NC State NanoDays

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A NCSU tour guide explains nanotechnology to a K-12 student group

NanoDays is an annual state-wide event coordinated by Dr. Gail Jones in NC State's Math, Science, and Technology Education Department. The event combines fun hands-on activities with presentations on current nanotechnology research. A range of exciting programs demonstrate the special and unexpected properties found at the nanoscale, examine tools used by nanoscientists, showcase nano materials with spectacular promise, and consider implications of new technologies for society. NanoDays began at NC State and is now a nationwide festival of educational programs.

NanoDays 2013

NanoDays 2013 was held on Friday, April 26, 2013 from 2-5 p.m. on NC State's Centennial Campus in Engineering Building 3. Science Olympiad participants, teachers, and parents from thoughout the state took part in the day's activities. Educators from UNC-Chapel Hill, Marbles Childrens Museum, the NC Museum of Life and Sciences, and the School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering at UNC-Greensboro highlighted new developments in science and technology.

Dr. Gail Jones demonstrates a material built using nanotechnology techniques. NanoDays participants learn about nano-textiles. NanoDays participant enjoys nano ice cream. NanoDays began at NC State and is now a nationwide festival of educational programs about nanoscale science and engineering and its potential impact on the future. NanoDays engages people of all ages in learning about this emerging field of science, which holds the promise of developing revolutionary materials and technologies. The NC State Nanotechnology Initiative is a sponsor of this event.

NanoDays events combine fun hands-on activities with presentations on current research. A range of exciting demonstrate the special and unexpected properties found at the nanoscale, examine tools used by nanoscientists, showcase nano materials with spectacular promise, and consider implications of new technologies for society.

Visitors made some of their own nanomaterials, investigated super thin materials used in solar cell technology, and changed the color of a butterfly’s wings! Other activities included experimenting with paint that never gets dirty, learning about nanoparticles that can kill cancer, and participating in special laboratory tours. For more information on this year's event, email Gina Childers.

Slideshows of NanoDays 2013 (Windows Media Files)

NanoDays 2013: Longer Version/All Photos
NanoDays 2013: Shorter Version

NanoDays 2012

NanoDays 2012 was held on April 27 on NC State's Centennial Campus. By special arrangement, NanoDays was offered for Science Olympiad participants, teachers, and parents. Educators from UNC-Chapel Hill, Marbles Childrens Museum, the NC Museum of Life and Sciences, and the School of Nanoscience & Nanoengineering at UNC-Greensboro were present to engage participants with new developments in science and technology. Visitors made their own nanomaterials, investigated super-thin materials used in solar cell technology, and changed the color of a butterfly’s wings. NanoDays 2012 also featured new demonstrations, tours, and talks, and instructional materials. Special lab tours were available for students to talk to researchers about future careers in this exciting area.