparent wound dress-ing using nanostructured materials.This membrane allows air and mois-ture to pass through, while protect-ing from bacterial infection andaccelerating the healing process. As

a bonus, the membrane sticks atbody temperature, but releases with-out damaging newly formed skinwhen chilled with an icy cloth. Cellscan be grafted onto the dressing to

promote tissue regeneration, anddrug delivery systems can beembedded in the membrane to allowsustained medication release.

More powerful antibioticsReza Ghadiri, at the ScrippsResearch Institute in California, andwho is also a member of Th e nanoCompanys andNanotechnology.coms Scientific

Advisory Board, has developed anentirely new class of treatmentcalled peptide nanotubes that killbacteria even the sort that havedeveloped resistance to antibiotics.

The tubes are about three nanome-ters in diameter and six nanometerslong. That is big enough to puncturea membrane. The result is that manyof the bacterias critical componentssquirt out, and it dies. Scientists areable to design nanotubes that selec-tively perforate bacterial membraneswithout harming healthy cells.

Researchers have found thatnanoparticles of gold coated with

palladium are very effectilysts for removing pollutfrom groundwater, 2,200 timter than palladium alone.

And theres moreOther nano solutions nanoscale membranes that cout contaminants, nanoscamer brushes coated with mthat can capture and remosonous metals, proteins anand photocatalytic nanomthat allow ultraviolet destroy pesticides, indust

vents and germs.

Five ways nano is saving lives todayExcerpted from an article at www.Nanotechnology.com byDr. Nathan Tinker & Darrell Brookstein (author of nanoFortunes)

Photography in nanotechnology

Creative photography has a tremen-dous role to play in visually bring-ing together the exciting challengesin scientific research and the enor-mous possibilities of its advantagesto the human race.

The fact that nanotechnologyinvolves the study of things invisibleto the unaided eye means that excit-ing photography can bring at least aconceptual element to the equation.Of course, the conceptual imagemust have a veracity to the particu-lar subject, whether by way of theprocess, or a connection between ascientific or natural existence and its

logical development towards a manmade benefit.

Inspiring othersPhotographers Norman Childs andPat Shirreff-Thomas of GreenshootsCommunications have a passion andexpertise in creating photographicimagery that is the catalyst in com-municating a greater awareness of the benefits of nanotechnology to awider audience. Drawing on years of experience working for many multi-national corporations in locationsaround the world, they see their

vision as an important element inimproving the UKs position of encouraging more young people totake up science and engineering.

Photography at this level has toinspire and intrigue the inquisitivemind, to search for a more rea-soned and scientific answer,which can be understood.

Norman comments: I havealways been in awe of the fan-tastic knowledge that scientistshave in seeking solutions tomankinds quest for a better

world. It often leaves me totallymystified in understanding thelogistics of the research. However, Ihave also learnt that my approach toimagery in creating a visual solutionto their research has a similar effectupon the scientists I work with.

In recent times, nanotechnology has become another buzzword to trip off the tongue. With the general public it con-

jures up many emotions, often based on unsubstantiatedfacts, thus developing a sense of fear rather than anexcitement of what it can do for mankind.

Above left and right Day geckos arewonderful climbers and have extremelypowerful legs and feet. They can climbany surface and can hang from glass bya single toe. This is possible becauseeach toe contains millions of tiny ker-atin hairs called setae which exert tinyintermolecular forces between them

N o r m a n C h i l d s , G r e e n s h o o t s C o m m u

n i c a t i o n s

and the climbing sknown as van derforces. Althoughexerts a tiny forccollectively actful adhesive. E

100 millionths long. It has 1,00

tip, and these padlae, are 200 billionths of a mThe gecko foot hairs split abillion spatulae to increasesity and come into close .cothe surface. This creates a ssive force.

Researchers at various uaround the world are usingnology to develop gecko tcould enable people to walsurfaces and across ceilingfuture.(Like Spiderman!) Oments could include applicwall climbing robots to car


7/24


The MNT Network was set up to fur-ther the commercial application of micro and nanotechnology, assistingUK companies to excel in the globalmarket place. It is offering a freebenchmarking service to all UKcompanies engaged in the develop-

ment and supply of micro and nan-otechnology products. All you haveto do is enter our 2006-2007 MNTQuality Mark process and let our expert assessors compare your processes and practices with those of the worlds best MNT organisations.

CommitmentTim Ryan, Chairman of Epigem, oneof the earliest companies to achievethe Quality Mark, sums up the bene-fits: MNT Quality Mark accredita-tion gives a clear indication to our customers of our commitment tobest practice in manufacturing andnew product development. Theaudit process followed by thereview panel provides detailed feed-back and is a valuable tool in identi-fying strengths and weaknesses. Isincerely recommend it to other companies.

The MNT Networks MNT QualityMark is based on the UKs Institutionof Mechanical Engineers interna-

tionally recognised MX Awards,consequently bringing years of expertise in assessing and advisingcompanies on best practice.

How the process worksEntrants are supported in the com-pletion of a comprehensive self-assessment audit which is deliveredin partnership with the IMechEsMicrosystems Manufacturing Asso-ciation. The audit, developed by the

Warwick Manufacturing Group, isdesigned to cover all aspects of your organisation and operations.

A series of panels totalling morethan 80 senior industrialists, includ-

ing specialists in MNT, provideexpert assessments of the informa-tion you provide, comparing it withaccepted best practice.

A balanced judgement of theoverall performance is then given bya panel of judges for the MNT Net-work to award the Quality Markaccreditation.

The comments of the assessors arecollated to produce a confidentialbenchmark report which is free of charge to all entrants, whether theyare awarded the Quality Markaccreditation or not. This is a highquality independent third partyreport of substantial business value.

How to be the supplier of choiceAchieve the MNT Quality Mark and give your customersand partners confidence in your organisation. Know howyou compare with the best from an expert BenchMark onyour company performanceBY ROGER CARLINE, DEPUTY DIRECTOR MNT NETWORK

RecognitionGaining the Quality Mark gives com-panies the right to use the MNT Qual-ity Mark logo on their company liter-ature for three years and includesrecognition on the MNT NetworkDirectory and Industrial Map.

If you want to take this opportuni-ty to benefit from the years of

expertise built up by the IMeMMA and Warwick ManuGroup then please register bto the MNT Quality Mark paMNT Network Web site wwrum.com or contact John LiIMechE on 0207 9731307 oRoger Carline, on 0151 794

I look forward to your su

With more than 700 products onthe market which are benefitingfrom the competitive edge gainedfrom micro and nanotechnologies,and with many more on the hori-zon, some analysts are predictinga global nano-enabled turnover

adding up to trillions of pounds.MNT have advanced applicationsfor many industries includinghealthcare, textiles, automotive,sports, cosmetics, speciality chem-icals, alternative energy and pack-aging.

