-
Idea of Nanotechnology Introduced
At the American Physical Society meeting, Richard Feynman describes foundational aspects of nanotechnology in a talk called "There's Plenty of Room at the Bottom." -
The Field is Given a Name
Japanese professor, Norio Taniguchi, names the field "Nano-Technology" in a paper. -
Scanning Tunneling Microscope Invented
The scanning tunneling microscope was invented by Gerd Binning and Heinrich Rohrer. This microscope allowed scientists to see and manipulate individual atoms. -
Fullerenes Discovered
Rice University researchers discover fullerenes, or buckyballs, which can be used to make carbon nanotubes, which is one of the most abundant nanomaterials today. -
Atomic Force Microscope Invented
Calvin Quate, Christoph Gerber and Binning collaborate to invent the atomic force microscope, which becomes one of the most used tools for imaging, measuring, and manipulating at the nanoscale. -
Nanoparticle Manipulation
At IBM's Almaden Research Center in San Jose, California, Don Eigler and Erhard Schweizer spell out company logo using 35 xenon atoms, demonstrating nanoparticle manipulation. -
Carbon Nanotube Invented
Sumio Iijima of NEC creates the carbon nanotube. -
US Government Promotes Nanotechnology Research
The Interagency Working Group on Nanotechnology is formed by the US government to sponsor workshops and studies to define nanotechnology and further applications. -
Nanotechnology Becomes Apparent in Consumer Products
Products making use of nanotechnolgy begin appearing in the global marketplace. -
National Nanotechnology Initiative
President Bill Clinton establishes the National Nanotechnology Initiative to coordinate federal research and development to promote US competitiveness in the field. -
Nanoforum Created
European Union launches meetings called "Nanoforum" to educate public about new technology. -
21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act
Congress enacts 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act to establish programs, assign agency responsibilities, and authorize funding levels for research to address key issues. -
National Research Council Criticizes NNI's Research
National Research Council criticizes NNI's research strategy, NNI disagrees with NRC's overall conclusion. -
EPA Outlines New Strategy
EPA outlines new strategy to further understanding of how manufactured nanomaterials may harm humans and the environment. Manufacturers also now required to inform EPA of their planned applications. -
UK Addresses Nanotechnology and Food Concern
The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee of the United Kingdom issues a report warning the food industry not to hide its use of nanotechnology. -
Toxic Substances Control Act
EPA says additional language it is requesting would make easier regulation of commercial use of nanomaterial. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee continue revising the 30-year-old Toxic Substances Control Act.
