The Nanotechnology

Spectrum

The Nanotechnology Spectrum

The Nanotechnology Spectrum showcases the uses and challenges of nanotechnology as it applies to 14 different areas of study. These areas encompass three broad categories that are integrated within the development of nanotechnology.

For more information and an online, interactive tool, visit www.orau.org/nanotechnology/spectrum.

philosophy & ethics

religion

law

society & culture

medicine

engineering

materials science

transportation& logistics

electronics &communications

energy development

agriculture &forestry

security &defense

economics

environmentalscience

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Law, theHumanitiesand Social

Science

Philosophy and Ethics

Philosophy is the study of fundamental problems, such as those connected with the nature of reality, existence, knowledge and values.1 Ethics is a branch of philosophy that involves categorizing and recommending concepts of right and wrong.2

ChallengesNanotechnology is pushing the limits of science and altering humanity’s ability to control fundamental objects of nature. The improvements being made in a variety of scientific fields is leading to the possibility of some unique and new situations, such as the creation of artificial intelligence, an enhanced human species (transhuman-ism) and radical life extension (a life expectancy well beyond the current one). These issues are pushing the bounds of normal existence and pose interesting questions about whether or not some of these things should happen at all, and if they do, what exactly will that mean for humanity.

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Religion

Religion is the organized collection of beliefs, cultural systems and world views that relate humanity to an order of existence.3

ChallengesNanotechnology is allowing humans to manipulate matter in a way that was never possible before in human history. The ability to rearrange structures on an atomic level could be perceived as humans “playing God” and occupying the seat of their Creator. Nanotechnology has the ability to greatly improve our bodies (called human performance modification), which could potentially create super-humans. These activities could firmly place humanity in a position of power that would undermine the teachings of some religions that an all-powerful being is in control and not humanity.

Economics

Economics studies economic activity to gain an understanding of the processes that govern the production, distribution and consumption of goods and services in a region.4

UsesNanotechnology could improve the way currency is printed and coins are minted. Indirectly, nanotechnology can improve the economic output of a nation by creating innovations that vastly improve well-being and become a disruptive technology. It is not uncommon for research and development projects at universities to spin off into tech startups. These companies create jobs and develop more innovative products.

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Additionally, research facilities that cater to nanotechnology researchers often draw in notable scientists, their families and other related industries. Developing nations could utilize nanotechnology to improve their overall well-being through new desali-nization technologies and energy production capabilities, ultimately raising their standard of living and increasing their economic output.

ChallengesSome nations have the ability to spend more on nanotechnology research and development than others, so they are positioned to benefit much more economically than poorer, developing nations that could benefit from nanotechnology. In areas where nanotechnology is prevalent, low trust from the general public, unknown long-term health and environmental concerns, a general lack of awareness about nanotechnology and difficulty with scalable manufacturing methods has slowed commercialization of nanotechnology in many markets.

Society & Culture

Cultural Studies is a diverse field that encompasses a range of different theoretical and methodological perspectives and practices. It is focused on the political dynam-ics of contemporary culture and its historical foundations, conflicts and defining traits.5

ChallengesIn pluralistic societies, such as the United States, different cultures exist together, and while they frequent the same types of establishments, such as hospitals, retail stores and entertainment venues, each group views these activities differently and has different needs. Nanotechnology applications will affect different people in different ways. In some areas of the country, language barriers will be challenging in terms of explaining what nanotechnology is. In healthcare settings, it might be very difficult to describe a procedure utilizing nanotechnology, and certain religious groups might not want to be treated with a nano-enabled device at all. Being aware of these situations and learning how to approach potential solutions will be a critical aspect of making the acceptance of nanotechnology successful.

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Law

Law is a system of rules enforced by governments to govern behavior.6

UsesNanotechnology can be used to enhance evidence-collection methods, improve crim-inal surveillance equipment and to increase the accuracy of forensics and laboratory testing methods.

ChallengesThere are no specific laws or regulations that govern nanotechnology. Existing regu-lations in particular areas are being used to cover applications of nanotechnology. No exposure limits exist for occupational or environmental hazards related to engineered nanomaterials like they do for other chemicals. Patentability (the ability of a product to qualify for a patent) and intellectual property rights regarding the creation of new nanomaterials have raised interesting questions and are still unresolved. Debate lingers regarding whether or not to ban nanotechnology for use in the development weapons.

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LifeSciences

Medicine

Medicine is the practice of the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease.7

UsesNanotechnology is being used in four key areas in healthcare: diagnostics and imaging, drug delivery systems, tissues engineering and implantable devices. These uses will impact the detection and treatment of a variety of illnesses. For example, clinical trials are under way for new types of cancer drugs that use engineered nano-materials to directly target tumor cells. Other nanotechnology products have allowed certain laboratory tests to be performed in a fraction of the time as previous tests. Nanotechnology has been used in research facilities to create structures that can enter cells and deliver medications and proteins; this has not been possible before and would greatly improve medical treatment for illness like cancer. Studies have shown that it is possible to repair tissue in organs, such as the lens of the eye, and could improve visual problems dramatically.

