Nanotechnology refers to a field whose focus is the control of matter on an atomic and molecular scale. Generally, nanotechnology deals with structures at dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers (nm), about 1/80,000 the diameter of a human hair. These nanoscale materials display unique characteristics, which enable novel applications and make them of interest to researchers. Nanotechnology holds the potential of providing a multitude of health and environmental benefits including improved air and water purification, alternative and cleaner fuel and energy sources, more efficient mechanical and manufacturing processes, better medical diagnostics and treatment, and better performing materials.

Although naturally occurring nanomaterials, such as volcanic ash and mist from breaking ocean waves, have existed for millions of years, today’s focus is on the stewardship of newly engineered nanomaterials.

PPG is actively involved in nanotechnology, from Research & Development to the commercialization of several products that either contain nanoparticles within a polymeric matrix structure or are formed as nanostructured films on a substrate by physical or chemical vapor deposition processes.

PPG's award winning CeramiClear® automotive coating was the first automotive clearcoat to use nanoparticle technology. CeramiClear offers state-of-the-art scratch and acid-etch resistance and outstanding gloss retention after weathering and washing.

Nanoparticles provide excellent abrasion resistance in automotive coatings, and PPG’s CeramiClear® was the world’s first commercial nano-composite automotive clearcoat. PPG’s SunClean™ Windows are “self-cleaning” and contain an external thin film coating containing nanoparticles.

PPG has programs in place to manage the development and implementation of environmental, health and safety aspects of nanomaterials, including participation in international industry groups, collaboration with government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and funding of programs critical to the safe and successful manufacture and application of nanotechnology. PPG maintains its commitment to public and environmental stewardship with a major emphasis on fostering nanomaterial technologies that can have a positive impact on society as a whole.

Recent highlights from PPG’s Nanotechnology efforts: 

• PPG has developed and implemented guidelines for the handling of nanomaterials within research and development facilities and manufacturing operations.
• PPG was one of 14 members of the Nanotechnology Occupational Safety & Health (NOSH) Consortium, an early international industry, government and NGO group, dedicated to the research of safety and health implications of nanomaterials. This group has completed work to: 1) develop a nanoparticle generator and characterize the aerosol as a function of time; 2) measure filtration and barrier efficiency of various filter media to specific engineered nanoparticles (e.g. respirator filter media, protective clothing, gloves, etc.) for use in protecting personnel from nano-particles; and 3) develop a prototype device for use in exposure monitoring of nanoparticles in air.
• PPG joined the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) voluntary Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program in 2008 and has provided test and other data in support of EPA’s call for industry information regarding the application of nanotechnology.
• PPG was an original member of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) Nanotechnology Panel. We are members of task groups in the European Paint Association (CEPE) that are addressing nanotechnology applications and are actively following scientific and regulatory developments worldwide.
• PPG is proactively participating in the legislative process regarding nanotechnology developments. During our chairmanship of the ACC Nano Panel, PPG made a presentation regarding nanotechnology risk assessments to the Department of Energy and participated in various US congressional hearings regarding nanotechnology.
• PPG is one of the founding members and sponsors of the Pennsylvania NanoMaterials Commercialization Center. PPG serves on the Board of Directors and on the Technical Advisory Committee. The focus of the Center is on driving nanotechnology towards commercial realization. The Center is committed to fostering active programs to deal with the Environment Health and Safety aspects of nanomaterials, including the safe manufacture, use and handling of nanomaterials.
• PPG serves on the Advisory Board for the Pennsylvania Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology (NMT) Partnership, a higher education collaborative dedicated to creating and updating a workforce in Pennsylvania trained in the field of nanotechnology.
• Nanotechnology is a rapidly evolving technology and there is increasing interest from companies, government, universities, NGOs and the public. PPG continues its support of:
  
• the development of data to better understand application of nanotechnology
• understanding nanotechnology’s impact throughout the whole product life-cycle
• ensuring that there is minimal impact on human health, the environment and society
• standardization of terms and definitions

More information on nanotechnology can be found at the following websites: 

• National Nanotechnology Initiative (United States): http://www.nano.gov/ 
• American Chemistry Council Nanotechnology Panel: http://www.americanchemistry.com/s_acc/sec_statistics.asp?CID=654&DID=2564
• Woodrow Wilson International Center (United States): http://www.nanotechproject.org/ 
• Nanotechnology (European Commission): http://cordis.europa.eu/nanotechnology 
• European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC): http://www.cefic.be/Templates/shwStory.asp?NID=577&HID=577