Nanotechnology: Scientific challenges and societal benefits and risks

• Published in: Metallurgical and materials transactions. B, Process metallurgy and materials processing science Process metallurgy and materials processing science, 2004-12, Vol.35 (6), p.1021-1028
• Main Author: ROMIG, A. D
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Exact sciences and technology; Metals. Metallurgy; Nanotechnology; Production of metals; Public good; Risk assessment; Social impact
• ISSN: 1073-5615; 1543-1916
• DOI: 10.1007/s11663-004-0058-9

The field of nanotechnology is developing rapidly, as are its practical application in society. In this article, we give examples that demonstrate the enormous potential that exists for this new class of materials, and for devices with critical dimensions of less than 100 nm. We also identify some of the challenges that need to be faced in order to fully realize the practical benefits of nanotechnology, and discuss possible risks that may come with this new technology. In all cases, the unique advantage of nanotechnology can be traced back to nanoscale physical and chemical properties that are quite different from those encountered in more traditional microscopic (micro) or macroscopic (macro) materials and devices. Unique nanoscale properties and behaviors are already being used to increase energy efficiency, improve healthcare, and strengthen national security. However, while progress is rapid, many challenges remain. These include manufacturing at the nanoscale, integration of nanoscale materials and devices with more conventional technology, and predictive modeling that will allow nanotechnology to be engineered reliably into useful applications and products. Nanotechnology can be expected to have an increasing impact on human lives and society at large. As we strive to use nanotechnology to improve human life through better healthcare, cleaner environment, and improved national security, we must also work to detect and assess the negative impacts that nanotechnology (or any new technology) might bring. We suggest that the conduct of science should be allowed to proceed unimpeded, so that we ean fully understand and appreciate the rules of nature at the nanometer scale. That said, scientific pursuits that involve self-replication in synthetic systems, encryption, defense technology, or the enhancement of human intelligence should be reviewed. The development of new technology from fundamental science and the process of deciding what new technology is to be created for what purpose are topics for reasoned debate among the general public as well as in the forums of scientific peer review and political decision making. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]