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ChallengesIt is still unclear exactly how drugs that are built with engineered nanomaterials are processed by cells and organs. These tiny particles act very different than larger drugs, so more information is needed. Engineered nanoparticles are so small that they can cross through protective membranes (like the blood-brain barrier and the placenta). This action has unknown effects since most particles typically do not cross these barriers. In addition, the long-term durability of implantable devices made from nanomaterials is not known either. The majority of healthcare systems are not prepared to accommodate the storage and use of engineered nanomaterials, and most patients are not familiar with the concept. Processes, procedures and quality assurance systems still need to be developed in order to keep healthcare workers and patients safe. Animal studies have suggested that engineered nanoparticles can damage DNA and possibly cause cancer.

Environmental Science

Environmental science is a multidisciplinary field that integrates physical, biological and information sciences into the study of the environment and the solution of environmental problems.8

UsesNanotechnology can be used to develop filters that can clean and purify water in wastewater treatment plants and in areas of the world where clean, fresh water is not easily available. Engineered nanomaterials can be used as catalysts to clean emissions from cars, factories and power plants. Nanotechnology also is being used to improve the efficiency of cleaning up contaminated sites. Nanosensors could be used to improve detection of chemicals in the environment and decrease the cost of monitoring pollution.

ChallengesEngineered nanomaterials that are not bound in other materials can be released into the soil, water or air. These materials could be absorbed by plants through their roots and cause cellular damage. They could also be ingested or inhaled by humans and other animals. Little has been done to characterize the complete life cycle of

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most engineered nanomaterials, which is the path from creation to disposal. More research on the recyclability of nano-enabled products must be done. Environmental conditions, such as sunlight and water chemistry, have the potential to alter the properties of nanomaterials.

Agriculture & Forestry

Agriculture is the cultivation of animals, plants and other life forms for food, medic-inals and other products used to sustain and enhance human life.9 Forestry is the science, art and craft of creating, managing, using, conserving and repairing forests and associated resources.10

UsesNanotechnology has been used in food packaging to keep foods fresher for longer. New types of pesticides have been developed using engineered nanomaterials, which seem to be more effective in reducing pests. In addition, new vaccines and veterinary medicines to treat livestock are in production.

ChallengesThe long-term impact of nano-pesticides in the environment is not known, because they act differently than traditional pesticides and could be washed off plants then absorbed into groundwater. The mechanisms of nano-medications used to treat livestock are not well known either. Food packaging containing engineered nanoma-terials has been banned in some areas, such as Europe, because little is known about how the packaging may break down when exposed to heat or light.

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PhysicalScience &

CriticalInfrastructure

Materials Science

Materials science, also commonly known as materials science and engineering, is an interdisciplinary field which deals with the discovery and design of new materials. It incorporates elements of physics and chemistry and is at the forefront of nanosci-ence and nanotechnology research.11

UsesTechniques, such as electron microscopy and complex chemical synthesis, are being used to create engineered nanomaterials. Some of these structures are being used to develop materials that are stronger, lighter and more flexible than ever. New types of materials using nanotechnology also are being used to create materials that can invisible.

ChallengesInteractions at the nanoscale are based on quantum physics, which is a branch of physics that deals with the phenomena of fundamental particles at extremely small

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scales. Working with individual atoms or just small numbers of atoms is extremely difficult and results are inconsistent. Furthermore, taking processes that have been developed in the lab and moving them to mass production can be challenging and expensive. There is no information on the durability of consumer products made with engineered nanomaterials and the potential risk for exposure.

Energy Development

Energy development focuses on making available sufficient primary energy sources and secondary energy forms to meet the needs of society. These include the produc-tion of conventional, alternative and renewable sources of energy and the recovery and reuse of energy that would otherwise be wasted.12

UsesNanotechnology has been used to improve batteries and energy storage for vehicles and devices. Photovoltaic cells (used for solar energy) are one of the primary uses of engineered nanomaterials. Because they are light-weight, nano-enforced com-posites are used in the blades of wind turbines. Eventually, nanotechnology can be used to improve the electrical grid system and can be used in smart-grid technology to improve power transmission and energy security. Power generation remains an evolving area of nanotechnology, but other uses of nanotechnology, such as in paints and coatings for generators and power plants, are used quite often.

ChallengesNanomaterials are expensive and impractical to use in many areas of energy produc-tion. Production of products using engineered nanomaterials for the energy sector can pose occupational and environmental hazards.

