Nanotechnology is the control of the fundamental structure and
behaviour of matter at the level of atoms and molecules. One
nanometer is one billionth of a metre, around 80,000 times smaller
than the width of a human hair.
Applications are emerging in many different areas, including
health care, information technologies, materials sciences,
manufacturing, instrumentation, energy, security or space.
Nanotechnology has great potential for improving our quality of
life, the competitiveness of European industry and sustainable
development, says the Commission.
However, most of the research and development to date has been
piecemeal, so the Commission is keen to develop a co-ordinated
European approach to the fledgling industry.
"Europe must build upon the solid knowledge base that it has
developed through research in nanosciences and nanotechnologies and
translate this into useful and commercially viable products and
services. At the same time we must play a proactive role for
ensuring its safe and responsible development and use, also at
global level," said European Research Commissioner Philippe
Busquin.
Key actions, according to the Communication, include boosting
R&D investment and infrastructure, improving training for
research personnel, and enhancing technology transfer in Europe and
its financing.
Participants are invited to complete an on-line questionnaire
before 30th September.
