NANO: WHERE ART MEETS SCIENCE

August 18, 2004
		Through an interactive exhibit, professors James Gimzewski and Victoria Vesna from the University of California at Los Angeles hope to inform visitors about the basics and uses of nanotechnology. The two answer your questions on nanotechnology, and how art can help us better understand the complex field.

Online NewsHour Special Report: Nanotechnology: Where Art and Science Meet Forum Introduction What are the potential applications for nanotechnology in medical science? What are some examples of the use of nanotechnology in practical applications today? What about the dangers of novel, tiny molecular assemblages interacting in unforeseen ways with the biota? What are the theological implications of nanotechnology? Is this exhibit going to be traveling to other art museums or "nano" conferences around the country?	Angela Lauria Baumann of Bay Shore, N.Y., asks: Can you provide examples of the use of nanotechnology in practical applications in our world at this time? Professors James Gimzewski and Victoria Vesna respond: There as of now very few significant examples of nanotechnology in daily use. Most practical examples are from the field of material science such as the self-cleaning windows that are already in production. The coating in the glass uses the power of sunlight to remove dirt deposits. Already in use ofr a few years are stain resistant materials used on clothes such as the Dockers jeans. In computing, pentium chips already use critical dimensions on the nanoscale. Also, hybrid plastics use nanoparticles that radically increase the flame-retardant properties. Finally, cosmetic manufacturers have used nano particles for sunscreen. However, the general economic impact of nanotechnology is many years away and the really big changes will come in unexpected ways.