Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology incorporates techniques that involve the structure and composition of materials on a nanoscale. Based on the nanometer, which is one billionth of a meter, it has become an exciting development in many fields. For example, scientists are working on miniature devices that can unclog arteries, detect and eradicate cancer cells, filter water pollution, and more. Its use in treating heart attack and stroke victims is garnering close attention in recent years. Researchers are developing nanocapsules for a “clot-busting” drug. The nanocapsule can target a specific clot, break open and release the medicine exactly at the site it’s needed. This is far more accurate than the traditional methods, such as when a drug is administered through an IV. Nanotechnology is also being developed to make computers much faster and smaller, with more memory. However, nanotechnology is currently too expensive to justify its use in many applications. Further research and development should reduce its cost in the future. In the field of information systems, the current technology for miniaturizing transistors and other micro-processor components might reach its limit in the next decade. New technologies, including nanotechnology, will be necessary.