Europe could miss out on the “nanotechnology wave” according to a report on research and innovation by the European Commission.
“Europe has missed the ICT wave and may miss the nanotechnology wave, in spite of a strong commitment from public authorities to finance and develop nanotech research in Europe,” according to the
Key figures 2007 on Science, Technology and Innovation report.
“Nanotechnology is a good example of Europe’s difficulty in translating science into innovative products and commercial activities,” it said.
America is leading the way in nanotechnology, according to the report, with more established firms, start-ups and patents registered than Europe.
The majority of European nanotech companies, mainly located in Germany and the UK, are also much smaller in terms of turnover.
If the current trend continues then China will catch up with the EU by 2009 in terms of R&D intensity.