Diagnostics and therapyThe healthcare sector is currentlyreaping the rewards from incorpo-ration of MNT. By utilising micron

scale fluid engineering and biosens-ing, Oxford Biosensors are extend-ing the opportunities for homebased personalised medicine link-ing diagnostics with therapy. Smithand Nephew have incorporatednanocrystals in wound dressings togive fast acting and long-lastingantimicrobial barrier control.

The integration of MNT into mate-rials provides advanced and novel

properties such as reducedporosity, increasedstrength, self-cleaning,increased flame retardencyand improved resistance tostains, scratches, water andchemicals. P2i is applying itssurface treatments to givesuper repellency to bio-science products, fashionaccessories and automotivecomponents. Propex Fabricsuse single polymer compositesto give lightweight impactresistant materials for luggageand shin guards.

Free information Whether a small or large enterpriseor a technologist looking to commer-cialise a novel idea you need to beaware of the potential of MNT bothto enhance your business and as athreat if used in competitor products.To help you, the MNT Network is cre-ating packs of information to give

you an understanding of what thesetechnologies mean to your market.MNT industry awareness packs areaimed at non-technologists. They arefree and use company and productbased case studies and examples of emerging technology solutions tohighlight the potential for MNT in

specific markets. Packs available include textilepower generation and marinucts. Food & packaging aspace packs are soon to be cowhilst others are in developm

To download these iawareness packs simply gwebsite www.mntforum.comntreports@mntnetwo

Alternatively, join us, the Mwork, with our partnersRegional Development AgEngland and the devolved atrations of Wales, ScotlaNorthern Ireland at one of things being held in your regio

Opportunities for those in the know

P2i has applied surface treatments to achieve super repellency

Covers of the awareness packs

You need to know how Micro and Nanotechnology canimpact upon your business. MNT Networks IndustryAwareness Packs can help.

BY ROGER CARLINE


8/24


Nottingham arrows in on NanotechnologyScience and Technology has always been central to the people andeconomy of Nottingham city. In March 2005, it was awardedScience City status by the UK Government in recognition of theoutstanding achievements within this field, including developmentsin mathematical physics by local scientist George Green and theaward of the Nobel Prize to Sir Peter Mansfield for advances inMagnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).As one of only six cities to receive this accolade, Nottingham issynonymous with science and technological advancement, andnanotechnology is one area that is thriving as a result.The University of Nottingham conducts research innanotechnology and nanoscience, with expertise in surfacepatterning, the synthesis and characterisation of nanoscalematerials, drug delivery, the manipulation of biological molecules

and the development of new instrumentation for studyingnanoscale materials.A major investment of 3.5m in the Nottingham Nanotechnologyand Nanoscience Centre at the University of Nottingham will soonprovide a focus for postgraduate teaching and become a centre ofexcellence for research in this area.Professor Clive Roberts, Chair in Pharmaceutical Nanotechnologyin the School of Pharmacy and the Centres Director, said:Immense value will be added to the excellent fundamental andapplied nanotechnology activities already taking place, creatingnew teaching and research resources for the region and beyond.Alongside four other leading East Midlands Universities, theUniversity of Nottingham is also the major academic partner in anew 6.3m nanotechnology centre called eminate based at BioCity,a successful incubator in the centre of Nottingham.

eminate, funded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)and East Midlands Development Agency (emda), is part or anational excellence network in micro and nanotechologies. As anindustry-facing enterprise, it provides expertise at the interfacewith pharmaceutical, healthcare and materials engineering sectors,as well as the practical support of materials, product fabricationand characterisation, clean room facilities, feasibility studiesand training.eminates Chief Executive, Dr. Allan Syms, looks forward to seeingthe integration of nanotechnology into industry: eminate is par tof a national commitment to provide industry with fundamentalcapabilities in the characterisation and fabrication ofnanomaterials, particularly within the healthcare sector. Byworking with key partners, the East Midlands will provide a criticalmass of scientific and industry expertise in nanotechnology.The Nottingham Nanotechnology and Nanoscience Centretogether with eminate form an important element of NottinghamScience City, providing a unique opportunity to make a real impacton the international stage in this highly competitive andmultidisciplinary field.Sue Kirby, Policy & Communications Director at emda says: Weredelighted to support Science City. There are clear benefits forNottingham and beyond in engaging and exploiting our scientificexcellence, and its exciting to see our regional economyflourishing through business-led innovation.

For further information, visit: www.science-city.co.ukwww.nottingham.ac.uk www.eminate.co.uk orwww.emda.org.uk

The Foundations objectives are toaccelerate the emergence of micro-and nanotechnology-based indus-tries, advance commercialisation,awareness and educational opportu-

nities through the promotion of con-ferences, workshops, seminars andelectronic-based forums and tobuild a global platform, includingcommunities of researchers, practi-tioners, suppliers, customers andusers of miniaturisation technolo-gies. These will provide a basis for economic growth and prosperityaround the world.

The Foundation originated in1994 when the first Commercialisa-tion of Micro and Nano Systems(COMS) conference was held inBanff, Canada. The conferencefounders formally incorporatedMANCEF in December 2000 as aUS-based not-for-profit organisa-tion. Since then, MANCEF hasgrown with a membership now inexcess of 750 members representingprofessionals and leaders fromindustry, academia and govern-ments worldwide. It has a 10-mem-ber executive board, an executivestaff and a general advisory councilof 30 members from three globalregions: the Americas, Europe/

Africa and Asia/Pacific.

Specialist organisationsSeveral types of memberships areoffered: charter, organisational, indi-

vidual and student. MANCEFs char-ter members include leading interna-

tional companies and organisationssuch as the UKs GlaxoSmithKlineand Surface Transform Systems,

Austrias EV group, GermanysForschungzentrum Karlsruhe andSUSS Microtec, Hollands MESA+Institute, The US Sandia NationalLaboratories and Zyvex Inc., theworldwide Semiconductor Equip-ment and Materials Institute. Eightpartnerships currently exist withother specialist organisations,enabling MANCEF to organise andrun highly regarded internationalconferences and workshops andcarry out strategic projects.

Doing the businessCOMS is recognised as the leadingannual conference on micro and nan-otechnology commercialisation andthe premier Small Tech Internationalbusiness forum. Business deals valuedat an estimated $2 billion-plus havetaken place through the COMS con-ferences since 1994. Members benefitfrom participating in an interactive,self-reinforcing community, wherethe experience, vision and activities

of its members provide tsources for commercialisatiotion and awareness.

