Nanotechnology Past and Present (Synthesis Lectures on Engineering, Science, and Technology)

Nanoscience and nanotechnology, the application of the research-based nanoscale science, have changed significantly over the last three and a half decades. The “bucky” ball, 60 carbon atoms arranged like a soccer ball, and an often-used symbol of nanotechnology, was discovered in 1985 and 4 years later scientists at IBM were able to manipulate xenon atoms on a surface. In the intervening years, nanotechnology has evolved from a singly focused research topic to an understanding that infiltrates every aspect of science and engineering disciplines. In addition, nanotechnology, and both naturally occurring and engineered nanomaterials, have become the focus of legal, environmental, and application and regulation disciplines. The first portion of this text serves as an introduction to nanotechnology: the history, mathematical concepts, and instruments required to study and manipulate the world at the atomic scale. The later portion of the text discusses the connectivity of nanotechnologyto the more traditional scientific disciplines as well as emerging technologies.

This text can serve as an introduction to the nanoscale for science, computer science, and engineering disciplines. It can also provide a valuable foundation for disciplines such as industrial hygiene, architecture, sociology, ethics, and the humanities. There does not exist an educational discipline, market segment, or career avenue which will not be impacted by nanotechnology.

Deb Newberry served as the Director/Instructor of the Nanoscience Technician program at Dakota County Technical College in Rosemount MN from 2004–2018. She created the 72-credit nanoscience technician program in 2003 and began the program with National Science Foundation funding. Deb also served as the Director and Principle Investigator of the Center for Nanotechnology Education, Nano-Link for over 10 years. Nano-Link has been funded by over $12M from the National Science Foundation. Nano-Link educational content, developed by Deb, has been used by over 900 educators and has reached over 100,000 students. She is a nanotechnology book co-author, has written over 12 book chapters and presented more than 250 presentations and tens of educator workshops. Deb Newberry is currently serving as CEO of Newberry Technology Associates (NTA), a company that provides expertise in organizational structure and efficiency, emerging technologies, strategic planning, technology evolution, and product development. The NTA team performs business and competitive analysis for multiple technologies including nanotechnology, electronics, photonics, material science, additive manufacturing, and biotechnology. By creating an Idea Realization Team, NTA helps to determine how emerging technologies may impact products, companies, and market segments. Prior to her career in education, Deb worked in the corporate world for 24 years performing thermal and radiation testing and analysis on satellite systems and then serving as Executive Director managing over $450M worth of satellite programs. Ms. Newberry led a national committee with a focus on determining the impact of nanotechnology on satellite electronics and has served on multiple advisory boards as well as state and national commissions. She is a member of professional organizations such as the IEEE, ACS, MRS, RCS, and ASEE and serves on multiple conference planning committees.