Nano scale represents one billionth of a meter (0.000 000 001m). The word is derived from the Greek word νᾶνος, meaning dwarf (small).

Breakthroughs in nanotechnology have provided unprecedented ability to synthesize, deposit, manipulate, and integrate novel materials at nano scale. This has allowed major product performance enhancements and creation of new products. Nano scale materials provide high surface-to-volume ratios, pristine material properties, novel material behavior, and greater packing density.

These simple but powerful abilities are generating the manufacturing innovations of the 21st century. Billions of dollars of nanotechnology research and development have led to product innovations across numerous market sectors and improved quality of life across the globe.