Nanotechnology is science, engineering, and technology conducted at the nanoscale, which is about 1 to 100 nanometers; it is the manipulation of matter on an atomic, molecular, and supramolecular scale. The sector is vastly developed in Germany compared to its neighbouring countries and offers a wide range of products.
With its already significant reputation and expertise in science and R&D, Germany increases its presence in nanotechnological markets especially in pharmaceuticals, automotive, optical, and chemical industries both domestically and internationally. Each year, the German government comes up with new initiatives through funding in order to maintain its leading position in Europe.
Nanotechnology sector in Germany
Germany
In Germany, the R&D expenditures account for 3 per cent of GDP and are the third highest in the EU following Sweden and Austria and Nanotechnology is a big part of this expenditure. According to GTAI (Germany Trade and Invest), About 50 % of the nanotechnology companies in Europe belong to Germany, making the country number one in Europe in the nanotechnology industry.
German companies manufacture products in the areas of nanomaterials, nanotools, nano analytics, and nanotools accessories (e.g. vacuum and cleanroom technology, plasma sources, etc.). They also manufacture and utilize nano-optimized components and systems, and they provide services in the areas of consulting, contract coating, technology transfer, and commissioned analysis and research.
The nanotechnology industry is mainly funded by BMBF – The Germany Federal Ministry of Education through various projects. The government set three action plans since 2010 to boost competitiveness and support German manufacturers and distributors.
Today, there are over 700 research institutions and groups that focus on nanotechnology, particularly in nanomaterials.
Nanotechnology Organizations in Germany
Altogether there are 153 companies in Germany with a nanotechnology focus. There are also many universities research programs and non-profit organisations focusing on nanotechnological enhancement.
Nanotech institutes in Germany
Center for Applied Nanotechnology
The center serves for the research institutions and companies and provides research and development services in the field of nanotechnology. A few of their projects include:
Development and improvement of nanostructured composite materials for innovative systems for generation and storage of energy
Clinical diagnostics of Diabetes—In Vivo Imaging of Beta-cell Receptors by Applied NanoTechnology (VIBRANT)
Ludwig-Maximilians-University
The university has a Center for nanoscience that supports nanotech study, which, in turn, supports and coordinates interdisciplinary studies in the nanoscience field in the Munich area and consolidates nanoscale research activities from the fields of medicine, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, and biophysics.
Jacobs University of Bremen
The university supports study and research in the area of nanotechnology through the NANOFUN Research Center for Functional Materials and Nanomolecular Science. The Center uses basic molecular and theoretical knowledge to develop functional nanostructures and materials. The research domain of nanomolecular science and functional materials extends into numerous disciplines.
University of Kassel
The university supports nanotechnology-based research and studies through the institutes mentioned below:
Institute of Nanostructure Technologies and Analytics works on research and development of optical as well as optoelectronic devices with micro and nanostructure technologies, focusing on application-oriented fundamental research.
Center for Interdisciplinary Nanostructure Science and Technology (CiNSaT) develops nanoscience activities in association with the departments of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, computer science, natural sciences, mathematics, and philosophy. CiNSaT focuses on theoretical analysis, synthesis, and characterization and application of nanostructures.
Saarland University, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, University of Konstanze, University of Hannover, The Laboratory of Nano and Quantum Engineering, The Center for Quantum Engineering and Space-Time Research, The School for Contacts in Nanosystems, CeNTech are just a few more important universities and institutes with research on nanotechnology.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Germany is one of the best countries to invest in technology and innovation. It is committed to highly-effective research and development, and its possible positive impact on the German economy. Germany is determined to extend the research activity and advance in nanotechnology for the foreseeable future.
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