Key Areas of Instrumentation and Characterization Include

Scanning probe techniques: observation + operation.

Some aspects of electron microscopy.

Some aspects of surface analysis.

Field emission + field ion microscopy + atomic probe analysis.

Nanomanipulators using principles of mechanical / optical / electric / magnetic / piezo techniques.

Test, calibration and measurement: Standards, benchmarks, procedures.

Nanotools, nanomotors, nanomachines.

Nanoprobes: production, characterization, multiprobes.

Equipment to characterize magnetic / optical / electrical / mechanical properties of nanostructures with high spatial resolution.

Microfluidics.

Focused ion beam technology.

Computer software for data analysis and representation, simulation, modeling An essential stage in the development of a large scale nanotechnology industry is the creation of machine tools for the production of nanodevices, and test, measurement and inspection techniques to aid manufacturers and provide quality control of nano products. It is also an area where knowledge has been, and continues to be transferred from research institutions to industry. It is the first nano area to become economically active, including the creation on numerous small and medium-sized companies.

Machine tools for nanotechnology are already being developed in Japan, the USA and (to a limited extent) in the UK. Not only is it already an economically viable aspect of nanotechnology, but its strategic significance is very high. These machines will have to underpin all future production of nanodevices, and it is very important that the UK should play a key role in their development.