[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 146 (Friday, October 17, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Pages S12832-S12833]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             NANOTECHNOLOGY

  Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, recently I hosted a luncheon of the 
American Chemical Society on nanotechnology. It was a pleasure to be in 
the company of so many brilliant minds, and those concerned with the 
technological and economic future of our Nation.
  Of all the areas of scientific innovation being developed today, none 
is more profound than nanotechnology. The ability to manipulate 
individual atoms is unprecedented in human history and could lead to 
the redesign of

[[Page S12833]]

most products we know of today. Some have even said it could lead to 
the ``Second Industrial Revolution.'' Its scope is nothing other than 
breathtaking.
  In the area of national security, nanotechnology has been identified 
as one of the most important strategic research areas. Revolutionary 
applications could include: very lightweight but extremely strong 
armor, vastly smaller and more powerful computers, microscopic sensor 
systems, and tiny unmanned vehicles. These could provide vastly 
increased capabilities for our armed forces. Conversely, to fall behind 
in these new areas will present us with a critical security risk.
  Unfortunately, the United States is no longer the only world leader 
in many areas of nanoscience, as many countries have recognized its 
importance and are greatly increasing their funding. With stakes this 
high, we must pay close attention to the choices we make.
  I understand the stakes and stand four-square behind public-private 
efforts to keep America in the lead in nanotechnology. Just as we led 
the industrial revolution, America will lead this new scientific 
revolution for the benefit of generations to come.

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