NanoTextNL volume 1 - October 2012

nanotextnl volume 1 - october 2012

nanonextnl magazine

Microscopes beyond the lab Sharing infrastructure Proud piezo professor and more

welcome

Join our adventure In this magazine, NanoNextNL gives an impression of its activities, partners, and way of working.

NanoNextNL is a consortium of over one hundred companies, universities, knowledge institutes and university medical centres, aimed at innovating with micro and nanotechnology. Micro and nanotechnology

Ambition in numbers Aim (2016)

are the manipulation, creation and understanding of new materials, fabrication techniques, processing and much more, all with one connecting theme: very small

Number of roadmaps composed for selected programs,

dimensions.

defined jointly by industrial and academic participants

NanoNextNL started in 2010, and issues this

Number of public awareness activities

3

99

magazine as its first public report.

To be able to monitor its performance, the consortium

Number of peer-reviewed papers and

has translated its ambitions into numbers. Some of

conference contributions

1200

them are listed on this page. In this magazine, we demonstrate some of the stories behind the numbers:

Number of new start-ups or spin-off companies

15

what the results are NanoNextNL is aiming for, and how we are going to achieve it.

Number of workshops / conferences with industrial and academic participation to share results

270

We hope you will enjoy reading about our patents, partners, projects, publications and above all

Number of patent filings

115

our people, all working in the exciting and utterly unpredictable field of

Number of joint workshops / conferences with

micro and nanotechnology.

researchers from RATA and other themes

15

Number of newly established collaborations between generic and application themes:

Colophon nanotextnl ­ Editor-in-chief Sonja­Knols,­Ingenieu∑e Editors Dave­Blank,­Jeroen­van­Houwelingen,­Albert­Polman,­Fred­van­Keulen Art direction Foton­visuele­communicatie,­Tjerk­de­Vries Print Foton­visuele­communicatie Cover images Micronit­Microfuildics,­Ivar­Pel,­Fjodor­Buis Distributor NanoNextNL­programme­office Technology­Foundation­STW P.O.­Box­3021,­3502­GA­Utrecht­ info@nanonextnl.nl +31­(0)30­6001­363­/­+31­(0)30­6001­322 www.nanonextnl.nl october­2012

2 nanotextnl October­2012

joint patent applications

10

joint publications

50

Number of trained highly qualified knowledge workers

300

contents

overview An island nation of bridges and boats

4

innovention “Making a flight simulator for the cell”

news

8 10

4

new­on­the­market Catching cancer with bait

12

4

synergy Putting their noses to the same grindstone

14

publication Splitting light for a higher yield

15

8

how­things­work Optic chip knows best

16

society Risk Analysis as interwoven theme

18

outreach Nanotechnology scary? Lowlanders don't think so!

20

odd­man­out FrieslandCampina, Vitens and Enza Zaden

21

collaboration Water seeking new technology

24

22

high­tech­SME Nanotechnology as an export product

24

both­sides Smart tips and microscopes for the real world

26

application Testing taste

28

30

proud­of Recognised talent

30

nanonextnl­at­a­glance

32

nanotextnl October­2012­­­3

overview

An island nation of

bridges and boats By­Mariette­Huisjes­­­/­­Photos­Bart­van­Overbeeke

Making greater progress by joining forces: nano researchers have been working on that for years. Now that the government has set a course promoting collaboration between science and industry, NanoNextNL is poised for a running start, say board chairman Dave Blank and sector figurehead Amandus Lundqvist.

L

ike salt in bread, micro and nanotechnology has penetrated branches of science and technology both many and diverse.

From medicine to water treatment, from computer technology

to spaceflight, from the food industry to construction: it’s almost impossible to find a field where nanotechnology is irrelevant. Ensuring that all those nanotechnologists communicate with one another and benefit from each other’s expertise seems an impossible task – yet that’s precisely what NanoNextNL intends to do. Dave Blank, a professor at the University of Twente and the chairman of the executive board at NanoNextNL, explains how he envisions doing that. Amandus Lundqvist – who, as the chairman of SURF, former CEO of IBM Netherlands, former chairman of the board of directors at the Eindhoven University of Technology, and figurehead for the Netherlands’ High Tech top sector, is an expert on the subject of consortia – provides commentary.

4 nanotextnl October­2012

nanotextnl October足2012 5

How did nanotechnology end up in the High Tech top sector?

It­attracts­adventurous­people­with­courage,

other­areas­still­need­to­map­out­the­trends.”

because­it’s­very­dynamic.”

DB:­“The­28­research­programmes­form­the core­of­NanoNextNL.­They’re­led­by

AL:­“The­striking­thing­about­nanotechnology

scientists,­who­maintain­contact­with­groups

themes­in­the­High­Tech­top­sector­–­such­as

Being present everywhere, in every research area and also in science, industry and the world of SMEs: that sounds like a significant organisational challenge.

solar­energy,­light,­health­care­and­semicon­-

DB:­“It­has­been­a­long,­tedious­process,­but

around­the­research­programmes.­Those­are

ductors­–­but­also­for­the­other­top­sectors,

fortunately­we­started­thinking­about­it­years

led­by­people­from­industry,­who­understand

such­as­Agri&Food,­Energy,­Life­Sciences­and

ago.­That­was­when­we­founded­NanoNed,

what’s­important­in­their­field.­They­make

Water.­But­its­centre­of­gravity­does­lie­in­the

the­predecessor­to­NanoNextNL.­We­were

sure­the­different­programmes­within­a

High­Tech­top­sector.”

adamant­that­we­weren’t­going­to­set­up

theme­are­aligned.­We,­as­the­board,­ensure

DB:­“It’s­good­that­we’re­anchored­in­a­single

some­huge­organisational­structure,­with­a

that­all­the­themes­come­together­into­a

is­that­on­one­hand,­it’s­an­independent­field, with­its­own­questions­and­techniques,­but­on the­other­hand­it­runs­right­through­everything.

Nanotechnology­isn’t­just­important­for­all­the

at­universities,­companies­and­research institutes­throughout­the­Netherlands.­They provide­the­scientific­connection.­Next,­ten overarching­themes­have­been­defined

top­sector.­That­gives­us­a­strong­identity­and

single­total­programme­for­Dutch

ensures­that­we­can­powerfully­attack

nanotechnology.”­

common­problems.­From­that­home­base, we’re­going­to­make­sure­that­people­in­other top­sectors­become­familiar­with­nanotechno­logy.­When­we­call­for­research­proposals,­we invite­everyone.­It’s­definitely­not­the­idea­that High­Tech­will­monopolise­the­field.”

“We wanted to be more of a platform where people from research and industry could meet each other”

Does nanotechnology differ from those other research areas?

An ingenious structure.

DB:­“Isn’t­it,­though?­By­putting­the programme­directors,­the­theme coordinators­and­the­board­in­contact­with each­other,­NanoNextNL­has­woven­together everyone­in­the­Netherlands­who’s­active­in nanotechnology­–­and­done­it­with­very­little overhead.”

AL:­“I­notice­that­nanotechnologists­really­let themselves­be­inspired­by­what’s­happening­in

management­team­and­our­own­office.­We

science;­that­connection­is­very­strong.­That

wanted­to­be­more­of­a­platform­where

makes­the­field­challenging,­and­you­need­that

people­from­research­and­industry­could

Is nanotechnology going to give the Dutch economy the boost for growth which we so badly need?

to­progress­in­leaps­and­bounds.­In­ICT,

meet­each­other.”­

DB:­“Absolutely.­Our­intention­is­to­ramp­up

another­High­Tech­theme,­we­still­need­to­fight

AL:­”Yes,­it’s­definitely­given­you­a­leg­up­that

prosperity­not­only­in­the­Netherlands,­but

that­battle.”

you­had­already­set­up­a­programme.­Now

also­in­the­rest­of­the­world,­and­in­so­doing,

DB:­“Nanotechnology­is­a­bit­of­a­brazen­field.

you’re­jumping­onto­a­speeding­train,­while

to­give­many­families­happier­lives.”

6 nanotextnl October­2012

Armandus Lundqvist (left) and Dave Blank (right) engaged in conversation.

NanoNextNL is a broad consortium of over a hundred companies and institutes which form an open, dynamic and sustainable ecosystem to stimulate Dutch research into micro and nanotechnology. The programme is a result of the Netherlands Nano Initiative, launched in 2008, and is a selective continuation of MicroNed and NanoNed, the former research programmes on micro and nanotechnology. In NanoNextNL €125 million from companies and knowledge institutes and a €125 million investment from the Dutch government are brought together. All the projects within NanoNextNL fall into one of 28 research programmes, which are in turn divided across 10 themes.

Nanotechnology is part of the Dutch Topsector High Tech Systems & Materials, and has an important connection within the topsectors Chemical, Energy, Water, Life sciences and Agri&Food.

More information: www.nanonextnl.nl

How does NanoNextNL address the risks and societal dilemmas associated with nanotechnology?

