Radiation-engineered nanomaterials. The role of the IAEA in coordinating research

Complete text of publication follows. Radiation technologies, already established in materials processing, have properties uniquely for the creation of new functional materials on the nanoscale, both in 'top-to-bottom' and 'bottom-up' approaches. For example, controlled radiation degradation may be used for fabrication of nanoporous and nanostructured surfaces and membranes; while radiation polymerization, crosslinking and grafting could produce functional polymeric, metallic and semiconductor nanoparticles, functional nanostructured surfaces and nanocomposites. Applications for such nanostructured materials are manifold, from 3D structures, templates for nanowire fabrication, supports for purification, and proton exchange membranes, to imaging, diagnostics, targeted drug and gene delivery, wound healing and cell sheet engineering. Considering the significant potential as well as the already demonstrated successful applications in using radiation methods for synthesis and characterization of nano-sized materials as well as the interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology, and in order to facilitate the coordination between radiation-based research groups and nanotechnology centres, the IAEA has organized a number of consultancy meetings, training courses and workshops. Additionally, a coordinated research project entitled 'Nanoscale Radiation Engineering of Advanced Materials for Potential Biomedical applications' in progress, under which 17 IAEA Member States institutions work together to develop radiolytic methodologies for synthesis of nanoparticles and nanoporous membranes; polymeric, inorganic and hybrid nanocarriers for various healthcare applications. This presentation will describe the present activities of the IAEA and plans for future supports for fostering development and application of radiation-engineered functional nanomaterials.