ABSTRACT

This chapter introduces the concept of nanotechnology and describes some practical applications of nanotechnology in the consumer marketplace. Ancient forms of nanotechnology such as the Lycurgus cup, Damascus swords, and stained-glass windows will be discussed in this chapter. Additionally, early contributions to the field on nanotechnology made by Michael Faraday, Richard Feynman, K. Eric Drexler, and Donald M. Eigler are included. The chapter concludes with an overview of examples of nanotechnology used in nature.