By 2015, nanotechnology could be a $1 trillion industry. Now, renowned nanotech pioneer Mark Ratner and technology entrepreneur Daniel Ratner show you how nanotech works, why it's so exciting, what's new, and what's next. They survey the entire field?technology and business?covering nanobots, molecular electronics, quantum computing, biostructures, nanotubes, molecular motors, nanosensors, and many other breakthrough applications. They provide easy-to-understand explanations of every key concept, plus dozens of visuals that bring nanotechnology to life. Coverage includes:

• A simple, brief, almost math-free introduction to nanotech science
• "Grand tour" of nanotech R&D, from "smart materials" to DNA computing
• Breakthrough biomedical applications, including neuro-electronic interfaces and new drug delivery systems
• Current and emerging nanotech systems for optoelectronics and communications
• Nanotech here and now: nano-enhanced tennis balls, suntan lotions, and other products already in the market
• A realistic assessment of nanotech investment opportunities for the short- and long-term
• Ethical issues associated with nanotech research and product development

Explaining how nanotechnology works and looking at recent advances and the future of the field, this book offers a simple, brief, almost math-free introduction for nonscientists. Early chapters give background on concepts needed to understand nanotechnology, and later chapters visit research laboratories, look at breakthroughs in smart materials, electronics, and optics, and discuss the relationship of nanotechnology to society. Color illustrations are included. Mark Ratner teaches chemistry at Northwestern University; Daniel Ratner is an engineer and technology entrepreneur. Annotation (c)2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

This is an explanation of what Nanotechnology is all about and its business aspects, written in an approachable and witty style. Nanotechnology's impact will reach beyond science to touch the everyday health, work, and businesses.

MARK RATNER, winner of the 2001 Feynman Prize in Nanotechnology, is Charles E. and Emma H. Morrison Professor in Chemistry at Northwestern University. He is widely credited as the "father of molecular-scale electronics"—thanks to his groundbreaking work with Ari Aviram that first envisioned how electronic circuit elements might be constructed from single molecules and how these circuits might behave. Ratner is a member of both the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Sciences. He lectures worldwide on nanotechnology and its implications.

DANIEL RATNER, an engineer and tech entreprenteur, has founded two successful technology startup companies, serves as industry advisor to several other high-tech ventures, and was recently awarded the prestigious "30 Under 30" entrepreneurs' award by Philly Tech magazine.

Preface.

1. Introducing Nano.

2. Size Matters.

3. Interlude One-The Fundamental Science Behind Nanotechnology.

4. Interlude Two: Tools of the Nanosciences.

5. Points and Places of Interest: The Grand Tour.

6. Smart Materials.

7. Sensors.

8. Biomedical Applications.

9. Optics and Electronics.

10. Nanobusiness.

11. Nanotechnology and You.

Resources.

Glossary.

Index.

About the Authors.