May 17, 2005 Contrary to popular opinion, not all nanotechnologists are materials scientists and not all nanotechnology discussions revolve around new carrier molecules, crystals, polymers, lithography, and the like. In fact, as practiced by the avant-garde, nanotechnology is way ahead of the curve and very different from the more practical applications we presented so far. The true avant-garde are the nano-machines people. Their devices have onboard computers, sensors, and active engineering elements like pumps, valves, and joints. These devices self-assemble, auto-repair or reproduce. Here is the realm of the “nano-spaceships” that float around in your body fixing things or carrying out search and destroy missions. It may seem like science fiction, but these nanotechnology devices may someday provide the ultimate biotech therapies...
