Chapter 1 - Nanotechnology to Nanomanufacturing

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a term that is used to describe the science and technology related to the control and manipulation of matter and devices on a scale less than 100nm in dimension. It involves a multidisciplinary approach involving fields such as applied physics, materials science, chemistry, biology, surface science, robotics, engineering, electrical engineering and biomedical engineering. At this scale the properties of matter is dictated and there are few boundaries between scientific disciplines. Generally, two main approaches have been used in nanotechnology. These are known as the ‘bottom-up’ and ‘top-down’ approaches. The former involves building up from atoms into molecules to assemble nanostructures, materials and devices. The latter involves making structures and devices from larger entities without specific control at the atomic level. Progress in both approaches has been accelerated in recent years with the development and application of highly sensitive equipment. For example, instruments such as atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning tunnelling microscope (STM), electron beam lithography, molecular beam epitaxy, etc., have become available to push forward development in this exciting new field. These instruments allow observation and manipulation of novel nanostructures. Considerable research is being carried throughout the world in developing nanotechnology, and many new applications have emerged. However, a related term is nanomanufacturing, used to describe industrial scale manufacture of nanotechnology-based objects at high rate, low cost and reliability. In this paper we discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the transition from nanotechnology to nanomanufacturing. Tools, templates and processes are currently being developed that will enable high volume manufacturing of components and structures on a nanoscale and these are reviewed. These advancements will accelerate the development of commercial products and enable the creations of a new generation of applications in various different commercial sectors including drug delivery, cosmetics, biomedical implants, electronics, optical components, automotive and aerospace parts.