Nanotechnology Holds Huge Promise - Essay Example

Nanotechnology has a wide range of use and application and its multi-disciplinary utilities encompass applied physics, device physics, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, supramolecular chemistry, reactivity, electrical conductivity, cleaner energy production, energy efficiency, light-weighting of materials, and environmental improvements, besides a vast array of applications hitherto unexplored. [1] To date, its commercial use has been limited to colloidal nanoparticles used in bulk for the manufacture of suntan lotion, cosmetics, protective coatings, and stain-resistant clothing.

Sales of products manufactured by the use of nanotechnology have crossed US$ 30 billion and are expected to touch US$ 1 trillion within the next decade. However, despite its phenomenal capabilities and benefits, there are disturbing indications about its side effects and capacity to hurt. As of now, what is known is there are both positive and negative effects to nanotechnology. While its protagonists are busy exploiting its various uses, not enough is being done to meticulously research its potential to harm immediately or over a period of time.

As has been mentioned, the potential for its positive use is tremendous and is poised to usher in yet another dynamic era of worldwide usage after the electronic age. However, like all fantastic inventions of mind-boggling capabilities, nanotechnology is not immune from its capacity to strike disaster if appropriate safety measures are not implemented alongside its sleek, power-packed applications. [2] Nanoparticles are highly volatile and susceptible to changes, in their tiniest physical, chemical, electrical, and other forms, and there isn't any clear knowledge as to how, if, and when they could assume toxic forms.

They are capable of seeping into the blood and brain by skin contact and, possibly, wrecking untold damage. "Nanotechnology is turning our world upside down is also shaking up our understanding of what makes something harmful, and how we deal with that," says Dr. Andrew Maynard, Chief Scientist, US Project on Emerging Nanotechnology. Dr. Maynard is among the growing number of scientists concerned with nanotechnology who is not satisfied with the standard of safety checks and measures being researched and implemented in the field of nanotechnology.

He is concerned that not enough is being done to research this technology at home and overseas. According to Dr. Maynard, for the technology of such enormous potential and equally grave risks, the research must be scaled up to the requirement of the 21st century and not based on the challenges of the bygone era of the 20th century. [3] Decision-makers must include besides top-level scientists, regulators, industries, consumer bodies, and other relevant agencies. It is critically important for governments to act with the utmost sense of urgency, care, and responsibility.

The industry must act with the responsibility of equal measure. In view of the grave and long-term nature of its perceived threats, the government and industry have got to prove that they are acting in the correct manner all the time.