1. RIPPLE EFFECT
OF SCIENCE
822409116
By Kartik Uppal
Nanotechnology

2. Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................2
History ........................................................................................................................................2
Connections:..............................................................................................................................3
Impact on Individual and Society...............................................................................................4
Current Work..............................................................................................................................4
Positive Future Technological Impact .......................................................................................5
The Law of Unintended Consequences ....................................................................................6
Summary....................................................................................................................................6
Personal Reflection:...................................................................................................................7

3. Introduction
Nanotechnology overtime has become extremely relevant as it is deeply integrated
into our everyday lives. When one breaks down the term, the prefix “nano” is defined as very
small, and technology can refer to the practical application of technical process and
knowledge (Marriam Webster, 2015). Nanotechnology, often used interchangeably with
nanoscience, can be referred to as the study and manipulation of matter at extremely small
scales, specifically 1 to 100 nanometres (nm) (Nano.gov 2015) Matter behaves differently at
a nanoscale when referring to its physical and chemical properties. Understanding such
phenomena can bring many industrial applications such as health and medicine, cosmetics,
food, and many military applications. The topic at hand was of incredible interest to me
because during my years in high school, I aspired to study nanotechnology in future studies.
Though now I am in my last year completing a Bachelor’s of Commerce with a major in
accounting, I can acknowledge that I studied the topic in my undergraduate studies, though
not extensively.
History
The use of nanomaterials in prehistoric times persisted through stained glass
artwork, cutlery, and weaponry in the 4th
century. (Nano.gov 2016). The demonstrations of
nanotechnology in early civilizations showcase a pre-modern understanding of the
manipulation of materials through heat. Richard Zsigmondy, a chemist and Nobel Prize
winner born in 1865, was first to indirectly release material in relation to nanotechnology
Zsigmony. He established the term nanometre in reference to the size of a particle as he
was one of the first to measure the size of particles through a microscope. Though he was
not directly referring to nanotechnology, he was extensively involved in particle research
which would assist in the study of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology in modern consideration

4. was introduced by physicist Richard Feynman, who in 1959, presented the fundamentals
concepts of nanotechnology in a lecture at the American Physical Societ. He is often coined
as the father of nanotechnology as he inspired others such as Norio Taniguchi and Eric
Drexler to use the term in their studies. By incorporating his research into their aspects of
science, other discoveries were revealed in physics (Nano.gov 2016) In 1886, Gerd Binnig
and others invented the an atomic-force microscope that was able to measure and
manipulate matter at the nanoscale (Hulla JE, 2015). This paved way for other researchers
such as Sumio Iijima, who led to the discovery of the carbon nanotube as a strong material
that could have many uses in electronics and other technologies (Hulla JE, 2015). The
everyday consumer would start using products that incorporated nanotechnology in the early
2000’s through automobiles, golfballs, cosmetics, clothing as well as the electronics we now
take for granted along with many implications in the health sciences.
Connections:
As discussed in the history, the study of nanotechnology relies heavily on other aspects of
science, specifically physics and chemistry. The combination of innovations and discoveries
by chemists and physicists alike facilitated the research of nanotechnology and
nanoscience. Physics allowed the discovery of the nanotube which led to the exploration of
other nanomaterials. This has given rise to the field of carbon nano-technology which relies
on all aspects of science. Molecular engineering is concerned with manufacturing molecules
and is another aspect of science which dependent on nanotechnology. This form of science
takes advantage of the chemical properties of materials at the nanoscale as nanotechnology
researchers often rely on chemical manufacturers to produce nano-materials in order aid
with research and in creating technologies. Nanotechnologies also assist in the study of
quantum mechanics which also considers matter at the nanoscale.

5. Impact on Individual and Society
Nanotechnology has been embedded into many aspects of my life that I take for
granted. It is difficult to find a product that does not utilize nanotechnology in some aspect
from a laptop, cellular phone, writing utensils, household appliances and many more.
Nanomaterials have a wide array of uses that have allowed myself and others to live an
incredibly easier life through either convenience, innovation or health benefits. The benefits
of nanotechnology have led to competitive research between societies around the world,
specifically governing bodies (Hulla JE) Global powers have created institutions with the
intent of further advancements of nanotechnology for military and consumer purposes.
Nanotechnologies can enable technological advancements in societies through research but
can also benefit localities through meeting specific needs such as health and manufacturing.
With the positive consequences come negative aspects both anticipated and unintended.
The creation of nanomaterials can produce polluting byproducts that can have lasting
negative effects on the earth's’ environment. (Wickson 2010) The environmental impacts
have come to recent attention and could possibly have unintended consequences. Research
has concluded that nanomaterials have had negative effects on bacteria and other micro-
organisms, fish, plants and other mammal causing tissue damage and respiratory problems
in mammals. (international journal of emerging technologies)
Current Work
There are many agencies created for the advancement of nanotechnology and nanoscience.
The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is a research and development organization
created by the U.S government in order to use nanotechnology for the benefits of society.
Organizations as such that facilitate the expansion of nanotechnology have given rise to
recent work. Nanotechnology are aiming to provide many solutions in the medical field as

