National Nanotechnology Day provides a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness about a tiny science that enables incredible scientific advances that enrich our daily lives.
What is nanotechnology, and how small is it? Nanotechology is the study and manipulation of matter at incredibly small sizes. “Nano” means a billionth of a meter. To put that in perspective, the tip of a ballpoint pen is about 1 million nanometers wide. Hence, a nanometer is much smaller than the human eye can see.
Why is nanotechnology important? Using nanotechnology, scientists and engineers can create new materials, products and devices, and technical advances that yield life-changing results. This amazingly tiny science is at the forefront of some extraordinary innovations in healthcare, technology, and building and construction.
Here are a few ways nanotechnology is changing our world in 2019:
Looking for more ways to celebrate nanotechnology?
The National Nanotechnology Initiative plays a critical role in coordinating research, investments and education efforts across the federal government. To celebrate National Nanotechnology Day, the National Nanotechnology Initiative and several schools, labs and organizations nationwide will be holding events to commemorate the date, including a challenge to run a 100 Billion Nanometer Dash (equal to 100 meters) and a series of podcasts featuring stories from the National Nanotechnology Initiative. A full list of events can be found on the official NNI website and on the organization’s Twitter page, @NNInanonews.
Alongside these efforts, the American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) Nanotechnology Panel is at the forefront of guiding the responsible development of nanotechnologies domestically and internationally and providing a scientifically sound approach to nanotechnology policy.
To learn more about the Nanotechnology Panel or to inquire about joining the panel, contact Jay West at jay_west@americanchemistry.com. You can also follow @AmChemistry on Twitter during our official nanotechnology Twitter takeover and retweet our facts and graphics on nanotechnology.