Characterising Nanotechnology Research in China

Abstract

Nanotechnology drew considerable R&D and research policy attention during the last decade from both developed and emerging developing countries. Nanotechnology is an emerging field where scientists and engineers manipulate matter at the molecular level to create new materials with favourable physical and chemical properties; it is widely acknowledged as a revolutionary technology that will bring path-breaking benefits and profound transformation to human life. Among these developing countries, China has recently emerged as one of the leaders in nanotechnology research. What characterises China's nanotechnology research? Is it different than the nanotechnology research in developed countries? What are the main players and determining factors behind China's fast growth in nanotechnology research? These are the research questions that this article intends to answer.