What are opportunities and dangers of nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology is the study of the controlling of matter
on an atomic and molecular scale. It involves developing materials or devices of the
size 100 nanometers or smaller in at least one dimension. Nanotechnology field is very
diverse, ranging from extensions of conventional physical devices to developing
completely new approaches such as of manufacturing and using materials involving
molecular self assembly.

Nanotechnology can be used to
create many new materials and devices with a vast range of applications in fields such
as medicine, electronics and energy production. At the same time, nanotechnology also
raises many concerns, as is usual with any introduction of new technology. Possible
negative impact of nanotechnology include toxicity and environmental impact of nano
materials.

Presently there are about one thousand publicly
available nanotechnology products. Most of these products use passive nano materials
such as titanium dioxide in sunscreen, cosmetics and some food products; carbon
allotropes used to produce gecko tape; silver in food packaging, clothing, disinfectants
and household appliances; zinc oxide in sunscreens and cosmetics, surface coatings,
paints and outdoor furniture varnishes; and cerium oxide as a fuel catalyst. As yet
there are no applications that involve physical devices made by actual arrangement and
manipulation of nano scale components.

However nano
technology may be used for purposes which could pose threats to people and life. For
example, development of untraceable weapons of mass destruction, networked
cameras.

The effect of industrial-scale manufacturing and
use of nano materials could also have many negative effects on human health and the
environment. For example silver nano particles used in socks to reduce foot odor when
released released in the wash may destroy beneficial bacteria that help breaking down
organic matter in waste treatment plants or farms. Researches have found that nano
particles breathed in by rats settle in their brain and lungs, causing significant
health problems Another study indicates that nano particles induce skin aging in
hairless mice.

Looking at these facts, I believe,
nanotechnology is a field with many useful promises for future, and should be developed
further and used. However like all new inventions, it also poses many dangers. We must
adopt adequate caution and care in developing and using this
technology.