nanotechnology

Experimental technology using individual atoms or molecules as the components of minute machines, measured by the nanometre, or millionth of a millimetre. Nanotechnology research in the 1990s focused on testing molecular structures and refining ways to manipulate atoms using a scanning tunnelling microscope. The ultimate aim is to create very small computers and molecular machines which could perform vital engineering or medical tasks.

The scanning tunnelling microscope can be used to see and position single atoms and molecules, and to drill holes a nanometre (billionth of a metre) across in a variety of materials. The instrument can be used for ultrafine etching; the entire 28 volumes of the Encyclopaedia Britannica could be engraved on the head of a pin. In the USA, a complete electric motor has been built, which is less than 0.1 mm/0.004 in across with a top speed of 600,000 rpm. It is etched out of silicon, using the ordinary methods of chip manufacturers.

The idea of manipulating material on a nanometre scale – atom by atom – was first discussed by US physicist Richard Feynman in 1959. Nanotechnology enthusiasts say that it will eventually be possible to build computers on the molecular scale, produce ultrastrong materials, and allow the molecular correction of most diseases, even the repair of ageing cells.