DB:­“In­every­research­programme­which­involves social­aspects,­we­reserve­15­percent­of­the budget­for­technology­assessment­and­risk analysis.­That’s­a­lot;­I­don’t­know­anywhere­else in­the­world­where­it’s­so­high.­We­will­work­with institutes­which­specialise­in­technology assessment,­of­which­we­fortunately­have­a­few very­good­ones­in­our­country.­The­RIVM­will­take the­initiative.­We­have­them­investigate­things­in independent­projects,­but­we­also­ensure­that technology­assessment­is­part­of­the­educational programme­for­young­researchers.­We­need researchers­in­this­programme­who­can­think outside­the­box.­Who­can­work­with­industry,­but

That sounds ambitious. What concrete results can we expect from nanotechnology?

innovations­come­from­smaller­companies:

are­also­open­to­questions­and­doubts­coming

university­spin-offs,­or­young­entrepreneurs

from­the­community.”

AL:­“Take­a­company­like­ASML,­a­manu­-

crucial­role­in­the­ecosystem.­That’s­why

What exactly are those questions?

facturer­of­machinery­for­the­semiconductor

we­deliberately­seek­them­out.”­

DB:­“In­technology­assessment,­you’re

industry.­Nanotechnology­is­crucial­there.­The

DB:­“In­NanoNextNL,­we­not­only­work

concerned­with­the­societal­effects­of­a

starting­out­with­a­good­idea.­They­play­a

technological­development.­Suppose,­for example,­that­you­can­detect­cancer­at­a­very

“We intend for NanoNextNL to generate 50 to 70 spin-offs in the next five years, founded by some of the 300 young researchers we’re training”

early­stage­using­a­new­technology.­So­early­that the­tumour­isn’t­large­enough­to­be­resected.

What­do­you­do?­Do­you­carry­out­useless operations,­do­you­let­people­walk­around knowing­they­have­cancer­for­two­years,­or­do you­keep­the­technology­off­the­market?”

tinier­the­lines­on­a­chip,­the­better­iPads­will

with­small­companies,­we­also­give­rise­to

And what about the risks?

soon­look.­In­the­race­against­foreign

new­companies.­We­intend­for

DB:­“Only­a­very­small­fraction­of­the­products

competitors,­every­thing­hinges­on

NanoNextNL­to­generate­50­to­70­spin-offs

which­are­developed­using­nanotechnology

nanotechnology.­Or­consider­the­agrofood

in­the­next­five­years,­founded­by­some­of

involve­risks.­Then­we’re­talking­about

industry.­With­nanotech­nology,­we­may­be

the­300­young­researchers­we’re­training.”

nanoparticles­which­enter­the­human­body­or­the environment,­and­we­don’t­yet­know­whether

able­to­develop­packaging­which­keeps

they­can­cause­damage­if­they­accumulate­there.

DB:­“Suppose­we­discover­that­graphene­is

Many of those doctoral students come from other countries. Is there a danger that knowledge will seep away?

the­material­you­need­to­develop­a­quantum

DB:­“Roughly­half­our­doctoral­students­do

cellular­level­whether­damage­has­occurred.”

computer.­That­means­not­only­an­enormous

indeed­come­from­other­countries.­That’s

business­boost­for­ASML,­but­also­that­we

the­reverse­of­a­brain­drain:­during­their

can­increase­our­computing­power­so

doctoral­research,­they’re­here­and­they

dramatically­that­problems­currently­beyond

contribute­to­the­Netherlands’­prominent

NanoNextNL seems to be in good shape.

What’s the most important challenge you’re facing now?

us­become­solvable.”

position­in­the­knowledge­economy.­After

DB:­“Preventing­our­strength­from­becoming­our

they­graduate,­many­young­researchers

weakness.­Nanotechnology­is­relevant­for­so

SMEs are well represented in NanoNextNL. Is there a philosophy behind that?

stay­here.­But­even­if­they­return­to,­say,

many­different­subjects­that­there­is­a­risk­we’ll

India­or­China,­the­relationship­remains.­For

drift­apart.­But­I­want­people­who­develop­a

example,­my­students­do­internships­in

membrane­to­purify­water­to­stay­in­contact­with

AL:­“It’s­true­for­the­entire­High­Tech­top

other­countries­with­people­who­were­once

people­who­can­use­the­same­membrane­in­an

sector.­Our­segment­is­so­dynamic,­you­need

my­doctoral­students.­Or­former­students

artificial­kidney.­It’s­not­so­bad­if­islands­arise,­as

to­have­a­versatility­you­can­hardly­expect

take­jobs­with­the­foreign­branch­of­a

long­as­there­are­also­bridges,­and­ferry

from­large­companies.­And­you­see­that­many

Dutch­company.”

connections.”­­

products­fresh­longer.­That­also­provides­an enormous­competitive­advantage.”

Paradoxically­enough,­we­also­need nanotechnology­in­order­to­investigate­at­the

nanotextnl October­2012 7

innovention

“Making a

flight simulator for the cell” How does a cell’s skeleton organise itself so neatly into a wheel with spokes? Biophysicist Marileen Dogterom created an ultra-simple cell and discovered how it works. Tissue culturists, microscope manufacturers and scientific colleagues are flocking to her. “Our publication in Cell was truly a breakthrough.”

By­David­Redeker­/­Image­AMOLF/Tremani

8 nanotextnl October­2012

The dream

“B

work.­You­can­compare­microfluidics­on­a

find­each­other,­but­there’s­still­a­lot­of­ground

iologists­already­had­an­idea

chip­with­an­inkjet­printer.­Only­instead­of

to­be­gained­in­the­contact­between

how­the­cytoskeleton

equally­sized­little­drops­of­ink,­we­want

researchers­and­industrial­partners.

organises­itself­so­precisely,

vesicles­with­a­lipid­bilayer­on­the­outside

NanoNextNL­brings­science­and­the­industrial

and­a­cytoskeleton­on­the­inside.”

community­together.­By­searching­for

but­we’ve­demonstrated­it.­We­built­the minimal­system­and­used­it­to­simulate

common­ground,­both­in­and­beyond­the

complex­processes­in­a­model.­Our

The partners

various­parts­of­NanoNextNL,­you­make

research­reveals­the­basic­mechanism.­A

“We­collaborate­with­several­research

progress.­That­delivers­added­value.­We

cell­can­probably­vary­on­this­theme.­My

groups.­First­of­all,­of­course,­the­groups

challenge­the­current­generation­of

dream­is­to­recreate­a­living­cell­in­the­lab.

here­at­AMOLF.­We­have­in-house­experts

microscopes­and­measurement­equipment.

But­I’ll­already­be­very­happy­once­we­can

who­can­measure­the­forces­that­cells­exert

Equipment­manufacturers­such­as­FEI,­Nikon

reproduce­a­number­of­important

on­their­environments.­And­we­have

and­NT-MDT­are­eager­to­work­with­us,­so

mechanisms.­What­we’ve­done­with­the

scientists­who­are­very­good­at­making

they­can­see­what­science’s­needs­are,­and

cytoskeleton­is­one­example­of­that.­We’ve

vesicles.­We’re­working­with­them­to­try­and

what­still­needs­improvement.”

reconstituted­the­cytoskeleton­in­a

create­standardised­vesicles.­We’re­also

microfabricated­chamber.­We­were­able­to

working­with­researchers­at­the­Max­Planck

The future

show­that­dynein­motor­proteins­ensure

Institute­for­the­Physics­of­Complex­Systems

“QTIS/e­is­participating­in­our­NanoNextNL

(MPI-PKS)­in­Dresden,­Germany.­They’re

programme.­That’s­a­spin-off­from­the

very­good­in­calculations­and­modelling.­The

Eindhoven­University­of­Technology.­They’re

article­in­Cell has­helped­us­make­new

trying­to­culture­tissue­for­hart­valves,­among

contacts­as­well.­Or,­actually,­I­should­say

other­things.­When­you­culture­tissue,­the­cells

the­work­described­in­the­Cell article,

in­that­tissue­often­deform.­That’s­caused­by

because­we­had­already­presented­our­work

the­molecular­motors­and­the­cytoskeleton.­In

at­conferences,­and­that’s­what­brought­in

a­culture,­they­don’t­get­the­signal­that­the­cell

that­the­cytoskeleton­is­stretched­into­a

the­new­contacts.­For­example,­thanks­to

has­reached­its­ideal­shape.­As­it­happens,

kind­of­wheel­with­spokes.­That­resulted­in

our­research­we­are­now­working­with­a­Max

we’re­investigating­precisely­those­molecular

a­good­publication­in­Cell.­Now­that­we

Planck­Institute­in­Dortmund,­Germany.­They

know­this,­we’re­better­able­to­explain­how

want­to­apply­the­same­principle­of­the

cell­division­works­and­how­cells­move.­For

simplest­possible­cell­in­order­to­decipher

the­research­published­in­Cell,­we­used­an

the­operation­of­the­kinetochore.

essentially­flat,­square­grid­15­by­15

Kinetochores­ensure­that­chromosomes

micrometres­in­size­–­a­two-dimensional

which­are­in­a­condensed­state­during­cell

system.­We’re­currently­trying­to­create­a

division­are­pulled­apart­so­the­DNA­can­be

spherical­cell,­because­that­more­closely

properly­divided­over­two­new­daughter

resembles­a­cell’s­natural­shape.­We­want

cells.­The­German­group­is­currently­hard­at

to­create­vesicles­enclosed­by­a­lipid

work­purifying­their­proteins,­and­once

motors­and­the­forces­the­cytoskeleton

bilayer.­And­inside­them,­of­course,­the

they’re­finished­with­that,­they’ll­come­to­us.

generates.­I­hope­we’ll­discover­new­insights

building­blocks­for­the­cytoskeleton­and

A­year­ago­we­didn’t­even­know­each­other.

in­the­next­few­years,­and­that­QTIS/e­will­be

the­motor­proteins.­We’re­making­good

That’s­how­quickly­things­can­go.”

able­to­improve­its­tissue­culturing­as­a­result.

