Methodology

Definition

For the purposes of this report, nanotechnology is defined as "the study of phenomena and fine-tuning of materials at atomic, molecular and macromolecular scales, where properties differ significantly from those at a larger scale."[1]

The specific focus of this report is on applications of nanotechnology in security, including identification, detection and protection. This report does not cover uses of nanotechnology in weaponry or other offensive military applications.

Methodology for Preparing the Report

The development of this report has been a three stage process. Desk research using publicly available sources of information was used to produce a first version of this report. Input and feedback is then sought from experts, via questionnaires, interviews and discussions, and from the ObservatoryNano symposium which takes place in March 2009. A final report is then produced, which synthesises the desk research and external expert input.

Methodology for Quantitative Assessment

Quantitative assessments of market size, growth rates, and the current market shares of nanotechnology enabled products are developed using external data sources such as market research providers, industry groups, and individual experts. Estimates and market size projections that are made by the authors of this report are clearly marked as such.

All forward looking estimates are necessarily a projection, and are therefore subject to error within the market models themselves, as well as to unforeseen external events. In particular, the current economic crisis has forced countries and companies to significantly adjust their growth forecasts - in most cases, this will not have been taken into account in projections which date from before 2008.

[1] Introduction to Nanotechnology, http://ec.europa.eu/nanotechnology/index_en.html