Nanotechnology is the growing industry built around the ability
to control materials on the nano scale. One nanometer is one
billionth of a metre, around 80,000 times smaller than the width of
a human hair.
Many expect it to bring great advances in medicine, electronics
and the IT sectors. But like many new technologies, nanotech is
threatened by hype. The Government has therefore been investigating
the benefits and risks of nanotechnology and last year commissioned
a report by the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering into
the new science.
That report, Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies: Opportunities
and Uncertainties, concluded that there were no significant
concerns at present but raised areas where more research should be
conducted.
Those research priorities are covered in Wednesday’s report,
Characterising the potential risks posed by engineered
nanoparticles. Three areas are highlighted:
- Characterising, defining and measuring nanoparticles;
- Understanding the impact of nanoparticles on humans and the
environment; and
- Understanding where nanoparticles come from and how they travel
through the environment, including the human body.
"This report sets out the ambitious and forward-looking research
agenda that is needed to ensure that we are able to identify and
manage potential risks associated with the use of
nanotechnologies,” said Professor Howard Dalton, Defra's Chief
Scientific Adviser. “Gathering this knowledge is vitally important
so that we can reap the benefits, both environmental and economic,
of nanotechnology."
The report identifies 19 research objectives and describes
funding opportunities to address them. The entire research and
funding programme will be regularly reviewed.
Including the £5 million investment announced today, the
Government is now funding research into nanotech to the tune of
almost £13 million.
According to Defra, research councils will welcome bids from
those interested in carrying out the research.