The practical side

trying­to­create­an­artificial­cell.­But­their

“I’m­the­programme­director­for­the

approach­is­very­different.­They­insert­DNA

NanoNextNL­programme­‘Nanomolecular

into­an­artificial­environment­and­try­to­turn­it

machines­in­cellular­force-transduction’.­But

into­something­living.­Our­goal­is­to­recreate­a

I­think­‘director’­is­a­very­big­word.­I’d­rather

process­so­you­can­use­it­for­practice,­so­you

call­myself­‘coordinator’.­I­make­sure­the

can­understand­it­better.­I­sometimes­tell­my

research­groups­come­together­and­that

students­that­I­want­to­make­a­flight­simulator

people­talk­with­each­other­one-on-one.

for­the­cell.­Where­you­can­turn­the­knobs

“My dream is to recreate a living cell in the lab”

Other­scientists,­such­as­Craig­Venter,­are­also

progress,­but­the­vesicles­still­vary­widely in­size.­We’re­trying­to­fabricate­the vesicles­using­‘microfluidics­on­a chip’,­and­this­has recently­started­to

“I try to connect scientists and the industrial community”

Most­of­all,­I­try­to­connect­scientists­and­the

and,­in­so­doing,­decipher­the­principles

industrial­community.­Because­scientists­will

underlying­cellular­mechanisms.”­­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­9

news

events

The first year at a glance NanoNextNL kicked off in June 2011. These pages display a selection of events, awards and grants which coloured the first year of the consortium.

Secondary school kids provide solutions to industrial problems After­weeks­of­research,­a­hundred­and­thirty teams­of­junior­pupils­of­secondary­schools

And so it began

entered­the­the­grounds­of­the­University­of Twente­with­a­prototype­under­their­arms­on

On­9­June­2011­NanoNextNL­held­its­kick-off

Wednesday­23­May­2012.­The­teams­were

meeting­in­Utrecht.­At­the­meeting,­NanoNextNL

ready­to­battle­each­other­during­the­Eureka

celebrated­the­start­of­the­program,­the­unique

Day­2012.­The­Eureka­Day­is­the­climax­of

collaboration­between­industry­and­knowledge

the­Eureka­Cup,­a­national­design

institutes­and­the­opportunity­to­tackle­societal

competition­with­a­technologically­and

needs­with­microtechnology­and

scientific­character.­For­this­edition,­the

nanotechnology.­The­meeting­was­attended­by

teams­had­been­thinking­about­solutions­to

partners­and­stakeholders.­The­chair­of

issues­related­to­nanotechnology.­Issues

NanoNextNL,­Dave­Blank,­emphasised­the

which­professionals­from­Philips,­ASML,­Océ,

importance­of­the­programme­and­was­looking

SolMateS­and­MESA­+­had­been­pondering

forward­to­the­coming­years.

about­for­a­while.­At­the­end­of­the­day,­the team­with­the­best­solution­and­the­best process­of­coming­to­this­solution,­was

MicroNanoConference 2011

rewarded­with­a­prize.­In­addition,­there­was

The­seventh­edition­of­the­Netherlands

a­prize­to­be­won­for­teamwork.­NanoNextNL

MicroNanoConference­was­held­at­Tuesday­15­and

supported­this­event­financially,­to­make­high

Wednesday­16­November­2011­at­Hotel­and Congrescentrum­the­Reehorst­in­Ede.­Some­450 participants­from­industry,­academia­and governmental­organisations­attended­the­event.

The­Netherlands­MicroNanoConference­is­organised by­MinacNed­Association­for­Microsystems­and Nanotechnology­and­the­NanoNextNL­programme and­is­the­major­Dutch­conference­on­micro­and nanoscience­and­technology.­The­conference­offers representatives­from­academia,­industry­and government­the­opportunity­to­meet­and­discuss­the latest­developments­in­these­rapidly­evolving­fields.

In­2012,­the­conference­will­be­held­at­the­same venue,­at­10­and­11­December­2012.­For­more information,­see­www.micronanoconference.nl.

10 nanotextnl October­2012

school­pupils­aware­of­the­challenges­of nanotechnology.

awards & grants

Blank wins highest Dutch technological award Technology­Foundation­STW­has­awarded the­chair­of­NanoNextNL­Dave­Blank­the­title of­Simon­Stevin­Meester­2011.­On­6­October 2011,­Blank­and­co-winner­Oscar­Kuipers­each received­half­a­million­euros­to­be­spent­on

research­of­their­choice.­Blank­will­use­the­money­to explore­new­ideas­and­develop­technology­in­the area­of­nanosensors.­Blank­is­delighted­with­the prize:­“The­Simon­Stevin­Meester­prize­is one­of­the­best­awards­you­can­be given,­as­it's­a­performancerelated­prize."­

First ERC Proof of Concept grants Polman wins ENI Renewable Energy Prize 2012

NanoNextNL­researchers­Detlef­Lohse,­Raymond­Michel­Schiffelers­and­Albert­van­den Berg­are­among­the­first­European­researchers­who­were­granted­the­new­European Research­Council­(ERC)­Proof­of­Concept­grant.

These­'top­up'­grants,­worth­up­to­€150,000­each,­are­designed­to­help­in­the­valorisation of­ERC-funded­research.­In­total,­30­top­researchers,­already­holding­ERC­grants,­were given­this­additional­support­to­bridge­the­gap­between­their­research­and­the­earliest

The­prestigious­ENI­Renewable­and

stage­of­a­marketable­innovation.­The­funding­can­cover­activities­related­to­for­instance

Non-conventional­Energy­Prize­2012­has

intellectual­property­rights,­technical­validation,­market­research­or­investigation­of

been­awarded­jointly­to­AMOLF­director

commercial­and­business­opportunities.

and­NanoNextNL­board­member­Albert

Lohse­(NanoNextNL­programmes­3B­and­10B)­received­the­grant­for­his­research­on

Polman­and­Harry­Atwater­of­the

Needle-free­injection­with­supersonic­microjets.­Schiffelers­(NanoNextNL­programme­3D)

California­Institute­of­Technology­for­their

received­the­grant­for­his­concept­study­to­commercialise­a­micro­vesicle­drug­delivery

research­on­high-efficiency­solar­cells

system­and­Van­den­Berg­(programme­director­of­3B)­for­his­research­on­the­FICS­chip

based­on­nanophotonic­design.­The

(Fast­Impedance-based­Cell­Sensing).

Jury­recognized­their­Candidature­as ‘outstanding­and­fully­deserving­the

Needle-free injection with supersonic microjets

Prize’.

Images of a supersonic microjet generated in a 50 micron capillary tube. The capillary is visible on the right side; the jet tip is shown on the left. The jet travels from right to left with a speed of 490 metres per second. Time between images is 500 nanoseconds.

nanotextnl October­2012­­­11

new on the market

Catching cancer with bait One of NanoNextNL’s priorities is to ensure that knowledge finds its way into applications through spin-off companies, for example. BAIT Pharmaceuticals is just such a spin-off.

Or, as company founder Marc Robillard prefers to call it, a spin-out. The story of a start-up.

By­David­Redeker­­/­­Photos­Bram­Saeys­

12 nanotextnl October­2012

M

arc Robillard, the CEO of

liver.­Before­you­know­it,­you’ve­destroyed

BAIT Pharmaceuticals,

the­bone­marrow­or­the­liver.­Our­two-stage

explains what his company

rocket­provides­much­more­effective

does in one sentence: “We make

radiation.­Our­radioactive­molecule­binds­only

biomolecules to image cancer and to

to­the­flag­on­the­tumour­and­the­portion­that

irradiate it.” BAIT stands for

doesn’t­bind­is­rapidly­removed­to­the­urine.

Bioorthogonal Agents for Imaging and

That­process­goes­much­more­quickly­with

Therapy. The company uses its molecular

our­second­molecule,­because­it’s­so­small.

bait to capture tumours. BAIT is a

The­two-stage­rocket­is­so­effective­that­we

working title, a holdover from the time

can­administer­a­dosage­ten­times­higher

the company was still a Philips project.

than­with­current­methods­without­serious

It all began in 2004. Philips was

side­effects­or­radiation­build-up.­The

manufacturing imaging scanners and the

disadvantage,­of­course,­is­that­with­our

associated software, but not the contrast

method,­you­have­to­go­to­the­hospital­two­or

agents to acquire good images.

sometimes­even­three­times­for­an­injection.”

