Since 2009 Fraunhofer ENAS belongs to the Fraunhofer Alliance Nanotechnology. There are 20 Institutes cooperating in this alliance (Fraunhofer ENAS, IAO, IAP, ICT, IFAM, IFF, IGB, IISB, IKTS, ILT, IPA, ISC, ISE, ISI, ITEM, IVV, IWM, IWS, IZFP, LBF).

The activities of the Nanotechnology Alliance cover the whole R&D value chain and are focused on e.g. multifunctional coatings for use in the optical, automotive and electronics industry, the design of special nanoparticles as fillers (carbon nanotubes, metals, oxides etc), nanocomposites, functional materials e.g for biomedical applications and CNT-based structural materials and actuators. The alliance also treats questions regarding toxicology and operational safety when dealing with nanoparticles.

Nanotechnology is a cross-section technology concerned with research and construction in very small structures. A nanometer corresponds to a millionth of a millimeter. It is a discipline which offers more potential for innovative applications than any other, as special physical laws apply on the nano-level. The optical, electrical or chemical properties of established materials can be altered completely by manipulation of the nanostructure.

The alliance focuses its activities on the following main topics:

• Nanobiotechnology

• Nanomaterials

• Technology transfer and consulting

• Nano processing / handling

• Nanooptics and -electronics Measuring methods/ techniques

Link: http://www.nano.fraunhofer.de/