One-Day Course Introduces Nanotechnology Tools and Techniques

Gain "nanotechnology literacy" and understand uses for nanoparticles
May 14, 2015 10:15 AM ET

Have you been fascinated by reports of the transformative potential of nanotechnology but a little unsure of what it all means?

A new mini-course offered by the Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology provides “nanotechnology literacy” and introduces participants to some of the tools and techniques of the science.

Taught by Dr. Robin Tanke, professor of chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, this one-day course discusses the use of nanomaterials in consumer products, medical diagnostics and sensors, as well as environmental considerations of nanoparticles. Tanke has research experience in silver and germanium nanoparticles since 2000 and course instruction experience in nanotechnology since 2003.

To some degree, we have been controlling nanoparticle formation for centuries. The colors in centuries-old stained glass, for example, were obtained with different sized particles of gold and silver.  However, only in the last few decades have we had the analytical tools to image nanoparticles and the synthetic methodology to, occasionally, control the shape and size of particles.

Nanoparticles are on the scale of about 1 to 100 billionths of a meter. The properties of nanoparticles are unlike bulk materials because the properties of nanoparticles are size and shape dependent. Therefore scientists have the potential to create materials with specific properties. 

The course fee is $450 and include breakfast, lunch, course supplies and materials. The course is offered Thursday, June 11, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at UW-Stevens Point.

Register online here.

Learn more about WIST and see other short-course opportunities on the institute website.

About the Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology
The Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology (WIST) provides research, laboratory services, and education to business and industry. It is an entrepreneurial organization, working to bring new ideas and innovation from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point to the private sector. Research includes biofuels, renewably sourced chemicals from biomass, and value-added uses of agricultural and forestry residuals from processing. Laboratory services include paper testing, paper grade development, compostability, and other analyses such as ion chromatography for carbohydrates, organic acids and alcohols. WIST educational offerings include papermaking courses and topics in sustainability.