Nanotechnology is a cross-section technology concerned with research and construction in very small structures. 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 application possibilities are manifold, whether in energy technology  (fuel and solar cells), environmental technology  (material cycles and disposal), information technology (memories and processors) or the health sector.

Within the Fraunhofer Society the Fraunhofer Nanotechnology Alliance (encompassing 20 Institutes) focuses on multifunctional coatings for use in such areas as the optical and automotive industries, the design of special nanoparticles for use as fillers and functional materials in biomedical applications, and a novel type of actuator based on carbon nanotubes.

Business areas (crosscutting technologies):

• Nanomaterials / nanochemistry
  Nano optics / electronics
  Nanobiotechnology
  Modeling / simulation 
  Manufacturing technologies, handling