Strategic direction

MANCEF published the firstional Micro and Nano R(IMNR) in 2002. Its 21 chapwritten by more than 500 ctors from five continents (Atralia, Europe, North & Soutca). It provided a strategic and global perspective to cocommercialising miniattechnologies into productnents and systems. An inguide for businesses, techneducators and journalists, Roadmap is a continually living document. The seconissued in 2004, included sechapters devoted to nanomturing, MNT, patents, equipmtooling, microsystems proceMEMS packaging and foundries and RF MEMS. Achapters on micro-nano interactive bio-nanotecmicro-nano integration and itional workforce devefoundries, education and wdevelopment will be ava2006-2007.

www.m

Commercialising Micro-NanotechnologyThe Micro and Nanotechnology Commercialisation Edu-cation Foundation (MANCEF) is dedicated to supportingthe global creation, exchange and dissemination of knowledge vital to people, organisations and governments

interested in the commercialisation and education of miniaturisation technologies.BY DAVID TOLFREE, VICE-PRESIDENT MANCEF

By David Tolfree, Vice-President MANCEF


9/24


The Government is keen that the UKremains at the forefront of the devel-opment of nanotechnologies. To helpachieve this, the DTI is spending 90million over six years on nanotech-

nology related research and develop-ment to help industry harness thecommercial opportunities. This is inaddition to on-going fundamentalresearch in our Universities.

We recognise that the full worth of this investment can only be realisedif the products and applications of nanotechnologies are developed andused in responsible ways. While anindependent study by the RoyalSociety and Royal Academy of Engi-neering established that most nano-materials are in a fixed form, itfound manufactured nanoparticlesand nanotubes, able to move freely,may pose some risk.

In response to that study, the Gov-ernment has set out its agenda for the responsible development and useof nanotechnologies, which we aretaking forward in discussion withindustry, civil society groups, theresearch community and in dialoguewith the wider public.

We want scientists to engage indebate with people about the regula-tory issues that new technologies

raise before new products and serv-ices reach the market. We need tolook at the ethical, health, safety andenvironmental issues produced bythese new technologies, but weshould not seek to decide whether ascience or technology is good or badas this is impossible to predict

Key actions that the Governmentis taking include a co-ordinated 5million programme of research tocharacterise health and environ-mental effects, and the developmentof a reporting scheme to transfer information from industry to Gov-ernment on any potential hazardsposed by manufactured nanoparti-cles and nanotubes. It is our fullexpectation that through actingearly in these and other ways, theGovernment will help to fully max-imise the exciting benefits of nan-otechnologies for the benefit of thecountry and the economy.

Nanotechnology for all

www.3i.comBuyouts Growth capital Venture capital

Nanotechnology. One of the new frontiers of scientific endeavour, giving rise to hundreds of new businesses in marketsunimagined just a few years ago. Its a tough, demanding sector that requires unique individuals ready to forget whathas gone before and find their own path. Leaders ready to break the mould.

Does that sound like you? Its time to talk to 3i Venture.

3i Investments plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Big ideas for a small world.

MSc in Nanoscience (F902)Nottingham Nanotechnology and Nanoscience CentreThe University of Nottingham

Duration - 1 year full-timeThis innovative taught higher degree course aims to train a new generation of scientists and engineers in theemerging field of Nanoscience.

The structure of the course allows students to develop an understanding of science on the nanoscale and allowstudents to learn about the truly interdisciplinary nature of nanoscience. The course is centred upon the newNottingham Nanotechnology and Nanoscience Centre, and is taught across four schools in the University -Chemistry, Physics & Astronomy, Pharmacy and Mechanical, Materials & Manufacturing Engineering. The coincludes an opportunity to undertake a research project in a world-leading nanoscience research group; givestraining in science communication; and provides students with a background to enable them to make a significcontribution to one of the most exciting scientific disciplines of the future.

Candidates should normally be expected to hold at least an upper second class honours Bachelors degree orequivalent in Chemistry, Chemical Sciences, Physics, Pharmacy, Biomolecular Science or Materials Science frapproved University.

Contact Miss Wendy Kirk, School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7UK. Tel: +44 (0)115 951 3481. email: [email protected]

www.nottingham.ac.uk

BY LORD SAINSBURY MINISTER FORSCIENCE AND INNOVATION

Nanotechnologies have the potential to deliver enormousbenefits to society both in terms of wealth creation and theachievement of our social goals.

We want scientists to engage indebate with people about theregulatory issues that new technogies raise before new products anservices reach the market. Lord Sainsbury


10/24

Firmly established as a leading global portalfor professionals and academics involved inthe fast-moving field of nanotechnology.

More than 21,000 individuals have signed to receive our free weekly newsalert! Join ttoday visit http://nanotechweb.org

Breaking news New products Latest jobs

Forthcoming events Directory of resources And much more

What could we do for your business?

WWW.MEC.CF.AC.UK+44 (0)29 2087 [email protected]

WWW.METAFAB.NET+44 (0)29 2087 [email protected]

WWW.UK-LMC.CO.UK+44 (0)1248 383 [email protected]

NOW RECRUITING FOR THE NEW 2ENTRY MSC IN NANOTECHNOLOGYUCL'S DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRON

AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Contact [email protected] phone 02076797300 for further information.


11/24

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET ABOUT NANOTECHNOLOGY, DISTRIBUTED IN THE TIMES

The success of products using nano-scale functions and their success-ful transition to volume manufac-ture will be a key component of future R&D and manufacturingcapability.

Wales is leading the way to makethis future a reality. With the supportof the UK Micro and Nanotechnolo-gy Network (UK-MNT) and theWelsh Assembly Government, Walesnow hosts the next generation of advanced precision engineeringtechnologies in the UK. Leading thisconsortium of industrial and publicsector partners will be three UK-MNT Open Access Facilities develop-ing and applying micro and nanoengineering technologies acrossdiverse industrial supply chains.

Strong clusterThis UK-MNT consortium is linkedto one of the UKs largest clusters of optoelectronics companies: based inNorth Wales, the grouping is led byTechnium OpTIC, in St Asaph. Here,precision engineering has benefitedfrom a recent 4.2 million invest-ment in the National Centre for UltraPrecision Surfaces to achieve signif-icant improvements in surface preci-sion engineering and more rapidmanufacturing time.

Open accessAlso in this region are the UK-MNTopen access facilities of the UK Laser Micromachining Centre (www.uk-lmc.co.uk) providing a complete andcost-effective laser processing serv-ice to the precision, micro and nan-otechnology industries. UK-LMC is aspin-out from IBMM-ICON at theUniversity of Wales Bangor: thecoordinating partner of the OpticalBiochip Consortium and leading themicro-fabrication and developmentof next-generation polymer elec-tronic devices and bio-molecular sensors.

Linked through UK-MNT are theopen access facilities and resourcesof Cardiff University led by

metaFAB (www.metaFAB.net) andMicroBridge (www.mec.cf.ac.uk).

metaFAB is a convergent networkof MNT laboratories and supplychain affiliates, working to convertpowerful multidisciplinary MNTexpertise into industrial productsolutions. For example, microflu-idics based precision particle engi-neering initially developed withinmetaFAB has been taken to marketthrough Q Chip Life Science, whichdevelops and produces advanceddrug delivery systems. Recently,metaFAB acquired a unique fem-tosecond/157nm UV Laser tool toproduce high value chips for

microfluidic, photonic and other high-specification products. In addi-tion, through MNT Academy,metaFAB directs the first dedicatedMNT apprenticeship courses andtraining programmes for directors,designers and production engineersin the UK.

