Statistical framework for nanotechnology

The aim of this project area is to systematically develop indicators and statistics related to nanotechnology. The work covers definitions of nanotechnology; methodological discussions on indicators and their collection; development of model questions for future collection of statistics through company surveys, etc.; and discussions of nanotechnology metrics in the context of other emerging and converging technologies (e.g. biotechnology).

Activities in 2007-2008

A review of nanotechnology developments based on indicators and statistics was prepared in 2008. It incorporates information about the evolution of nanotechnology; highlights current definitions; assesses the significance of nanotechnology from expected socio-economic impacts as seen in market and job forecasts, company activity and emerging products; uses investment data to review the volume, nature and distribution of R&D activities; employs publication and patent data in tracing developments over time, across technologies and countries and patents to monitor developments across nanotechnology sub-areas and application fields; and assesses the position and specialization of countries. It also reports company survey findings indicating how companies are addressing nanotechnology and some of the challenges they are experiencing.

In parallel with this review, the WPN has made progress on developing a statistical framework for nanotechnology. The aim is to outline, develop and contribute to the provision of internationally comparable indicators and statistics on the nature and development of nanotechnology in the broader context of emerging and enabling technologies. In co-ordination with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the OECD group of National Experts in Science and Technology Indicators (NESTI), there have been discussions of definitions and methodologies and comparisons with experiences related to statistics for other technologies. This work will be the main focus for 2009.

Activities in 2009

The definition of nanotechnology to be used by WPN in its statistical work is to be agreed in 2009 in addition to a list-based definition for use in surveys and similar activities.

Model questions relating to nanotechnology and suitable for statistical work will be developed.

Preliminary steps will be taken towards a survey of nanotechnology companies, through the development of the model questions and methodological discussions on identifying relevant companies. Ideally a pilot survey would be completed in 2009.

The statistical framework will be published in early 2010.

This work links to the project area "monitoring and benchmarking nanotechnology developments".