4. Some key application areas

The fields of application for nanotechnologies are numerous. Although nanoparticles are already present in the products we buy (cars, clothing, etc.), nanotechnologies will profoundly change the way materials and devices are produced in the future. The ability to synthesize building blocks with a desired size and composition, and then assemble them into larger structures with specific properties and functions, will revolutionize materials and manufacturing. Researchers will be able to develop structures that do not exist in nature, beyond what chemistry can offer us.

The advantages of these materials and devices include lighter, stronger, programmable materials, reduced life-cycle costs through fewer failures, devices based on new principles and architectures, and the use of molecular- and cluster-scale manufacturing methods.

An estimate...