MicroBridge, at the multi award-winning Manufacturing EngineeringCentre, is a key partner in strategicindustrial programmes at the fore-front of next generation precisionengineering. Coordinating a pro-gramme to miniaturise tools andcomponents at low cost for volumemanufacture achieving scales downto 40 nanometres MicroBridge willalso validate charged particle nan-otechnology for the manufacture of tooling and mechanical systems.

Applications of MicroBridges minia-turisation include the most techno-logically advanced fishing line in theworld for BVG Airflo, to the develop-ment of an infrared sensor for theHershel Space Laboratory, lookingten billion light years into space.

Invitation Andrew Davies, Welsh AssemblyGovernment Minister for Enterprise,Innovation and Networks, said:Wales is proud of its investmentinto technology and innovation andour strong cluster involved in nan-otechnology. The increasing pres-sures towards miniaturisation andthe micro and nano precision engi-neering technologies needed toachieve this necessitate conver-gent technologies between researchand industry beyond sectors andgeographies. On behalf of the UKMicro and Nanotechnology Networkand the Welsh Assembly Govern-ment, we invite businesses to discussthese opportunities first-hand withindustrial and research expertsthroughout Wales to see how busi-ness can apply MNT to both presentand future product development. To meet with industrial or techno-logical experts in any of the MNT

facilities mentioned in this editorial,contact David Barrow:[email protected] or call +44 (0) 292087 0292.

Ultra small,ultra competitiveBringing Next Generation Precision Engineering Tech-nologies to BusinessBY DAVID BARROW

Top Electrokinetic microfluidic devicecapable of sorting particles or livingcells

Right Biofactory-on-a-Chip devicecapable of performing complex diag-nostic tasks

Pictures courtesy of IBMM-ICON


12/24

The device has been designed inresponse to the growing trend in theuse of personal electronic deviceswith multi colour displays and there-fore has far reaching benefits for

both consumers and manufacturers.The device is capable of producinga variety of colours ranging fromblue to red with a manufacturingprocess that is lab-bench compati-ble. The device has huge implica-tions for reducing the complexity of the manufacturing process andCranfields close contact with indus-try has ensured that future devicemanufacture has been a major con-sideration in the design of the NLED.

Dr Steve Dunn, Lecturer in Nan-otechnology, and Project Leader says: The development of thisdevice is a huge achievement for Cranfield and the UK/EU nanotech-

nology sector. It demonstrates thequality of our research and our com-mitment to identifying and respond-ing to industry needs in this increas-ingly significant area. Students onCranfields Microsystems and Nan-otechnology (MSN) MSc have had

significant involvement in develop-ing the NLED. The MSc, developed incollaboration with industry, isdesigned to give students a thoroughgrounding in the skills necessary for a career in high-tech industries. TheNLED provides an example of thetypes of projects students areinvolved in. For information on the NLED, our work in nanotechnology, contact

Steve Dunn on +44 (0) 1234 754066or [email protected]. For fur-ther information on the MScMicrosystems and Nanotechnology,contact Enquiries on +44 (0) 1234754086 or email [email protected]

A new Nano Light Emitting Diode (NLED), designed anddeveloped at Cranfield University in collaboration withDresden Technical University, Germany, is set to lead thedevelopment of the next generation of LEDs.

Opportunities in

Nanotechnology atthe University of SurreyNanotechnology is changing the face of science and technology. Whether you are a buddingresearcher or a future industry leader, we can help you develop fundamental understandingand hands-on experience of nanotechnology which will allow you to participate in this rapidlydeveloping field.

Our programmes are taught by leading scientists and engineers, and we can offer world-classfacilities for your research. Funding is available to suitably qualified candidates.

MSc in Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices

Engineering Doctorate in Micro- and NanoMaterials and Technologies (MiNMaT)

PhD in Nanotechnology Research

Industrial Collaboration and Services

www.nanotechnology.surrey.ac.uk/[email protected]

Cranfield develops next Generation of LEDs

Linking laboratoryand boardroomJosephine Dixon-Hardy, Manager of the Yorkshire Fward Nanofactory, comments on the importance of effe

tive communication between universities and companin nanotechnology collaborations.

University-industry relationships are as variable in their dynamics and scesses as the individuals within them. Effectiveness at this interface is incringly important in a globally driven and accelerating innovation cycle. Wconnected and resourced universities are increasingly proving their abilitdeliver innovative products and processes in this environment. Their conntions with industrial nanotechnology activities are broad.

The Yorkshire Forward Nanofactory activity spectrum addresses fundamtal research in collaboration with nanoenterprise companies, focused on lo

volume, high-value specialist products, to collaborations with companies oside of the nano arena seeking to add value to their products and procesthrough advanced technology.

A recently published online directory of nanotechnology consumer pructs lists more than 200 products from 15 different countries. It shows hmainstream companies are enjoying increasing opportunities to incorponanotechnology into their products and processes for larger scale, higher vume products. Uniting talents, resources and commercial experience betwuniversities and companies can provide an ideal framework to acceleinnovation.

Experience suggests a good university-industry marriage is linked to acore factors: effective technology transfer, competent intellectual propmanagement, transparent financial agreements and clearly defined timeliare priorities for all parties. Understanding and alignment of organisatiogoals to cater for priorities is thus critical for success.

jo.dixon@nanofactory

Effective communication between universities and companies is essent

All matter is made of atoms. This simplestatement embodies materials science,chemistry and biology and we take it tomean all substances are made of combina-tions of atoms of the 92 stable elements.

There is however a wider interpretation from the originalconception of the atom by the ancient Greek philoso-phers Demokritos and Leucippus, who proposed theatomon (uncuttable) as the smallest indivisible unit of matter. If we cut an atom of, for example, copper in half we will produce two atoms of different elements, howev-er if we cut a macroscopic piece of copper into smaller and smaller pieces size effects set in at la rger sizes thansingle atoms. When the pieces are small enough to becalled nanoparticles, that is, they have a diameter of lessthan about 10nm, their properties start to change fromthe bulk material and, more importantly, they becomedependent on the size of the particle.

An exciting aspect of nanotechnology is to build sub-stances out of nanoparticles whose properties you canadjust by changing the size. It is not unlike having tun-

able atoms as building blocks and this gives enormousopportunities to produce novel materials. At Leicester thetechnology has been developed to produce size-selectednanoparticles of virtually any metal in environmentsranging from aerosols to solid matrices. Research projects(www.le.ac.uk/physics/research/cmp) include, develop-ment of high strength and highly magnetic nanostructuredmaterials, applications of nanoparticles to healthcare, tox-icology of nanoparticles and quantum dots. Based on its

vigorous nanotechnology programme, the Physics and Astronomy department has launched a degree in Physicswith Nanoscience and Tech-nology this year.