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Engineering

Engineering is the discipline, art and profession that applies scientific theory to design, develop and analyze technological solutions. It generally is considered to consist of the major basic branches of chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.13

UsesNanotechnology could be used to strengthen materials, such as concrete, steel and other metals. Additionally, engineered nanomaterials, like carbon nanotubes, can be integrated into polymers and carbon fiber to make them even stronger. Sensors made with nanotechnology could be embedded into dams and bridges to act as early warning systems for failure and can transmit real-time signals of stress and strain.

ChallengesEngineered nanomaterials have properties that are very different than their more commonly used counterparts. It is difficult to characterize how these materials will withstand normal wear and tear through the long term. In addition, some materials might be difficult to work with since they have not been used in large-scale con-struction projects beyond research labs.

Security & Defense

Security is the degree of resistance to or protection from harm. It applies to any vulnerable and valuable asset, such as a person, dwelling, community, nation or organization.14

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UsesNanotechnology can be used to make sensors that could serve as an early warning system to detect chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive agents. Sensors placed at ports and airports could deter terrorists and identify threats early. On the battlefield, nanotechnology can be used in medicine and also in sensors. Nano-enabled materials can improve the strength and decrease the weight of aerial drones and combat ships. In addition, nanotechnology can be used to improve communications networks.

ChallengesEngineered nanomaterials potentially could be weaponized and used in terrorist attacks or in combat. Accidental release of engineered nanomaterials from research labs or production facilities could pose community harm. There are no methods to detect rogue nanomaterials.

Transportation & Logistics

Transport or transportation is the movement of people, animals and goods from one location to another. Modes of transport include air, rail, road, water, cable, pipeline and space.15 Logistics is the management of the flow of goods.16

UsesNanotechnology-enabled materials are lighter and stronger than traditional mate-rials and would reduce the weight of vehicles, which improves fuel efficiency, and also adds additional protection in accidents. Sensors in airplanes, cars, trains, ships and other vehicles could improve real-time tracking of goods and would dramat-ically reduce lost shipments and would improve freshness for perishable goods. Nanotechnology can improve electronics and telecommunications that are used in early-warning detection systems for operator fatigue and collision alerts.

ChallengesNo specific regulations exist regarding the shipment of unbound engineered nanomaterials. Furthermore, there are no requirements for nano-specific labels on transportation placards or shipping packages. If there were an accidental release of

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engineered nanomaterials during shipping, first responders would not be aware of the nature of the cargo onboard. In addition, there is no training available on how to handle a nanomaterial spill.

Electronics & Communications

Electronics deal with electrical circuits that involve active electrical components, such as vacuum tubes, transistors, diodes and integrated circuits, associated passive electrical components and interconnection technologies.17

UsesMetal nanoparticles, such as gold, silver and copper can reduce waste, decrease the size of transistors and chips and improve conduction of electrical signals. The semi-conductor industry is largely using nanotechnology to make smaller chips which leads to smaller electronic devices, such as phones and computers.

ChallengesUsing engineered nanomaterials while producing electronics can pose occupational and environmental hazards. The extremely small particles potentially can be inhaled by workers without proper protection. Nanomaterials produced as waste could be released through industrial discharge into the environment.

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About

The interactive tool and descriptive text is managed by ORAU’s Nanotechnology Studies Program, whose mission is to promote awareness for the responsible use and development of nanotechnology. ORAU provides innovative scientific and technical solutions to advance national priorities in science, education, security and health. Through specialized teams of experts, unique laboratory capabilities and ac-cess to a consortium of more than 100 major Ph.D.-granting institutions, ORAU works with federal, state, local and commercial customers to advance national priorities and serve the public interest. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and federal contrac-tor, ORAU manages the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Learn more about ORAU at www.orau.org.

References

1. Wikipedia. Philosophy. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philisophy. 2. Wikipedia. Ethics. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethics. 3. Wikipedia. Religion. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion. 4. Wikipedia. Economics. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economics. 5. Wikipedia. Cultural Studies. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_studies. 6. Wikipedia. Law. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law. 7. Wikipedia. Medicine. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine. 8. Wikipedia. Environmental Science. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Environmental_science. 9. Wikipedia. Agriculture. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture. 10. Wikipedia. Forestry. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forestry. 11. Wikipedia. Materials Science. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Materials_science. 12. Wikipedia. Energy Development. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Energy_development. 13. Wikipedia. Engineering. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering. 14. Wikipedia. Security. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Security. 15. Wikipedia. Transport. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transportation. 16. Wikipedia. Logistics. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logistics. 17. Wikipedia. Electronics. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronics.

NANOSTUDIES

© 2015 Oak Ridge Associated Universities. All rights reserved.

The Nanotechnology

Spectrum

For more information contact:

Jeffrey J. Leifel, CEM, MEP, EMR

Jeffrey.Leifel@orau.org

865-574-1443

www.orau.org/nanotechnology/spectrum