Bending of a nanoscale beam modeled using finite element analysis (FEM)
"The essence of nanotechnology is the ability to work at the molecular level, atom by atom, to create large structures with fundamentally new molecular organization. Compared to the behavior of isolated molecules of about 1 nm (10-9 m) or of bulk materials, behavior of structural features in the range of about 10-9 to 10-7 m (1 to 100 nm) exhibit important changes. Nanotechnology is concerned with materials and systems whose structures and components exhibit novel and significantly improved physical, chemical, and biological properties—and that enable the exploitation of novel phenomena and processes—due to their nanoscale size. The goal is first to exploit these properties by gaining control of structures and devices at atomic, molecular, and supramolecular levels; and then to learn to manufacture and use these devices efficiently. Maintaining the stability of interfaces and the integration of these 'nanostructures' at micron-length and macroscopic scales are all keys to success."

—National Nanotechnology Initiative: The Initiative and its Implementation Plan, National Science and Technology Council (July, 2002)

see also: • Spotlight: Nanotechnology at UGA
• NanoSEC Annual Report
• NanoSEC Bylaws

GOALS OF THE CENTER

The urgent need for a Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center at the University of Georgia became manifestly apparent as a result of the 2001 UGA Comprehensive Engineering Symposium. At this symposium applied nanoscience emerged as one of the primary focus areas that could provide a nucleus for a strong, multidisciplinary applied science and engineering component. The primary goal of the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center is to advance the nanoscale science and engineering effort already present at the University of Georgia. The center will:

  • Bring together researchers from all areas of science and engineering with interest and expertise in the nanotechnology area.
  • Foster new, multidisciplinary collaborative nanotechnology research and educational programs through regular joint seminars, colloquia and workshops.
  • Serve as a credible platform for large-scale multidisciplinary external funding initiatives.
  • Aid in the acquisition and operation of major new nanotechnology infrastructure facilities and instrumentation and the establishment of Eminent Scholar positions.
  • Serve as a conduit for knowledge transfer, interactions and research collaborations with other nanotechnology-related centers/institutes as well as businesses and industry.

NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AREAS

  • Applications of Biological Nanostructures
  • Ceramic and Magnetic Nanoparticles
  • Electrochemical Formation of Nanostructured Compound Semiconductors
  • Nanomachines

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