Playing Lego with Artificial Atoms at LeicesterOne of themachinesused toproducesize-selectedmetalnanoparticlesat Leicester

SINGLE ELECTRON COUNTER BREAKTH

Physicists in Japan have made a device that can detect individual electrthat are flowing either forwards or backwards. The device the most setive ammeter to date allows currents to be measured in the attoamprange for the first time. Known as a bi-directional single-electron ammethe device could be used for nanoelectronics, calibration devices, quancomputation or biology.

When it comes to detecting individual electrons, it is important to be ablemeasure electrons travelling in both the forward and backward direct

because many electrons get backscattered in a device. Although scienhave recently been able to count sin-gle electrons travelling through anindividual quantum dot ananostructure that confineselectrons in 3D these exper-iments have been unable towork out which directionthe electrons are travel-ling in. By including twoquantum dots, rather thanone, the new device getsround this problem.

It is important to be able to measureelectrons travelling in both the forwardand backward directions


13/24


14/24

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET ABOUT NANOTECHNOLOGY,DISTRIBUTED IN THE TIMES14

The Department of Electronic andElectrical Engineering has used nan-otechnology techniques successfullyto induce the oxidation of silicon atroom temperatures using light fromultraviolet (UV) excimer lamps,instead of high-temperature, ener-gy-hungry furnaces.

Energy savingsTo manufacture chips, the oxide, anessential layer in every microelec-

tronic device, is traditionally grownby heating silicon in furnaces attemperatures of 800-1,200 degreescentigrade. UCLs breakthroughmeans that these ovens could bemade redundant, radically reducingthe amount of energy consumedduring the manufacturing process.

The research, led by Professor IanBoyd, Course Director for UCLs newMSc in Nanotechnology, means thatfuture electronic chips could be pro-duced in a more energy efficient andcost-effective way. The discoveryopens up new possibilities for usinglight instead of heat to fabricate other layers in advanced electronic devices,

as well as creating the opportrealise completely new materunique properties.

Professor Ian Boyd safinding has potential to comoverhaul the way that the

electronic industry procescon. This means that the inenergy, and subsequent cings, could reduce the pelectronic devices for coand create a positive envirtal impact.

UCL and the UK arinnovation in the dynamic,ing field of nanotechnologour students contribute groundbreaking discoverienew discipline, supported bof-the-art labs, our stimulatcourse structure and the gand expertise of our woacademics.

Tiny technologies create huge energy savings

At the end of March a series of inci-dents occurred in Germany thatmade the nanotechnology commu-nity hold its breath. Spray can ver-sions of two new products Magic-Nano-glass sealer and Magic-Nano-ceramic sealer were implicated inmore than 110 incidents of breathingdisorders. The nanotechnology com-munitys concern was that nanopar-ticles assumed to be in the sprayswere responsible for the reportedproblems. Significant confusion sur-rounded the incidents and it was notuntil 23rd May that the German Fed-eral Institute for Risk Assessment(BfR) was able to confirm that theproducts contained no nanoparti-cles, and that the Nano name hadbeen used to draw attention to theultra-thin films that form on the sur-face of glass or ceramic after theapplication of the sprays.

These incidents highlight the criti-cal need for international agreementon standards for nanotechnologies,particularly the need for labellingand testing of nanotechnologyproducts.

Hallmarks for nanotechnologySo how can we be sure that some-thing that describes itself as nano-really is a product of nanotechnolo-gy? A solution is being piloted inTaiwan for locally produced nan-otechnology products. A certifica-tion scheme called nanoMark,provides consumers with a guaran-tee that items bearing the mark are

nano- and that there are benefitsto them being nano-. The Hohen-esteiner Institutes in Germany haverecently introduced a similar qualitycertification for nanotechnologytextiles.

Although voluntary schemes suchas these have considerable merit asthey can be introduced relativelyquickly without requiring legisla-tion, it is vital that they are based oninternationally agreed standardscovering what is and is not nano-(terminology and nomenclaturestandards) and what benefits thenano- aspects impart (measure-ment and test standards), otherwisethey will have little real value. Giventhe starting point of Magic-Nano- itwould be even more valuable if suchschemes also gave some reassuranceabout product safety based uponinternational standards (toxicologyand risk assessment protocols), sothat responsible manufacturerscould provide all-round reassuranceabout the composition, efficacy andsafety of their nanotechnologyproducts and leave the consumer todecide whether or not to purchasethem.

The British Standards Institution(BSI) is working together withnational standards bodies from 33other countries within the Interna-tional Organization for Standardiza-tion (ISO) Technical Committee for Nanotechnologies, ISO/TC 229, for which the UK holds both the secre-tariat and chair, to develop stan-

dards in all these areas. The tee was established in Jun

year and has just held itsmeeting in Tokyo.

Besides discussing potenfication schemes and agreestandardization work in a nufields, the committee haways of coordinating its wother relevant ISO Technicmittees and with the Europemittee for StandardizatioTechnical Committee for Nnologies (CEN/TC 352), ein December 2005, again wsecretariat and chair. It acussed future collaboration newly confirmed Internationtrotechnical Commission (IEnical Committee for Nanotgies, IEC/TC 113.

Standardisation is key Why we need internationally coordinated standards for nanotechnologies.BY DR PETER HATTO, CHAIRMAN BSI/NTI/1 AND ISO/TC 229

University College London (UCL) has discovered a worldfirst in the manufacturing of microchips.BY DAVID NICHOLSON

The oxidation process uses light fromultraviolet (UV) excimer lamps, insteadof high-temperature furnaces.

The countrys president, Dr AbdulKalam (a respected scientist) saidearlier this year: The convergenceof bio, nano and ICT is expected totouch every area of concern tohumanity. There will be a globalknowledge connectivity and Indiawill play a major role in this.

The Indian federal government hasestablished a Nanoscience and Tech-nology initiative. The UniversityGrants Commission has launched acomprehensive NanoscienceResearch Program. More than 30world-class institutes, including theIndian Institute of Science and theIndian Institute of Technology areinvolved in fundamental and appliedresearch in nanotechnology. Theresearch is focused on nano electro-chemical devices, nanostructure syn-thesis, DNA chips, nano-electronics,nanomaterials, nano-powders,nano-composites, nano drug deliv-ery systems among other applica-tions. A new nanotechnology parkhas been established in Hyderabad,with anticipated investment of $2.5billion. Phase one manufacturinghas already started, drawing on a$600 million investment to producesemiconductor wafers with a capaci-ty of 30,000 units per month.

New developmentProminent national companieshave invested hundreds of millionsof dollars in nanotechnologyresearch. Several multinationalshave already set up R&D centers toreap the benefits.

