Nanotechnnology in Flanders (2005)

In its dossier ‘Nanotechnnology in Flanders’, viWTA provides an overview of the state of affairs in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology in Flanders. As a matter of fact, ‘Nano’ promises innovations in a whole range of fields. Electronic chips for instance are getting ultra small. IMEC is developing such tiny ones that they can be discretely integrated, in order to make our environment intelligent. Smartly packaged meat or fish will point out its own deterioration and smart cloths for sportsmen and sportswomen will be able to monitor hart beat and blood pressure.

In the biomedical sciences too, nanotechnology is used. The VIB developed nanoparticles that very adequately destroy cancer cells, meanwhile saving the healthy ones and thus having much less side effects. On top of that, nanotechnology is linking electronics and living matter, for instance by growing nerve cells on a chip. IMEC’s neuron-on-chip technology allows for the communication between brain and electronics. By thinking of a certain movement, paralyzed patients will be able to select letters or icons on a computer display.

All these applications belong to a still far-away future. Others already realized part of their promises. Nanotechnological products such as non-sticky sun lotions, self-cleaning windows, fireproof polymers or wear-resistant materials are already on the market. Nanoparticles are also used in the chemical industry and for the production of military technology. And the use of nanoparticles in solar cells is still under investigation.

But there are also major concerns connected with nanotechnology. The integration of small ICT-systems in our everyday world might greatly affect our privacy. The intelligent environment the electronics industry is promising will be ubiquitous, that is, it sees everything — while being itself invisible — and has a very good memory. Moreover, the possibility of integrating chips in our brain shows that nanotechnology is able to make the boundaries between man and environment fade away. Since our brain is considered as the centre of our self-consciousness, this raises a lot of ethical questions. NGOs, such as the Canadian ETC group, also denounce the lack of knowledge of the long-term effects. Nanoparticles could turn up in the air, in the soil, in the ground water and harm the environment and the human health. It remains unclear how big the real threat is.

Nanotechnology is very promising. Revolutionary new applications will contribute to more prosperity, well-being and sustainability. But scientists confirm the vagueness about the potential risks for mankind and society. Experts ask for transparent and complete information of the public. They think it is time for nanotechnologists and the Flemish authorities to join hands and to inform the Flemish citizen about the opportunities and risks of this fascinating scientific discipline.