Nanotechnology and metamaterials: Conceptualization and intersection for new opportunities

Although the worldwide nanotechnology market is currently estimated to be 2 trillion dollars, its continuing growth presents both opportunities and challenges. The opportunities are concentrated in the reliable and inexpensive fabrication of nanomaterials, integrated electronics and optoelectronics, bionanotechnology and nanomedicine, and nanometrology. The health impacts of proliferating nanotechnology continue to cause concerns; the convergence of nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, and cognition science could lead to reduced individual liberties; and the specter of a "nanodivide" between the rich and the poor still looms.