A measure of success

A recent report said that the UK risks falling behind in nanotechnology. But there are some areas of nano where the UK is clearly a pioneer and a world leader.

The report from the

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— said government hadn't made the progress it promised on research into the risks of nanotechnology. It pointed particularly to an absence of research into its toxicity, health and environmental impacts.

It did, however, note good progress in nanotechnology standards and metrology. This is a field in which we enjoy global leadership, and one that underpins all other nano research. The UK's lead here is not the result of good luck, it comes from a determined funding effort and recognition that measurement and characterisation have a vital underpinning role in nanotech.

It is concerning then, that the report also suggests government funding has developed nanometrology to the point where there is now sufficient demand from industry to improve our capabilities with only minimal future state support. The report acknowledges that past spending was necessary and highly effective but suggests future government programmes should give priority to toxicology, health and environmental impacts rather than metrology.