Applications and Innovators

Think the fundamentals of nanotechnology sound too futuristic to see it work in our lifetime? Think again.

Here are some products that make use of nanotechnology presently:

Sunscreen Gives off less of a whitish tinge
Self-cleaning glass Water spreads across glass evenly, which helps it clean
Clothing Gives better protection from UV radiation
Scratch-resistant coatings for everything between car windows to eyeglass lenses
Antimicrobial Bandages Detect harmful cells and destroy them before they spread

You have probably used these products without even knowing that they incorporate uses of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology has not changed the product entirely, but made the product more efficient overall, even if you can't see it with the naked eye.

*Nanotechnology research in the United States is primarily funded by the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI).

Tennis, anyone?

Nanotechnology is making a big impact on the tennis world. In 2002, the tennis racket company Babolat introduced the VS Nanotube Power racket. The racket was made out of carbon nanotube-infused graphite, meaning the racket was light, yet many times stronger than steel. Meanwhile, tennis ball maker Wilson introduced the Double Core tennis ball. These balls have a coating of clay nanoparticles on the inner core. The clay acts as a sealant, making it difficult for air to escape the ball (1).

Nanotech Companies:

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Above: Possibilities in nanotechnology and cancer (3).

Below: An example of a nanotechnology application (4).

Nanotech Research Facilities:

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