6. well as manufacturing. Researchers at the University of Southern California have created a
method that can mass produce nanomaterials easier and faster than previously possible
through the understanding of fluids (ScienceDaily 2016). The Hebrew University of
Jerusalem has developed a nanotechnology that can aid in the treatment of skin diseases
(ScienceDaily 2016). Through the use of nano droplets, researchers found a way to activate
the body’s natural skin mechanism. NNI has outlined several goals the organization wishes
to achieve. These goals include the research and development for agricultural needs,
facilitating education and supporting responsible. Perhaps one of the most interesting goals
is to transition existing technologies used for national security into everyday consumer use.
Positive Future Technological Impact
There may be many positive technological implications due to nanotechnology. The
medical industry could see major advances in cancer treatment and could possible eliminate
the need for harmful radiation. Nanotechnologies could be produced that would circulate the
bloodstream, repairing cells as needed (Futurenanotechnology 2016). Technological
advances in security would benefit from nanotechnology as cameras, microphone, and GPS
trackers could be created at the nanoscale, being impossible to detect or manipulate. Our
clothing could reap many benefit as nanomaterials could allow for stronger fabrics which
could retain, repel heat or water and could possibly be bulletproof or even integrated with
other technologies such as smartphones. Though some future implications of
nanotechnology are foreseeable, it is impossible to be certain as technology goes to
exponential innovation. The possible benefits may be unimaginable at the moment due to
the current understanding of nanotechnology and nanoscience. The future holds numerous
possibilities of technological advances.

7. The Law of Unintended Consequences
The use of nanotechnology allows for a better understanding of molecular systems
and processes however there are several drawbacks to consider. Specifically,
nanotechnology can drive advances in drug delivery and tissue regeneration in the human
body. However there are many concerns such as nanoparticles that may enter cells and may
be incompatible with tissues. Already there is a large concern over nanoparticles inhaled
from construction sites and mining, therefore manufacturing more nano-products may affect
human health. The application of nanotechnology in military services pose a major concern
to the safety of the greater public. Through implanted nanodevices, brain-machine interfaces
and artificial intelligence, military warfare will become uncontrolled with deadlier weapons,
lighter vehicles and advanced sensors. Nanobiotechnology can develop chemical agents
and robotized microbes which could be used to infect and eliminate specific targets.
Although these upgrades provide more efficiency to soldiers, there is a huge risk in such
technology as it could escape to public use and serve as an enormous threat. An extreme
risk would be if robotic soldiers or vehicles failed to distinguish between enemy targets and
civilians leading to deaths, violation of international warfare laws, and chaos.
Summary
Indeed, nanotechnology brings forth many positive implications to society. Through
advances in all aspects of science including physics and chemistry, the fundamentals of
nanotechnology are being explored and the benefits can be seen today in all industries.
Facilitating a paradigm shift in science, nanotechnology will pave the way for a advanced
technological integrated society. The benefits of the study outweigh the negative aspects
and further research should be encouraged in the field. However, research on the

8. environmental impacts of nanotechnology should be continued extensively as the true
implications are yet unknown. Scientists and researchers should shift their focus on creating
nanotechnologies that can be integrated with the environment in attempt to aid and better
understand the world around us. The use of nanotechnology may have short-term benefits,
but the long-term benefits will only be seen through its ethical and sustainable use.
Personal Reflection:
Being a relative modern topic of study, it was required little effort to obtain research in
regards to nanotechnology. The study combines all aspects of science which made
researching an easier task. I was surprised to discover that nanotechnology, though
contributing to electronics, is not the study of electronics at the nanoscale. I found it difficult
to assess the future technological implications of nanotechnology as there are so many
possibilities. Military application of nanotechnology is extensive but information in regards to
these applications tend to be confidential. However, the NNI aims to transition many military
applications into consumer markets which will beneficial but also interesting to see. Though
this subject does not directly relate to accounting, knowledge of the industry will possibly
give me the technological advantage needed to be successful in my future business
endeavors. I will always consider Nano technological applications, whether it be in food I eat,
technology I use or businesses I create.

9. References
Futurenanotechnology.net,. "Future Nanotechnology". N.p., 2016. Web. 1 Mar. 2016.
Hulla, JE, SC Sahu, and AW Hayes. Nanotechnology: History And Future. 1st ed. UK:
SAGE Publishing, 2015. Print.
Nano.gov,. "NANO". N.p., 2016. Web. 25 Feb. 2016.
ScienceDaily,. "Nanotechnology Delivery System Offers New Approach To Skin Disease
Therapies: Formula That Activates The Body's Natural Defense Against Free Radicals
Could Control A Variety Of Skin Pathologies And Disorders". N.p., 2016. Web. 19
Feb,. 2016.
ScienceDaily,. "The Key To Mass-Producing Nanomaterials: Researchers Create A System
That Can Scale-Up Production Of The Smallest -- But Among The Most Useful --
Materials Of This Century". N.p., 2016. Web. 19 Feb. 2016.
Wickson, Fem, Khara Greiger, and Anders Baun. Nature And Nanotechnology: Science
Ideology And Policy. 1st ed. Denmark: Technical University of Denmark, 2010. Print.