Competitors Siemens and GE were, so Philips built a lab to develop antibodies

Broad support

and synthetic molecules which help

Robillard­left­Philips­around­Christmas­2011.

make cancer visible. Because antibodies

“I­still­get­a­lot­of­support­from­Philips.

in

can be used not only to image cancer,

They’re­an­important­stakeholder.­I­was­able

organic

but also to irradiate it, Philips imme-

to­rent­my­own­office­back,­and­they­let­me

synthesis,­which

diately investigated potential therapeutic

use­the­labs.”­Another­source­of­support­is

designs­and­builds­a

applications. “And then you enter the

Robillard’s­father,­an­emeritus­professor­of

number­of­much-needed

pharmaceutical industry’s territory,” says

chemistry.­“He’s­retired,­but­he­works­with

molecules.”

Robillard, “which in the case of BAIT was

me­behind­the­scenes.­I­do­a­lot­of­talking

Brunsveld’s­nanoparticles­have­the­same

outside Philips’ core business. In the

with­him­about­the­company.­My­father­has

problem­Robillard’s­large­antibodies­have:

meantime, I’d become deeply involved

started­three­companies,­so­he­has­the

they­circulate­in­the­body­for­a­long­time,

with the subject, and I wanted to keep

experience.”

they­accumulate­in­the­liver­and­they­aren’t

pursuing it. So I decided to spin it out.”

And­then,­of­course,­there’s­NanoNextNL.

easy­to­image.­“The­biggest­difference

Robillard’s­company­is­participating­in

between­us­is­that­I­work­with­biomolecules

A two-stage rocket

programme­3C,­Molecular­Imaging.­“Thanks

and­try­to­alter­them,­while­the­nano­folks

BAIT­uses­an­ingenious­trick­to­irradiate

to­NanoNextNL,­I­have­a­whole­consortium­at

construct­a­molecule­from­scratch.”­

cancer­cells.­Robillard­compares­it­to­a

my­disposal.­And­I­don’t­even­have­to­pay

two-stage­rocket.­First,­you­inject­an

them.­That’s­what­makes­NanoNextNL­so

Towards take over

antibody.­That­antibody­searches­for­the

great­for­starters­like­me.­I’m­working­with­the

At­present,­Robillard­is­looking­for­a

tumour­and­plants­a­flag,­so­to­speak.

research­groups­led­by­Luc­Brunsveld­and

pharmaceutical­company­which­wants­to invest­in­research­on­his­therapy.­“We

After­a­few­days,­a­second,­smaller molecule­is­injected.­Within­thirty­minutes, it­finds­the­flag­marking­the­tumour.­You can­attach­a­radioisotope­which­shows­up well­in­the­scanner­to­the­second molecule.­That­allows­a­doctor­to­see­the tumour­very­clearly.­But­you­can­also­use­a therapeutic­radioisotope­instead­of­an imaging­isotope.­And­then­you’re­no­longer just­observing­the­tumour;­you’re irradiating­it.

Why­does­it­take­two­steps?­Can’t­it­be

“Thanks to NanoNextNL, I have a whole consortium at my disposal. And I don’t even have to pay them.

That’s what makes NanoNextNL so great for starters like me”

already­have­good­contacts­with­universities and­hospitals,”­says­Robillard.­“Now­I­want to­find­a­pharmaceutical­company­which­will first­invest­in­us,­then,­if­BAIT­is­successful, can­take­us­over.”­ BAIT­now­holds­eight­patents,­has­been conducting­preclinical­trials­for­several­years and­wants­to­carry­out­its­first­human­trials within­three­years.­What­are­Robillard’s hopes­for­the­future?­Where­does­he­expect to­be­in­five­years?­“I­hope­that­in­five­years,

done­in­one?­“Current­radiation­therapies do­indeed­work­in­a­single­step,”­Robillard

Klaas­Nicolaij­in­Eindhoven.­Brunsveld­knows

we’ve­matured­into­a­true­biotech­company.

says.­“But­the­radioactive­antibodies­which

everything­about­nanoparticles.­Nicolaij­is­a

From­a­one-man­beginning­to­an­established

don’t­bind­with­the­tumour­stay­in­the

master­at­imaging­techniques.­And­then

start-up.­And­that­NanoNextNL­helps­us­get

blood­for­a­long­time­and­end­up­in­the

there’s­SyMO-Chem,­a­company­specialised

there.”­­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­13

synergy

Putting their noses to the same grindstone

By­David­Redeker­­/­­Image­Holst­Centre­

One of NanoNextNL’s guiding

few­times­to­see­their­equipment­and­listen­to

the­polymers­you­print­onto­the­beams.­The

their­ideas.”

nose­itself­measures­3­by­4­millimetres,­as­tiny

principles is that scientists

SB:­“Yes,­and­now,­just­three­years­later,

as­the­letter­‘o’.­If­you­install­it­in­a­mobile

we’re­already­applying­for­a­patent­together.”

phone,­you’ve­got­a­computer­to­perform­the

should work together. Herre

calculations­right­there­with­you.”

van der Zant at Delft University

Can you two briefly explain what you’re trying to accomplish?

of Technology and Sywert H.

SB:­“We’re­building­an­electronic­nose.­We

But there are other electronic noses, aren’t there? What makes yours special?

fabricate­a­series­of­nanoscopic­silicon­nitride

SB:­“Our­nose­is­extremely­small­and­energy

Brongersma at the Holst

beams­which­are­fixed­at­both­ends,­and

efficient.­For­example,­it­doesn’t­use­laser­light

print­a­polymer­on­each­one.­The­beams­can

sources­as­other­MEMS­noses­do,­and­it

be­made­to­resonate­electrically­using­a

works­at­room­temperature­so­it­doesn’t­have

piezoelectric­material.­Each­polymer­adsorbs

to­be­heated.­In­addition,­the­development­of

volatile­molecules­from­the­air,­which­alters

the­micromechanical­system­in­the­clean­room

the­beam’s­resonant­frequency.­We­place

only­has­to­take­place­once­to­use­it­for­any

eight­to­ten­beams­next­to­one­another,­each

application.­The­choice­of­polymers­and­the

coated­with­a­different­polymer­which

way­they­are­applied­enables­different

adsorbs­the­molecules­in­a­different­ratio.

applications­and­can­be­done­inexpensively.”

Centre in Eindhoven are a perfect example. The two researchers are collaborating on an energy-efficient electronic nose.

Each­beam­reacts­to­its­environment­in­a slightly­different­way.­Using­a­complex

One researcher works in Delft, the other in Eindhoven. How did you find each other?

algoritm­for­the­changes­in­vibration,­we­can

Back to your collaboration. What makes you two such a good fit?

calculate­which­volatile­molecules­are­present

VDZ:­“Sywert­and­his­group­ask­the­right

in­the­air.­And­we­can­do­it­continuously.”

questions.­They­know­what­the­industry

SB:­“Bert­Koopmans­brought­us­together.­He

VDZ:­“And­all­that­on­a­single­chip.­You­don’t

wants.”

was­setting­up­a­nano­cluster­about­three

need­any­large­equipment.”

SB:­“Herre’s­group­is­very­good­at­studying and­understanding­the­characteristics­of­our

years­ago,­and­he­told­me­there­was­a­group in­Delft­investigating­MEMS,­microelectro­-

And what can we use this nose for?

micromechanical­systems.”

mechanical­systems.”

SB:­“Electronic­noses­are­suitable­for­all­kinds

VDZ:­“Our­partnership­is­truly­symbiotic.­We

VDZ:­“­­Koopmans­saw­that­we­had­roughly

of­applications.­Examples­include­measuring

both­have­the­feeling­we­need­each­other,­

the­same­research­interests.­So­we­invited

air­pollution,­detecting­lung­cancer­using

that­we’ll­accomplish­more­together.­That’s­

Brongersma­to­sit­on­a­doctoral­committee,

breath­gas­analysis,­or­identifying­wine­based

the­perfect­foundation­for­a­fruitful

and­after­that­we­visited­the­Holst­Centre­a

on­its­aroma.­For­our­nose­it­all­depends­on

collaboration.”­­

14 nanotextnl October­2012

publication

Solar panels make poor use of the sunlight they receive; a large percentage of the energy is instantly lost. Silicon nanocrystals could put a stop to that. Tom Gregorkiewicz made the pages of Nature Photonics with his research into how the crystals work.

By­Anouck­Vrouwe­­/­­Photo­Debbie­Mous

A

photovoltaic­cell­is­like­a

commonly­used­in­conventional­solar­cells.

