Increasing nanotechnological capabilities will benefit basic studies of cell biology and pathology. Moreover, biocompatible, high-performance materials will result from controlling their nanostructure. Nanotechnology-enabled increases in computational power will permit the characterization of macromolecular networks in realistic environments. Such simulations will be essential elements in the development of biocompatible implants and in the drug discovery process. Energy Nanotechnology has the potential to significantly impact energy efficiency, storage, and production.
Nanotechnology can change the economics of energy production.
For instance, nanometer-sized solar cells could be developed to provide much of the energy needed around the world. We already know how to make solar cells. Nanotechnology would cut their costs, finally making solar power economical. In fact, it could supply orders of magnitude more energy than people now use, and it would be cleaner and safer than any of our current methods for making power. The impact on industrial control, manufacturing, and processing will be impressive and result in energy savings.