|  Electroceramics  |  Nanoceramics  |  Structural Ceramics  |

"NANO" is a buzz word for a reason. By the close of the 20th Century, large-scale industrial operations were run by computers and robots, far exceeding imaginations of 19th Century science fiction writers. This century will see the miniaturization and increased capacity of many things made with materials. Material scientists are challenged to control and build nanostructures to test, discover, and utilize the potential we know exists.

Some of the areas with promise in the early stages of nanotechnology development include:

• Controlled Nanostructures for Structural Applications
  
  - Continuous coatings for corrosive environments
  
  - Precision blade edges
  
  - Nozzles and filters
  
  - Strengthening and toughening of lightweight ceramics

• Electronic and Optical Applications
  
  - Precision thin layer multilayer capacitors
  
  - Continuous smooth nanocrystalline thin films for sensors and electrochromic materials
  
  - Size reduction and control of electro-mechanical devices
  
  - Nanotube arrays
  
  - Quantum dot structures
  
  - Optical filters

• Energy Storage and Savings
  
  - Fuel cells with controlled composition and reproducible behavior
  
  - Inexpensive solar cells
  
  - Efficient micro-batteries

• Biomedical and Bioactive Applications
  
  - Biomaterials such as valves for artificial hearts
  
  - Internal drug release devices

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