Gregorkiewicz­expects­the­use­of­solar­cells­to

coffee­machine­that­requires

Thanks­to­quantum­effects,­an­energetic

increase­explosively­in­the­coming­years.­“Not

exact­change.­Whether­you

blue­photon­could­knock­loose­more­than

because­of­all­the­uproar­over­the­greenhouse

one­electron­in­silicon­nanocrystals.­

effect.­It’s­much­simpler­than­that.­With

toss­in­one­euro­or­two,­you­get­a­single

photovoltaics,­you­can­generate­energy­locally,

cup­of­coffee­and­no­money­back.­Or,­in the­case­of­the­solar­cell:­whether­you­hit­it

One becomes two

and­you­aren’t­dependent­for­fuel­on­those­few

with­an­ordinary­red­or­an­energetic­blue

“A­lot­of­research­has­been­done­into­this

countries­which­happen­to­have­oil.”­He­expects

photon,­at­most­one­electron­is­released.

effect,”­Gregorkiewicz­says.­“Some­of­it­is

that­the­silicon­nanocrystals­from­his­research

The­change­-­unused­energy­-­is­lost­to

ours.­But­the­process­is­so­fast­that­all­the

will­be­added­to­solar­cells­within­the­next­few

heat.­A­silicon­solar­cell­converts­at­best

evidence­previously­found­was­indirect.­Now

one-third­of­the­energy­in­sunlight­into

we’ve­demonstrated­that­a­single­incoming,

electricity.­

energetic­photon­can­indeed­knock­two electrons­loose.”­Gregorkiewicz­and­his­team

“A­solar­cell’s­yield­would­increase

were­able­to­do­this­using­a­femtosecond

dramatically­if­you­could­use­the­residual

laser,­which­was­quick­enough­to­capture

energy­from­energetic­particles­to­knock

the­moment­the­nanocrystals­released­two

loose­a­second,­and­maybe­even­a­third,

electrons.­Their­work­earned­them­a

electron,”­explains­Tom­Gregorkiewicz,

publication­in­Nature Photonics.

professor­of­Optoelectronic­Materials­at the­University­of­Amsterdam.­“In­theory,

“Our­research­is­fairly­fundamental,”

even­to­levels­above­fifty­percent.”

Gregorkiewicz­admits.­“But­I­always­keep­the

“Thanks to the NanoNextNL programme, I’ve come into contact with people who – unlike us – actually build solar cells”

potential­applications­in­mind.­Thanks­to­the

years,­perhaps­in­an­antireflective­top­coating.

Scientists­have­been­speculating­on­ways

NanoNextNL­programme,­I’ve­come­into

“We­aren’t­able­to­do­that­yet,­because­the

to­do­just­that­for­the­past­decade.

contact­with­people­who­–­unlike­us­–

nanocrystals­are­manufactured­at­high

Nanocrystals­made­of­silicon­seem­to­be

actually­build­solar­cells.­That­will­help­me

temperatures.­We’re­currently­trying­to­come­up

the­solution.­These­tiny­particles­have

when­I­have­to­decide­which­direction­the

with­other­methods­of­manufacture.­But­I­don’t

different­properties­than­the­bulk­silicon

research­should­take.”

expect­that­to­be­a­deal-breaker.”­­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­15

how things work

Text­and­illustrations:­Eric­Verdult

Real-time optical analysis of microreactor performance

Optic chip knows best

M

7

icroreactors­are­becoming­increasingly more­important­in­research­and production­in­the­fine­chemicals­and

pharmaceutical­industry.­Within­NanoNextNL,­ Lionix­BV­-­in­association­with­academic­and industrial­partners­-­is­engaged­in­developing­an optofluidic­chip­that­can­carry­out­a­real-time analysis­of­chemical­reactions­in­a­microreactor­on the­basis­of­light­absorption.­The­ultimate­goal­is­to

6

incorporate­the­optofluidic­chip­in­the­microreactor so­that­chemical­reactions­can­be­adjusted­real-time.

A Microreactor pump

The­microreactor­used­comprises­a­small­glass­plate into­which­microchannels­are­etched­(diameter:­

5

300­µm)­and­a­second­plate­that­covers­these­

3

1

channels.­Two­pumps­feed­a reactant­1 (or­reactants­2)­and­a

2

catalytic­agent­3 into­the­reactor.

Both­fluid­flows­are­blended­in­a static­mixer­4.­The­product­of the­reaction­5 leaves­the microreactor­through­an­outlet

2 cm

A

4

channel.

Labtrix unit 6 The­microreactor­is­secured­inside a­container.­An­electrical­Peltier­element

5 cm

1.4 mm height

located­below­the­container­ensures­that­the microreactor­remains­at­the­desired temperature­(range:­15­°C­to­190­°C).­A­special thermocontroller­7 accurately­regulates­the

Absorbtion spectrometry

temperature.

When­light­shines­through­a­material,­then­that material­absorbs­part­of­the­beam.­The­degree­of

D Benchmark reactio

absorption­depends­on­the­type­of­light­(wavelength)

Using­sulphuric­acid­as­the­catalyst,­Isonitrosoacetanilide­is­converted­into­Isatin

and­type­and­concentration­of­the­absorbent­material.

inside­the­microreactor­to­test­the­working­of­the­optofluidic­chip.­The­optimum

Given­that­every­material­has­its­own­absorption

temperature­for­this­reaction­is­105­°C.­By­gradually­increasing­the­temperature

spectrum,­an­unknown­material­(and­the

inside­the­microreactor­from­30­°C­to­105­°C,­the­Isatin­level­of­concentration­will

concentration­thereof)­can­be­identified­on­the­basis

become­considerably­higher.­The­laser­beam­15 combines­three­wavelengths­(blue

of­its­absorption­performance.­Measuring­the

488,­green­532­and­red­638­nm).­Isatin­(not­the­reactant­or­the­catalyst)­has­a­high

absorption­spectrum­and­the­associated­intensity­of

absorption­coefficient­at­488­nm­and­532­nm,­and­thus­the­concentration­of­Isatin

the­laser­beam­that­leaves­the­microchip­provides

can­be­monitored­perfectly­with­the­optofluidic­chip.

real-time­information­about­the­reaction­product.

16 nanotextnl October­2012

C Combined laser

B The­microchip­comprises­four­nitride

Xio­Photonics­and­Lionix­have­developed­an optical­chip­that­combines­three­(to­­­eight)

waveguides­8 surrounded­by­glass.­Given

laser­sources­of­varying­wave­lengths­(colours)

that­the­nitride­has­a­higher­refractive­index

into­a­single­beam­12.­Each­wavelength­is

than­the­surrounding­glass,­light­is­totally

absorbed­by­a­material­in­a­different­way.

reflected­at­the­interface­and­is­consequently

Using­a­combined­beam­provides­all­this

trapped­inside­the­nitride­layer.­This­means­it

information­from­one­measurement­only.­A

is­possible­to­send­light­through­waveguides

spectrometer­13 measures­the­intensity­of

and­then­retrieve­it.­A­microfluid­channel­9 is

each­wavelength­in­the­outgoing­14 beam.

etched­into­the­glass­layer­above­the waveguides.­Four­areas­10 are­removed­from the­layer­separating­the­waveguide­and­the fluid­channel­in­order­to­allow­a­so-called evanescent­field­11 to­come­into­contact­with

12

the­fluid.­These­contact­areas,­each­with different­lengths,­work­as­a­sensor.­By

14

connecting­a­laser­beam­to­one­of­the­four

13

waveguides­a­measurement­is­taken­with­a specific­sensitivity.

9

Micro channel with fluid 400­µm­width 10-50­µm­height

10

B

12 14

8

Nitride trajectory waveguide 35­µm­width 0.07­µm­height

5

Evanescent wave 11 Evanescent­waves­are­formed­when­laser­light undergoes­total­internal­reflection.­The intensity­of­an­evanescent­wave­decays 27 mm 7­mm­width 1.5­mm­height

exponentially.­An­evanescent­field­is­formed because­electric­fields­cannot­be discontinuous­at­a­boundary.­The evanescent­wave­extends­outside

E Measurement results

the­nitride­layer­and­comes

The­benchmark­reaction­shows­that

into­contact­with­the­fluid­in the­sensor­area.­This­15

the­absorption-based­optofluidic chip­works­well.­The

is­where­the­laser­beam

measurement­results­show without­a­doubt­that­the optimum­formation­of­isatin

absorption­occurs.

9

takes­place­at­105­°C.­A­huge

10

advantage­here­was­that­the measurement­results­were known­after­only­one­day­of experimentation.­It­would take­a­laboratory­technician weeks­to­months­to­obtain­the same­measurement­results

15 Evanescent tail 100­-1000­nm­height

12

11 8

u ­ sing­traditional­methods. infographic­c­2012­www.kennisinbeeld.nl

nanotextnl October­2012­­­17

society

Risk Analysis as interwoven theme By­Nienke­Beintema­­/­­Photo­Shutterstock

Nanotechnology promises many marvels, but to realise them we must also consider the potential risks. If we don’t, some nano-innovations may be delayed on their way to market – or may not make it there at all. That makes risk analysis the leitmotiv running through every NanoNextNL theme.