Nanotechnology research is beingconducted in many universities allover the country. Rutgers, a US baseduniversity, has established a joint

venture with the Indian materialscenter in Hyderabad for powder met-allurgy and new materials to developnano based harder metals, lighter ceramics and protective coatings.

The Indo American nano-nology Alliance (IANTA) and India Nano arenon-profit organisations working toencourage strategic collaboration inthe scientific communities in Indiaand US and providing a platform for the road mapping of nanotechnolo-gy development in India in the com-ing years. Dr. Yash Pathak and Dr. DeepakThassu are the Executive Directors of Indo American Nanotechnology

Alliance, a non profit organisation.Email: [email protected](www.ianta.org)

Indias Leap forwardafter IT NanoTIndia, already a global leader in information technology, isnow leaping forward in the field of nanotechnology.BY DR. YASH PATHAK AND DR. DEEPAK THASSU


15/24


Thousands of new companies havebeen founded and workplaces creat-ed. But we also hear more and morecritical voices calling for legislationon nanotechnology, a moratoriumor even a complete ban. How shouldwe react to the suspicions and fearsthat accompany this new technolo-gys introduction?

ResearchersAs researchers, we have learned a lotabout nanotechnology, particularlyabout first generation productsmade from nano-materials. TheEuropean Union and many nationalinitiatives have created efficientresearch clusters to look at the mostburning issues on health and safetyconcerns around nano-materials.Today, however, we still know rela-tively little about how nanoparticlesinteract with our bodies or the envi-ronment. Yet very many attractiveopportunities are demanding our attention and virtually all Europeanuniversities have embarked onto thenano-journey.

Safely degradableWe are currently exploring an alter-native way to develop nanoparticle-based products taking into accountthe potentiality of particle uptakeand the ability of nanoparticles todiffuse rapidly within the humanbody. How could we use the precau-tionary principle? A very rough,

material-based starting point is thelength of potential exposure: solublematerials may be dissolved oncethey enter a biological organismwithin hours to a few days. Inert,persistent nanoparticles lack theability to dissolve. They may stay for

years before being expelled or grad-ually decomposing.

We also hear more andmore critical voices callingfor legislation on nan-

otechnology, a moratoriumor even a complete ban.

How should we react to thesuspicions and fears that

accompany this new tech-nologys introduction?

So it is inherently safer to usedegradable nano-materials: in caseof accidental uptake, they may pro-

voke acute toxicological effects butwe know that they are dissolved rap-idly and do not pose any long-termeffects such as cancer risk. Persistentnanoparticles, however, would staywithin an organism for years. Here,a risk assessment is extremely diffi-cult and extended studies arerequired to show how and to whatextent such nanoparticles might beharmful.

Existing legislationSoluble nanoparticles may beassessed in well-established short-term studies. In this case, we canlook back and profit from dozens of

years of experience with consumer safety. We can judge a risk and

come to a reasoned conclusion.Legislators are not required to re-invent procedures on the use of degradable nanomaterials, they canin principle be treated similarly tothe well-established legislation for chemicals and formulations. For

persistent nano-materiashould respect the constraour current knowledge putsapplication. This class of mdemands significantly efforts from legislators, pand researchers.

A safe and sustainable route to nanoWithin the last five years we have witnessed an unprece-dented rush towards nanotechnology. Some researchershave become millionaires, dreams have come true and wecan buy the first nano-products in the shops.BY DAVID NICHOLSON

Engineered nanoparticlesare already finding their wayfrom laboratories into com-mercial products and yetnobody really knows theeffects they could have on health and environment.

To support a rational discussion about the potential risks, Nanowerk, oneof the leading nanotechnology information providers, recently launched

nanoRISK, a print newsletter. Designed as a constructive contribution tothe responsible development and use of engineered nanomaterials,nanoRISK is a must-read source for nanoprofessionals and nanonovicesalike who want to stay informed about fundamental research and the latestdevelopments on nanomaterials risk and safety issues.

Wealth of informationThis newsletter is not about stopping nanotechnology or scaring people,says Michael Berger, nanoRISK editor. It is about providing a wealth of information, compiled in one comprehensive, easy-to-read newsletter, onscientific research, regulatory updates and informed opinion about therisks posed by engineered nanomaterials and what is being done aboutthem. Download a free copy from www.nanorisk.org.

For more information contact: Michael Berger, Nanowerk LLC,[email protected], www.nanorisk.org, www.nanowerk.com

Nanotechnology risks: The real issues

Nano-structured coatings make paint surfaces more resistant to scratches, weathering and acids. They are also usedwind resistance in high performance cars.

N o r m a n C h i l d s , G r e e n s h o o t s C o m m u

n i c a t i o n s

Revertex (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. is a leading multination-al manufacturer and marketer of natural rubber latexcompounds, specialty masterbatches, prevulcanisednatural rubber latices, water-based polymers and syn-thetic resins.

Embracing the advancement in frontier technology hasenabled Revertex to stay ahead and offer unique and

ground-breaking solutions to its customers world-w According to Mr. David A. Lowe, CEO of R

(Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Our technological capabnano-technology, bio-technology and combinachemistry has opened up new frontiers for our custoto make smart stimulus-responsive rubber produc

Revertex has factories in Malaysia, Thailand and

REVERTEX (M) SDN.BHD.


16/24

MESA+ institute for nanotechnol-ogy is part of the University of Twente, having intensive cooper-

ation with various researchgroups within the University. Itemploys 475 people of which 270are PhDs or postdocs. The insti-tute holds 1250 m2 of cleanroomspace and state of the art researchequipment. MESA+ has aturnover of 46 million euro per

year of which about 55 per cent isacquired in competition fromexternal sources.

CooperationThe structure within MESA+ sup-ports and facilitates theresearchers and stimulates coop-eration actively. MESA+ combinesthe disciplines of physics, electri-cal engineering, chemistry andmathematics. Internationallyappealing research is achievedthrough this multidisciplinary

approach. It is strengtheniinternational academic and itrial network by fruitful coo

tion programs.

Start-upsMESA+ has been the brplace for as many as 30 highstart-ups to date. A targetedgram for cooperation with and medium-sized enterprispecially set up for starMESA+ offers the use of its esive facilities and cleanroom under friendly conditions. ups and MESA+ work intentogether to promote transfknowledge.

Joining MESA+ means wat the forefront of sciencetechnology.

www.mesaplus.utwent

MESA+ the unique research partnerin micro- and nanotechologyMESA+ is one of the largest nanotechnology research institutes in the world, deliveringcompetitive and successful high quality research. It uses a unique structure, which

unites scientific disciplines, and builds fruitful international cooperation to excel in sci-ence and education. MESA+ has created a perfect habitat for start-ups in the micro- andnano-industry to establish and to mature.

MESA+ has been the breeding placefor as many as 30 h igh-tech start-upsto date.


