A brief history of nanoscience and foresight in nanotechnology

Abstract

Nanotechnology as a natural continuation of microtechnology introduced a new bottom-up approach in the building of structures. In this paper we summarize a brief history of nanoscience and nanotechnology by documenting the main milestones on the roadmap of this branch since the beginning of the twentieth century. We discuss the new properties of materials and structures appearing in the nanoworld that originate from both classical and quantum phenomena. We provide a critical analysis of inflated versus realistic expectations of the new technology. Attention is also paid to risks and regulations in the field, as well as codes of conduct of responsible nanoscientists and specific aspects of nanoethics that open a new chapter in ethical studies. The study elaborates on five foresight topics covering the building of structures atom-by-atom, the possibilities to close the appearing nano-divide, the future of silicon, single-particle devices, and sustainability in the field and single-particle devices. Among single particle devices the focus is on the transistors and sensors. We also highlight the role of social sciences and humanities in nanoscience and nanotechnology in the fields such as philosophy, psychology, security, the protection of privacy and intellectual property rights. Ethics is the main area of these activities.