D

o­an­Internet­search­on­the­term

conclusions­clearly.”­Van­de­Sandt­is­a

continue­doing­that.­But­while­we’re­doing­that,

nanoparticles:­it’ll­scare­you­to

research­manager­in­the­risk­analysis

we­must­also­always­investigate­the­risks.”­And

death.­“Nanoparticles­in­sunscreen

department­at­TNO­and­director­of

it’s­important­to­start­doing­that­at­the­drawing

cause­cancer.”­“Nanoparticles­in­antimicrobial

NanoNextNL’s­‘Human­Health­Risks’

table,­he­emphasises.­“At­that­point­you­can­still

socks­harm­the­aquatic­ecosystem.”­“Carbon

programme.­

adjust­the­process­in­several­ways.­You­can­select

nanotubes­are­more­dangerous­than

option­A­instead­of­option­B­or­C,­thereby

asbestos.”­While­scientists­wax­lyrical­on­the

The mission

significantly­increasing­your­product’s­safety­and

opportunities­nanotechnology­offers,­the

Van­de­Sandt’s­programme­is­part­of­the

chance­of­success.­That’s­ultimately­in­everyone’s

average­citizen­grows­increasingly­anxious,

theme­‘Risk­Analysis­and­Technology

best­interest.”

and­the­first­‘anti’­campaigns­have­already

Assessment’­(RATA),­one­of­the­ten

It’s­no­easy­task­to­implement­RATA.­Take

burst­forth.

NanoNextNL­themes.­RATA­isn’t­meant­to

sunscreen,­for­example.­How­do­you­determine

“There’s­only­one­way­to­combat­doom-and-

be­a­self-contained­theme,­Van­de­Sandt

whether­the­titanium­dioxide­particles­in­it­are­bad

gloom­stories­–­and,­of­course,­avoid

emphasises,­but­one­interwoven­through­all

for­our­health?­You­have­to­study­a­multitude­of

accidents,”­says­Han­van­de­Sandt,­“and

the­other­themes.­“Nanotechnology­is

factors:­the­toxicological­properties­of­the

that’s­to­thoroughly­investigate­the­risks

driven­by­the­search­for­new­functional

nanoparticles­being­used,­the­degree­to­which­the

beforehand­and­draw­your­conclusions­from

developments,”­he­says.­“That’s­very

user­is­actually­exposed­to­them,­and­the

the­data.­And­then­communicate­your

important,­and­we­should­definitely

relationship­between­those­two­factors­and

18 nanotextnl October­2012

human­health.­It­may­turn­out­that­the nanoparticles­in­sunscreen­are,­indeed, harmful­–­but­only­if­you­drink­litres­of­it.­ The­RATA­researchers­in­NanoNextNL investigate­how­best­to­design­processes­like this­for­different­applications.­“And­that’s pretty­tough,”­Van­de­Sandt­says.­“You­can’t always­discuss­the­content­in­detail­as­a­result of­patents­or­intellectual­property­issues.

“Thinking about potential risks isn't an immediate part of your plan, and it isn't where your expertise lies”

RATA­has­to­come­from­the­companies themselves,­Van­de­Sandt­believes.

Measures­to­enforce­it,­such­as­imposing penalties­on­companies­which­don’t­pay­it sufficient­attention,­are­not­sufficiently effective,­he­feels.­“Obviously,­companies­are legally­responsible­for­the­safety­of­their employees­and­products,­but­the­point within­NanoNextNL­is­to­stimulate­interest­in

Fortunately,­that’s­starting­to­change­now.­The

RATA.­That’s­why­we­organise­meetings

important­thing­is­that­the­developers­of­nano-

through­NanoNextNL;­we­visit­companies and­we­actively­invite­others­to­visit­us.­We

based­innovations­achieve­a­kind­of­RATA mindset­themselves.­That­they­truly­become

individual­molecules­on­their­own.”­The

also­want­to­hold­training­sessions­for

interested­in­thinking­about­risks­and­about

fibres­employ­a­cyclohexyl­structure,­she

doctoral­students­and­their­advisors.”

how­they­might­choose­alternative­routes.

explains.­Proving­that­structure­isn’t­toxic­at

Gelens­also­has­more­faith­in­a­positive

Largely­out­of­enlightened­self-interest:­their

the­molecular­level­appears­to­be­the

approach.­Her­company­doesn’t­yet­have

products’­successful­market­introduction.”

greatest­challenge­so­far.­“We’re­working­on

official­RATA­protocols­in­place;­Nano-FM

that­now.­In­any­case,­the­molecules­don’t

has­only­recently­launched­and­numbers­just

A given

seem­to­be­toxic­when­swallowed­or­when

six­employees­at­present.­“I­think­it’s

Edith­Gelens­knows­all­about­that.­She’s­the

they­get­under­the­skin.”

important­that­companies­use­standardised

R&D­manager­at­Nano­Fibre­Matrices­(Nano-

For­Gelens,­risk­analysis­is­a­given.­“Of

FM)­in­Groningen,­the­Netherlands.­The

course­you­want­to­study­a­product­down­to

company­uses­nanofibres­to­create­gel-like

the­smallest­detail­to­determine­whether­it’s

materials­within­which­mammalian­cells­can

completely­safe,”­she­asserts,­“especially­if­it

“The important thing is that the developers of nano-based innovations achieve a kind of RATA mindset themselves”

optimally­grow.­These­matrices­are­currently

may­later­be­used­in­the­human­body.”­To

being­used­primarily­for­scientific­research­into

learn­more­about­risk­analysis­methods,

mammalian­cells.­In­the­future,­however,­the

Gelens­attended­the­‘Safe­Design­of

company­plans­to­investigate­whether­they

Nanomaterials’­workshop­organised­by­TNO

can­also­be­used­to­culture­human­tissues,­for

and­NanoNextNL­in­early­May­2012.

use­in­regenerative­medicine,­for­example.­“At

“Participants­there­came­from­completely

the­nanoscale,­the­fibres­consist­of­building

different­corners,”­Gelens­remembers.­“TNO,

blocks­that­fit­precisely­together,”­Gelens

the­government,­companies,­research

explains.­“We’re­developing­a­technology

institutes.­We­discussed­different­strategies

RATA­protocols,”­she­says.­“Perhaps­the

through­which­the­building­blocks­assemble

to­identify­and­minimise­risks.­I­enjoyed

government­can­play­a­stimulating­role­there.

themselves­in­water­into­a­three-dimensional

looking­at­that­from­different­points­of­view.

For­example,­there’s­already­a­lot­of­data­on

structure,­like­a­plate­of­spaghetti.­Cells­can

Did­I­learn­anything­new?­Yes,­primarily­in

the­potential­toxicity­of­specific­substances,

easily­attach­themselves­to­the­assembled

terms­of­methodology,­on­how­to­estimate

but­the­data­isn’t­freely­available­because

fibres­and­they­thrive­in­that­environment.

risks.­But­also­new­facts­about

companies­want­to­protect­their­intellectual

Apparently­our­matrix­closely­resembles­the

nanoparticles.­How­quickly­they­can

property.­You’d­like­for­companies­to­be

natural­matrix­in­which­mammalian­cells

penetrate­a­cell,­for­example,­and­how

required­to­report­it­if­they­discover­that­a

grow.”

difficult­it­is­for­them­to­leave­it­again.”­

particular­substance­is­toxic.­Then­we­don’t all­have­to­reinvent­the­wheel.”

Nano-FM­is­working­with­new,­synthetic particles­that­have­new­properties.­“So­they

Reinventing the wheel

NanoNextNL­is­also­trying­to­further­the­legal

might­also­carry­new­risks,”­Gelens­says,­“and

Gelens­agrees­with­Van­de­Sandt­that­it’s

and­policy­aspects­of­RATA,­Van­de­Sandt

we­need­to­investigate­those.­If­we­don’t,­our

hard­for­companies­to­implement­RATA.

says.­“Not­only­government­policy,”­he

product­may­receive­negative­media

“Your­core­business­is­manufacturing­a

clarifies,­“but­also­corporate­policy.­Because

attention.”­Gelens­herself­is­convinced­the

product,”­she­says.­“Thinking­about

that’s­where­it­has­to­happen.”­In­that­regard,

nanoparticles­her­company­uses­are­not

potential­risks­isn’t­an­immediate­part­of

much­has­already­improved,­he­says.­“In

harmful­to­our­health.­“If­only­because­cells

your­plan,­and­it­isn’t­where­your­expertise

general­people­are­open­to­it.­Actual

feel­so­at­home­in­the­matrix,”­she­says.­“We

lies.­Yet­it’s­a­matter­of­life­and­death­–

execution­varies­in­practice,­of­course,­but

also­know­that­our­nanofibres­are­fully

literally,­for­the­people­you­serve,­but­also­for

people­definitely­want­to­do­it.­RATA­is­much

biodegradable,­and­they­break­down­into

your­company.”

more­than­just­an­idea­on­paper.”­­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­19

outreach

v.l.n.r. Roxanne van Giessen, Colette Bos en Yvonne Cuijpers

Nanotechnology scary?

Lowlanders don’t think so!

A

t­our­booth­on­the­island,­we

By­Roxanne­van­Giesen

asked­Lowlanders­to­share­their opinions­on­nanotechnology.

Using­statements­written­on­t-shirts,­we prompted­people­to­consciously­consider nanotechnology­before­we­sent­them­to check­out­other­parts­of­the­Nanoplaza.­ For­example,­we­wanted­to­know­whether Lowlands­attendees­have­even­heard­of nanotech­to­begin­with,­and­whether­they think­it’s­scary.­But­we­also­wanted­to­find­out whether­Lowlanders­know­how­a­lab­on­a chip­works­and­think­nanotech­is­‘green’.

