Title: Will small technologies continue to shape the future?

Authors: David Tolfree

Addresses: Technopreneur Ltd & MANCEF, 469 Stockport Road, Denton, Manchester, UK

Abstract: The future will be shaped by new products, new processes and new systems. These will result from continuing innovation and the exploitation of knowledge. They will radically change our way of life and fuel the Global Economy. What contribution will small technologies, that embrace micro-nanotechnologies, make to these changes? Technological developments in the last century established a semiconductor industry that progressed from the transistor to the integrated circuit, with microchips becoming sophisticated, smart and cheap to manufacture. They enabled the rapid growth of the computer and IT industries that have produced the products that can be bought in high street shops. The convergence of small technologies with computer, information and biotechnologies technologies will drive this new wave forward in unpredictable directions as it generates new products and systems that will change work patterns and lifestyles. Decision-makers in Government and industry will need to be more cognizant of such changes if they are to make informed investment decisions.

Keywords: nanotechnology; nanoparticles; nanoproducts; nanomanufacturing; nanoscale science; nanocoatings; nanomaterials; commercialisation; convergence; nanostructures.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTTC.2008.020341

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2008 Vol.7 No.2/3, pp.107 - 113

Published online: 18 Sep 2008 *

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