National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI)

The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is a research-and development (R & D) program funded by the U.S. government and managed by the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). It contributes funds for university and government education and R & D programs, and promotes partnerships and communication among corporations, government agencies, and educational institutions.

The efforts of the NNI have produced several significant results in recent years. Examples include quantum dot s for dynamic angiography in living mice, nanoparticle s for enhancing the performance of anti-cancer drugs, nanoscale electromechanical sensors for detection of dangerous chemicals, iron nanoparticles that can remove certain contaminants from ground water, energetic materials for use as propellants, and ultra-high-density data storage devices.