Visitors­could­drop­candy­wrappers­into­tubes

The yearly three-day pop festival Lowlands for the third time contained a floating sustainability platform, Llowlab. As always, science and innovation were front and center. During the festival, Llowlab welcomed some 20,000 visitors. This year, visitors were treated to nanotech jewellery from the University of Groningen, shmeat from the University of Maastricht, and a sustainable hot tub from the Delft University of Technology.

NanoNextNL was there, too!

marked­‘agree’­and­‘disagree’.­Lowlands visitors­snapped­up­the­tasty­lozenges­like­hot

‘green’­and­85.7­percent­felt­it’s­good­for­us.

makes­possible,­and­they’re­waiting­with

cakes.­

Though­many­visitors­believed­the­technology

bated­breath­to­see­what­the­future­will­bring.

itself­is­not­yet­very­sustainable,­they­also

Wouldn’t­it­be­great­if­you­could­perform­all

Nano: what’s that?

thought­nanotech­makes­highly­sustainable

kinds­of­medical­tests­yourself­at­home?­A

Most­visitors­were­able­to­tell­us­that

things­possible,­such­as­more­efficient­solar

whopping­70.7­percent­of­visitors­said­they

nanotechnology­is­‘tiny­things’.­The­first­day,

cells­and­better­batteries,­and­that­it’s­useful

would­be­interested­in­using­a­lab­on­a­chip.

54.8­percent­of­Lowlanders­could­explain

for­helping­developing­countries­achieve

But,­as­a­few­critical­visitors­pointed­out,­“It’s

what­nanotech­is­to­us­–­at­least­a­little.

objectives­such­as­better­water­purification.­

probably­best­not­to­leave­everything­to­a

Strikingly,­after­the­day-two­Lowlands

chip”­and­“Do­we­really­want­to­be­able­to­test

University­lecture­by­Albert­van­den­Berg­on

Hospital on a chip

nanotechnology,­many­more­visitors­suddenly

Lab­on­a­chip:­another­one­of­those­strange

knew­what­nanotech­is:­on­the­second­and

terms.­Fortunately,­the­University­of­Twente

‘Na-no’ or ‘Na-yes’?

third­days,­a­respective­67.9­and­61.3­percent

gave­a­live­demonstration­of­this­lab­on­a­chip

It­looks­like­nanotechnology­is­ready­to­meet

of­visitors­could­define­it­for­us.­

–­because­most­people­had­never­heard­of

the­future!­Though­the­risks­of­nanotech­are

for­all­kinds­of­diseases­at­home?”

such­a­thing­(67.3­percent)­and­thought­it

not­yet­known,­the­technology­enables­a­slew

Nanotechnology scary?

meant­some­kind­of­implant,­with­all­kinds­of

of­new­applications.­Lowlanders­recognised

Most­visitors­(82.1­percent)­didn’t­think

frightening­implications.­A­short­while­later,

this,­and­they’re­very­positive­about­nanotech

nanotech­is­scary.­Common­responses­were

visitors­biked­up­a­sweat­and­saw­how­fluids

and­its­potential­applications.­Lowlands

“Nanotechnology­scary?­What­do­you­mean?”

in­the­highly­magnified­lab­on­a­chip­spread­to

attendees­are­also­very­forward-thinking,­and

and­“Nanotechnology­is­progress,­isn’t­it?

one­side.­That­cleared­everything­up.­All­in­all,

they­view­nanotechnology­as­the­prime

Why­would­we­be­scared­of­that?”­In­addition,

Lowlands­attendees­were­delighted­(after­the

example­of­techno­logical­progress.­Make­that

65.2­percent­of­visitors­viewed­nanotech­as

demo)­with­the­opportunities­such­a­chip

a­big­na-yes!­­

20 nanotextnl October­2012

odd man out Nanotechnology - that’s all about materials, electronics, physics and chemistry, isn’t it? So why are a dairy giant, a water supply company and a seed breeder partners in the NanoNextNL consortium?

Dairy Ger Willems, director of Scientific Affairs and Intellectual Property at FrieslandCampina: “The­combination­of­dairy­with­nanotech doesn’t­seem­obvious?­That­depends­on

Water supply

Seed Jan-Willem de Kraker, biochemical researcher at Enza Zaden:

FrieslandCampina,­we’re­interested­in­very

Ron Jong, Process Technology specialist at water supply company Vitens:

different­things­than­the­high-tech­materials

“Our­goal­is­to­produce­quality­drinking

important­factor­in­that­is­the­tomato’s­taste.

and­electronics­guys.­Every­organic­system,

water­which­meets­every­requirement.­An

We­have­a­hundred­tomato­varieties­under

including­man,­is­filled­with­tiny­particles:

important­part­of­that­is­that­we­want­to

development,­and­it­would­be­difficult­to

molecules­and­larger­aggregates.­It’s­largely

know­exactly­what’s­in­our­water­-­down­to

have­them­all­test-tasted­by­people.­That’s

these­tiny­particles­which­determine­the

the­nanoparticles.­Nanoparticles­in­all­kinds

why­it­would­be­ideal­if­we­had­a­device

properties­of­foodstuffs.­Miniature­globules

of­consumer­products­and­other­appli­-

which­could­do­it.­For­example,­you­could

of­fat­and­casein­determine­the­structure

cations­can­end­up­in­the­environment.­We

put­the­proteins­which­form­the­taste

and­behaviour­of­dairy­products,­for

anticipate­that­our­customers­will­be­asking

receptors­on­our­tongues­onto­a­chip.­That’s

example.­If­you­want­to­improve­those

us­about­that­in­the­near­future,­but­we

the­nano­aspect­of­this­story.­If­one­of­these

properties,­then­you’re­doing­‘nano’.­And

don’t­yet­have­a­good­answer­for­them.­Our

receptors­is­triggered­by­a­certain­flavour,­it

that­makes­nanotechnology­as­old­as

analytical­methods­aren’t­yet­sufficiently

sends­a­signal­to­the­measuring­device.­Of

mankind.­Through­NanoNextNL­we­invest­in

developed.­That’s­why,­through

course,­taste­comprises­a­huge­number­of

research­into­these­product­properties,­at

NanoNextNL,­we­and­a­variety­of­partners

different­factors,­but­this­is­a­way­you­can­at

Wageningen­University­and­Research­Centre

are­investing­in­the­development­of­better

any­rate­test­samples­for­properties­we

and­at­NIZO­food­research,­to­name­two

analytical­techniques.­We­ultimately­hope­to

know­contribute­to­a­pleasant­taste.­There­is

examples.­This­research­complements­the

be­able­to­analyse­groundwater­and­drinking

no­such­device­at­present,­but­researchers

in-house­work­we­do.­We­hope­to­acquire

water­for­the­presence­of­nano­particles.­In

at­Plant­Research­International­in

insight­which­we­can­use­to­improve­the

addition,­we’re­taking­advantage­of­new

Wageningen,­the­Netherlands­have­made

properties­of­our­products.­Communication

developments­in­the­field­of­water

significant­progress­toward­one.­Through

is­very­important.­If­we­aren’t­careful­with

purification,­such­as­removing­nitrates­using

NanoNextNL,­we’re­participating­in­their

our­message,­the­public­will­quickly­think,

palladium-copper­nanoparticles.­That’s

process:­we­deliver­the­plant­material­and

‘No­nano­in­my­food!’­That’s­another­reason

another­link­with­‘nano’.­But­the­main

brainstorm­with­them­on­the­research

we’re­involved­in­NanoNextNL:­to­participate

question­remains,­how­can­you­detect­

direction­and­outcomes.”­

in­that­discussion,­and­to­make­it­clear­that

those­particles­in­drinking­water?”

how­you­define­nanotechnology.­At

“Our­company­focuses­on­breeding vegetable­varieties,­including­tomatoes.­An

food­has­been­‘nano’­since­time immemorial.”­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­21

collaboration

Producing clean water using less energy and fewer chemicals: nanotechnology should make it possible. Water experts and nanotechnologists are working together to develop new water separation technology. “The flight path is different, but we’re interested in the same topics.”