17/24


Inside nano presents complex infor-mation in a non-technical, clear andconcise format that interested mem-bers of the public and business exec-utives can understand.

Inside nano Chief executiveSimon Fryer explained: There is akeen focus on industries where theapplication or further applicationof nanotechnology has the poten-tial to be disruptive; our role is toimpart this information in a waythat people can understand andrelate to.

Coming features include, nan-otechnology joins the war on terror-ism and nanotechnology solutionsto the energy crisis

Nanotechnology, the new Internet?Simon Fryer said Our research con-firms that a small but growing armyof sophisticated private investors seeinvesting in nanotechnology andrelated shares as the next big oppor-tunity, but they feel starved of quali-ty information.

Inside nano Investor magazinetracks and profiles listed and unlist-ed companies that are at the fore-front of developing and applyingnanotechnology to industry. Itincludes interviews and share pricetracking and looks at which areasare attracting investment - of greatimportance to VC's, Angel Investors

Sciences. Drexler founded the Fore-sight Institute, a non-profit organiza-tion focused on nanotechnology andserved as Chairman until his departurein 2003. He is presently Chief Techni-cal Advisor to Nanorex, a companydeveloping design software for molec-ular engineering. Drexler was awardeda PhD from the Massachusetts Insti-

tute of Technology in Molecuotechnology (the first degrkind).

Europes nanotechnology magazineOffering an insight into nanotechnology, Inside nanoMedia is publishing a bi-monthly, non-technical maga-zine and a quarterly Investor magazine from September.The launch issue will feature an interview with K. EricDrexler, often described as the father of nanotechnology.BY SIMON FRYER

Simon Fryer, Inside nano Media

K. Eric Drexler, PhD

and those looking to protect their portfolios and to profit from earlystage investment.

nano Enabled Exhibition, Con-ference and Awards Programme

Bringing together business, gov-ernment, the investment communityand educational leaders with Nan-otechnology companies and their suppliers, nano Enabled is a mustattend for anyone involved in nan-otechnology in Europe. The inaugu-ral Exhibition will be held in October 2007.

Father of nanotechnologyK. Eric Drexler is often described as

the father of nanotechnology. In1981, he outlined an approach toimplementing productive nanosys-tems in a paper published in the Pro-ceedings of the National Academy of

Micromachining is considered to be a key enabling technology across a broadrange of industries.

The term is used to cover the production of minute components and features from a wide range of ma teri-als, generally in the size range of 200 microns to a few nanometres and may also be known as microdrilling, micro cutting, micro milling, micro fabrication and micro etching.

With a long history in micro etching, PRECISION MICRO is now able to offer a range of micro machiningand micro fabrication technologies tha t covers this complete size requirement, in order to best meet cus-tomers specific needs. From individual components for proof of principle trials and the production of prototype quantities, to volume manufacture PRECISION MICRO prides itself in providing the most economical solution.

Diverse range A diverse range of materials can be manipulated by micro-machining including: Steels, Silicon, Diamond,Polyimide and Ceramics. Manufacturing techniques employed include microetching, laser micro machin-ing and fabrication, Focussed Ion Beam (FIB) along with E-beam lithography and plasma etching.

Discrete components such as Microfluidics channels and filters, micro gears and other 3D structures canbe produced in batch quantities with supe-rior repeatability, ultra fine tolerances andoutstanding edge definition using electro-forming in conjunction with high aspectratio SU-8 tooling. Anyone working in themicro-, milli- or nano-scales would bewell advised to check out the unique man-ufacturing technology combinations thatPrecision Micro has to offer.

Tel:+44 (0) 121 380 0100www.precisionmicro.com

Manufacturing technologies thatturn nano science into reality

A choice of logo sizes micro machinedinto a human hair

Special offers to Times re As a special offer to Timeers, Inside nano Media is onew subscribers the cha

win 1 of 10 signed copiesbook Engines of Creaticoming era of nanotechnby K. Eric Drexler, PhD

you subscribe for 1 year, yogo into the draw to receivepersonally inscribed copiesubscribe by the end of Juqualify for one of these dised offers: 1 years subscription (10

for 34.50* Or an introductory 3 iss

for 12.99***Usual subscription rate **Subsequent issues charged at full subscriptio

These offers are only avuntil the end of July swww.insidenanotech.com/timor call 0845 130 7688 foinformation.


18/24


As host of next years Commerciali-sation of Micro and Nanosystemsconference (COMS) 2007, Mel-bourne, Victoria will showcase notonly Australias best nanoindustriesand research but will highlight itsposition as a key player in the boom-ing Asia-Pacific nano space.

Melbourne is a world leader inbiomedicine, pharmaceuticals,instrumentation and materials. Thiscombined with a Boston-like cluster of first class universities andresearch facilities, a skilled work-force and the worlds newest syn-chrotron makes the city and stateof Victoria a natural home to someof the worlds best nanotechnologyresearch.

In materials science Victoria hasMiniFab, a product developmentand prototyping company thatworks with other groups developingproducts from biosensors to materi-als for food packaging into com-mercial applications. Victorianbiotechnology company, Starphar-

ma, has developed a microbicideanti-HIV gel using nano-dendrimer technology, that recently receivedfast track status from the US Foodand Drug Administration. Nanos-tructured surfaces are the focus of the Centre for Green Chemistrywhich is working with the worldclass Australian Stem Cell Centre,also in Melbourne, to developstem cell-based therapies.

And most recently Uni- versal Biosensors hasdeveloped ananoscale diagnosticstrip for the moni-toring insulin levelsin diabetics.

According to Dr Peter Binks, CEO of N a n o t e c h n o l o g y

Victoria, there are 35companies developingor marketing nanotech-nology applications in

Victoria. The state is leading Australia and in some industries

the world - in nanotechnology com-mercialisation, he said.

CONTACT

State Government, Victoria, Aus-traliaDepartment of Innovation, Industry& Regional DevelopmentT +61 3 9651 9705E [email protected]

Australian advancesA small state on the other side of the world is doing bigthings in nanotechnology.BY LEANNE BOLTON

CARBON TUBE OPPORTUNITIES

According to a new repNanoMarkets LC, aresearch and consultibased in Sterling, Virgunique electrical, therphysical properties ofnanotubes (CNTs) will cbillion in new business

electronics and semicsectors by 2009. Nanoresearch indicates thatnanotubes are already ba key enabling technol

electronics firms should not dismiss as being a long way off.The report, Carbon Nanotube Electronics, A Technology Analysi

Market Forecast says that the biggest near-term opportunities for notube electronics will come from the sensor, display a nd memory secEach of these markets will include more than $200 million in CNT-bproducts by 2007.

