[20070802]RS20589_操纵分子：联邦支持纳米技术研究.pdf

1 For purposes of this report, the term “nano” can be applied to technology, measurement,science, or other research fields. The size of an average virus is equal to one nanometer (nm).Order Code RS20589Updated August 2, 2007Manipulating Molecules: Federal Support forNanotechnology ResearchMichael E. DaveySpecialist in Science and TechnologyResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryThe Bush Administration requested $1.447 billion for nanotechnology research inFY2008, a $56 million increase over the estimated $1.391 billion for FY2007. (SeeTable 1.) Nanotechnology is a newly emerging field of science where scientists andengineers are beginning to manipulate matter at the molecular and atomic levels in orderto obtain materials and systems with significantly improved properties. Ten nanometersis equal to one-ten thousandth the diameter of a human hair. Proponents of thistechnology argue that nanotechnology will lead to a new industrial revolution in the 21stcentury. Scientists note that nanotechnology is still in its infancy, with large scalepractical applications 10 to 30 years away. Congressional concerns include thedistribution of Program Component Area funding levels, the pot