Papers by Keyword: Nanoscience

Abstract: This talk is intended to give an overview of research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (N&N) in France and especially at the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), which has made research in N&N one of its five priorities. In the first part we list the main scientific issues at stake, as they were identified in a recent scientific workshop held at CNRS. In the second part we present the French organization of research in N&N and give comparative estimates of the funding in France, Europe, USA and Japan. We end up by summarizing some elements of CNRS strategy in the field.

Abstract: Nanosciences and nanotechnology (NST) constitute currently a major research field all over the world. NST deal with the study of phenomena and manipulation of materials at atomic, molecular and macromolecular scales, where properties differ significantly from those at the larger scale. The properties of materials can be different at the nanoscale for two main reasons : size and quantum effects. Effects negligible at the macroscopic level become important at the nanometer scale, and vice versa. Scaling laws are described in order to understand some differences. Moreover, geometric arguments are necessary to understand the origin of some physical and chemical properties of nanosystems. On the other hand, quantum effects can begin to dominate the behaviour of matter at the nanoscale – particularly at the lower end – affecting the optical, electrical and magnetic behaviour of materials. The characteristic dimensions for which the properties change from the “macro-“ to the “nano-“ regimes are discussed.

Abstract: NaPolyNet is a 36 month project involving 15 partners from 10 European countries. The objectives are: 1) to network at regional, national and international level with experts on the characterization of polymer nanostructured materials in the field of packaging, textiles and membranes, bridging the gap between scientific and engineering approaches for the improved understanding of the structure-performance correlation in polymer devices; 2) to facilitate transnational access to important and unique equipment and to train young scientists and SMEs technologists; 3) to harmonize the work necessary for new standards in the field of characterization of polymer nanostructures for packaging, textiles and membranes. NaPolyNet will also focus on latest findings for managing the safety implications of polymer nanostructure along the life-cycle of those products. The activities are grouped into 7 work-packages (WP). After setting up the procedures for managing the project, the team will map the competences in the different field of characterization of polymer nanostructures and will set up an European Open Laboratory (EOL) open to outside the consortium partners incorporating the best and novel characterization methodologies and expertises. The EOL will allow average trained users of equipment for thermal, structural, morphological, mechanical characterization to produce reliable data on nanostructured materials and correctly interpret them. An international Workshop is planned on processing-structure-dynamics-and-properties of polymer nanostructures in order to further support development and design of intrinsically safe nanomaterials. The last part of the project will be dedicated to harmonize the work for preparation of new standards for polymeric nanomaterials characterization and to overcome barriers to the industrial application of polymer nanostructured materials especially in SMEs.