SURFACE TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS

Surface Technology Systems plc (LSE:SRTS), based in Newport, South has been manufacturing equipment for plasma etching semiconductor matals for over 20 years. They export their wafer processing systems throughEurope, Asia and America, where the equipment is used by research institand volume device manufacturers to fabricate a wide range of semicondudevices, such as Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), wirelesselectronic, data storage and advanced IC device packaging solutions. Withemergence of new nanotechnology applications, the same plasma proceare being used to etch smaller nanostructures into silicon and other materifor use in areas such as biotechnology, nanolithography, photonics, and manetic data storage.

THINK INNOVATE CREATE

M E M S . C O M P O U N D S E M I C O N D U C T O R S . P H O T O N I C S . A D V A N C E D P A C K A G I N G . D A T A S T O R A G

Whatever your inspiration, STS takes your ideas further. As a keyprovider of plasma etch and deposition technologies for over 20 years, STScontinues to deliver expert knowledge and advanced thinking to customersbased on proven technology.

Whether you are an emerging or established enterprise we offer unrivalled

experience, and unparalleled knowledge of our proven technologies turningyour innovations into reality. Above all, we listen to our customers.Their success is all the inspiration we need.

STS are currently recruiting for a number of vacancies. To find out moreabout our products or career opportunities visit: www.stsystems.com

Imagination engineered


19/24

'Nano and Microtechnologies in theFood and Healthfood Industries'SHOWCASING THE APPLICATIONS OF MICRO AND NANOTECHNOLOGIES TO THE FOOD INDUSTRY IN EUROPE

NH Grand Hotel Krasnopolsky,Amsterdam25th-26th October 2006

Early bird rates apply until July 23rd 2006See: http://www.nano.org.uk/conferences/food_health

Contact:Carrie SmithEmail:[email protected] or tel:+44 (0) 1786 447520.

'Investing in Medical Nanotechnologies'

13th -14th December 2006 - Royal Garden Hotel,London

Conference and ExhibitionSpeakers include:

Sir Michael RawlinsChairman,National Institute of Clinical Excellence,UK

Paul SmitSenior Vice President,Philips Medical Systems

Arne HengererDirector,Molecular MRI,Siemens

Leonard FassDirector,Academic Relations,GE Healthcare

Philippe CleuziatStrategy Management Director,Molecular Biology,bioMrieux

Kim KreilgaardHead of Research,Development and Innovation Division,European Investment Bank Thomas K.Epprecht

Senior Risk Specialist,Swiss Re

Register before 12th August 2006 for early bird ratesSee: http://www.nano.org.uk/conferences/nanomedicine

Opportunities are available for companies wishing to presenttheir nanomedical technologies to potential investors.

Email:[email protected] or tel:+44 (0) 141 330 8777.


20/24


What is the most promising appli-cation of nanotechnology,in yourview?

RT Apart from some low hangingfruit, such as surfaces with newfunctions, resolving problems thatcan benefit a large part of the popu-lation, for example cancer treat-ment.

VS The specific in vivo targeting of nanoparticles (such as gold nano-shells, nano-rods, or drug-deliveryvehicles) for therapeutic purposes.

KM Relatively low-tech applica-tions such as anti-microbial coat-

ings for fridges, or super-gloss for cars. Self-cleaning windows, usingcoatings which can capture energyfrom light and kills bacteria, areanother area.

SM The applications that addressglobal warming - if we don't solvethis problem, the game is over. Newtypes of solar cells, advanced fuelcells, advanced biofuels, hydrogenbased-energy systems, and a distrib-uted power generation and storagegrid. nano could also play an impor-tant role in carbon sequestration if and when that becomes a societalpriority.

JN In health, the integration of diagnostic and therapeutics (thera-nostics) through drug delivery sys-tems. In energy, nanotechnologywill improve distributed energy gen-eration and distribution technolo-gies and efficiencies. In water, high

volume, cost-effective filtration anddesalination will enable the re-useof water and provide new sources.

What is the public level of under-standing of nanotechnology?

RT Increasing, but not yet highenough. The recent Eurobarometer study gives us a percentage of dontknow responses for nanotechnolo-gy above 40 per cent.

VS I don't believe that the public isaware of how much nanotechnologyalready influences their lives, andthe extent to which it is alreadypresent in products. An open,informed discussion about nan-otechnology is healthy, and shouldbe encouraged.

KM Understanding is relatively lowin the UK, compared to Germanyand the US. There isnt any real in-depth analysis or discussion: thefear is that discussion in the presswill all be about safety. The publicneeds an opportunity to understandwhats going on.

SM There is generally a high aware-ness, but limited understanding. We

are at the beginning of an arc of technology development, similar tothat of information technology inthe 1950s and 1960s before theinvention of the integrated circuit.

JN The concept of nanotechnologyis generally either understated or overstated. In Japan (and Asia) com-mercial drivers see it widely taughtin schools. The US has a general pos-itive approach due to its likely eco-nomic and social impacts. In the UK(and Europe) the societal/ethicalissues have been an ongoing debate.In Australia nanotechnology isnt aswidely discussed and economic and

social impacts are less clearlyshared.

Are governments sufficiently activein promoting the technology?

RT Yes, both in terms of policy mak-ing and in funding research. TheEuropean Union 6th FrameworkProgramme for research and techno-logical development has become theforemost single funding entity for nanotechnology at a global level.

VS Not yet. I believe that althoughgovernments are aware of the poten-tials of nanotechnology, these havenot been sufficiently addressed.Ongoing initiatives include rapidlyincreasing funding for nanotechnolo-gies, and one of the effects will be fur-ther information and dissemination of the successes of the technology.

KM The UK government has set upprogrammes in academic circles, butI dont see a huge amount reachingthe public.

SM It really isn't the government's job to promote nanotechnology, butto fund the research. Governmentshave funded around $5 billion inannual research worldwide. Howev-er, given the huge potential of nan-otechnology, this should continue toincrease.

JN Governments in countries suchas the UK, Germany, the US andJapan are very active in promotingthe technology. Others have awatching brief. The Victorian gov-ernment in Australia is now activelypromoting nanotechnology.

Is nanotechnology likely to have amajor impact in developing coun-tries - if so in which fields?

RT Yes, but this can positive or neg-ative. A nano divide or technologyapartheid should be avoided, asclearly pointed out by the EuropeanCommission in its Strategy paper.

VS Yes, I believe so, and especiallyin areas such as clean water and sus-tainable energy. Another potentialfield is in engineered vaccines thatretain their efficacy in extreme con-

ditions (temperature, humidity, lackof refrigeration).

KM We are producing diesel fueladditives which improve fuel effi-ciency which is important for devel-oping countries and will help tocontrol emissions. I think there willbe an impact in energy production,environmental remediation and inmedicine.

SM In the areas of energy storage,production and conversion; agricul-tural productivity enhancement;water treatment and remediation;disease diagnosis and screening;drug delivery systems; food process-ing and storage; air pollution andremediation; construction; healthmonitoring; and vector/pest detec-tion and control.

JN Through ultra-low cost develop-ment of technologies for

time supplement july 2006[1]

Documents