By­Anouck­Vrouwe­­/­­Photo­Ivar­Pel

B

ert­Hamelers­at­Wetsus­can­name

-­filled­primarily­with­questions.­“How­do

is­used­to­large­volumes,­cubic­meters­–

several­things­which­are­on­his

you­remove­nanosilver­from­wastewater?

hundreds­of­them­–­while­the­other­works­at­the

wish­list.­“A­filter­for­ammonia.­It

And­medicine­residues?­Could­you­use­the

nanoscale.­Yet­Hamelers­and­Lammertink­have

takes­a­lot­of­energy­to­produce­ammonia,­but

separation­mechanisms­cell­membranes

found­each­other­in­the­NanoNextNL­programme

we­throw­away­the­ammonia­in­wastewater.

use?”­His­research­group,­Soft­Matter,

‘Nanotechnology­in­Water­Applications’.­Each

That’s­a­shame.­A­good­method­for­extracting

Fluidics­and­Interfaces,­is­studying­the­ways

man­brings­his­own­knowledge­and­expertise­to

lithium­from­seawater.­Reliable­sensors­to

nanotechnology­can­be­used­to­separate

the­table.­They­invite­each­other­to­conferences

detect­pathogenic­bacteria­in­drinking­water.”­

substances.­For­example,­Lammertink­is

and­workshops­and­make­use­of­each­other’s

investigating­catalytic­water­purification,­in

facilities.­“At­Wetsus,­they­know­everything­about

We’re­consuming­larger­and­larger­amounts­of

which­water­is­directed­along­a­surface

the­process­side­of­water­purification,”­says

water:­not­only­drinking­water,­but­above­all

where­nanoparticles­break­down­the

Lammertink.­“You­can­take­measurements­under

water­for­industry,­agriculture­and­energy

contaminants.­“We’re­studying­what

processing­conditions­in­their­lab.”­Hamelers

production.­It’s­taking­more­and­more

happens­on­that­surface,­which­substances

adds:­“Our­doctoral­students­make­use­of­the

technology­to­purify­all­that­water.­In­the

work­best.”­Applications­loom­on­the

university’s­clean­rooms­and­measurement

laboratory­at­the­Wetsus­centre­for

horizon:­“The­greater­objective­is­to­get

equipment.­We­come­in­with­scientific­questions

sustainable­water­technology­in­Leeuwarden,

around­the­use­of­chemicals­in­water

from­the­water­industry,­they­from

the­Netherlands,­water­companies­and

purification­–­the­fewer­substances­you

nanotechnology.­The­flight­path­is­different,­but

research­institutes­are­joining­forces­to

need­to­purify­the­water,­the­better.”

we’re­interested­in­the­same­topics.”­Such­as

improve­water­purification­methods.­Hamelers

biomimetic­membranes,­a­subject­which­makes

Complementary approaches

currently­use­fairly­simple­separation­methods.

A­two-hour­drive­away,­at­the­University­of

One­man’s­expertise­is­primarily­in­the­water

We­have­filters­which­allow­water­to­pass­through,

Twente,­Rob­Lammertink­has­a­list­of­his­own

industry,­the­other’s­in­nanotechnology.­One

but­not­salts.­And­filters­which­let­water­and­salts

is­the­programme’s­director.­

22 nanotextnl October­2012

both­men’s­hearts­beat­faster.­“To­be­frank,­we

Bert Hamelers (Wetsus, left) and Rob Lammertink (University of Twente, right) work together on new water separation technologies. through,­but­stop­microorganisms.­But­what

the­question­is­always­whether­it’s­applicable

water,­but­it­must­not­be­present­in­the­water

we’re­not­very­good­at­yet­is­extracting­one

in­the­real­world.­Will­your­nanomaterial­stop

used­to­extract­oil­because­it­can­clog­the­oil

specific­substance­from­water,”­Hamelers

working­after­a­couple­of­weeks,­will­it­clog

wells.­A­sensor­which­could­detect­that

explains.­“Such­as­the­ammonia­I­mentioned

up,­will­algae­grow­on­it?­To­answer­those

bacterium­would­be­very­useful.­Or­a­sensor

earlier.”­Something­Mother­Nature­is­good­at,

questions,­you­have­to­test­it­under­working

which­responds­to­pathogenic­bacteria­in

Lammertink­adds,­and­he­wants­to­learn­her

conditions.­Wetsus­can­do­that.”

drinking­water.”­Lammertink­hopes­there­will

trick.­“Cell­membranes­have­passages­which are­only­open­to­a­single­substance.­The question­is­whether­you­can­translate­those components­to­a­synthetic­system.”­

Research direction

be­direct­applications­for­his­research­into

“Our contact ensures that I keep an eye on applicability”

The­contact­with­Wetsus­helps­Lammertink

catalytic­purification­by­then.­“Consider,­for example,­equipment­for­countries­where drinking­water­isn’t­always­reliable.­In­those places,­they­subject­the­water­to­a­last­cleanup­at­the­point­of­use,­in­the­people’s­homes.

It­would­be­nice­if­you­could­do­that­with

take­decisions­about­the­direction­for­his­own

catalytic­surfaces.­Then­you­don’t­have­to

research.­“It­ensures­that­I­keep­an­eye­on

Both­Hamelers­and­Lammertink­hope­that­a

applicability.­You­hear­what’s­important­in­the

number­of­their­ideas­will­have­evolved­into

field.­That­helps­you­determine­your­priorities.

new­applications­by­the­end­of­the

In­my­research,­I’m­always­looking­for­a­mix

NanoNextNL­programme.­Hamelers­expects

of­fundamental­questions­and­societal

them­primarily­in­the­field­of­sensors.­“It

relevance.”­Especially­for­technology­scale-

would­be­great­for­us­if­sensors­which

up,­knowledge­from­the­field­is­crucial.­“First

recognise­microorganisms­have­been

and­foremost,­a­good­idea­produces­beautiful

developed.­For­example,­there’s­a­bacterium

science,”­Lammertink­says.­“But­after­that,

which­is­no­problem­whatsoever­in­drinking

add­any­substances­to­the­water.”­­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­23

high tech SME

Nanotechnology as export product Nanotechnology is an important export product for the Netherlands, and government, entrepreneurs and society should work together on bringing the field to the next level. That way, nanotechnology can become our manufacturing industry for the future. Says Ronny van ‘t Oever, CTO of Micronit Microfuidics, one of the many SME partners in NanoNextNL. By­Sonja­Knols­­/­­Photo­Micronit­Microfuildics

M

icronit­Microfluidics­is­a­fast-

try­to­tackle­in­joint­project­proposals,­such­as

As­a­member­of­the­Supervisory­Board­of

growing­SME­specialised­in­the

the­one­in­the­NanoNextNL­programme.”

NanoNextNL­he­represents­the­small­and

production­and­development­of

Before­NanoNextNL­started,­Van­'t­Oevers’

medium-sized­enterprises­involved­in­the

glass-based­lab­on­a­chip­products­such­as

company­also­took­part­in­its­predecessors

programme.­As­chairman­of­the­board­of

microchips­for­protein­analysis,­DNA­research

MicroNed­and­NanoNed.­

MinacNed,­an­association­consisting­of

and­the­development­of­new­medicines.­In­the

research­institutes,­equipment­manufacturers,

13­years­since­its­foundation,­the­company

Nevertheless,­research­is­not­Micronit’s­core

suppliers­and­users­of­technological

has­grown­to­become­a­leading­supplier­of

business,­the­Managing­Director­stresses.

components,­he­knows­the­needs­of­this­group

microfluidic­and­lab­on­a­chip­devices­in­life

“We­make­our­money­by­mass­producing­lab

from­within.­“NanoNextNL­is­a­unique

sciences­and­chemistry.­The­company­is

on­a­chip­applications­for­others.­For

programme­in­the­sense­that­so­many­SMEs

involved­in­the­research­projects­of

example,­we­provide­a­company­like

are­involved.­But­they­don't­all­have­the­time­to

NanoNextNL­within­theme­10,­‘Sensors­and

Medimate­with­chips­which­they­use­for­their

actively­contribute­to­the­programme

actuators’.­With­the­participating­partners­it­is

point­of­care­lithium­measurements­for

management.­I­represent­them.­I­feel­it­my­duty

developing­scalable­functionalised

mentally­ill­patients.­Our­participation­in

to­make­sure­the­programme­is­executed­in­a

microstructured­reactors.­

research­projects­is­aimed­at­investigating

workable,­efficient­and­application-oriented

new­possibilities.­This­way­we­are­able­to

way,­and­that­the­overhead­will­be­kept­as­low

CTO­Ronny­Van­'t­Oever­­explains­why­his

provide­our­customers­with­the­latest

as­possible.”

company­is­involved­in­the­programme.

technological­solutions­for­the­integration­of

The­SMEs­involved­have­a­specific­profile,­he

“Micronit­maintains­close­contact­with­the

nano-based­sensor­techniques­into­complete

says:­“Nanotechnology­is­an­important­export

academic­world.­That’s­no­coincidence­since

devices.”­

product­for­the­Netherlands.­Therefore­SMEs

we­started­as­a­spin-out­from­the­MESA+

involved­in­this­type­of­work­are­internationally

institute­of­University­of­Twente,­and­we­still

International work field

oriented.­They­rely­for­a­majority­of­their­income

deliver­microfluidics­chips­to­research­groups.

Besides­taking­part­in­the­research

on­export­of­products­and­services.­These

Our­collaboration­with­academic­partners

programme,­Van­'t­Oever­is­also­included­in

companies­are­indeed­tomorrows'­Dutch

gives­rise­to­new­research­questions­which­we

the­organisational­structure­of­NanoNextNL.

manufacturing­industry.”

24 nanotextnl October­2012

Why­is­it­that­so­many­SMEs­want­to

etching­micro­channels­we­need­to­use­a

development­that­was­started­many­years­ago.

participate­in­this­programme?­“To­maintain

sophisticated­microscope­to­see­what­we­have

Now­it’s­time­to­harvest.­Sharing­such­large,

relations­with­research­institutes­and­other

made.­It­would­be­very­expensive­to­buy­one­of

specialised­and­expensive­state­of­the­art

relevant­companies.­And­of­course­to

the­microscopes­ourselves­for­the­few­hours

facilities­is­an­excellent­way­to­help­high-tech

stimulate­economic­action.­There­is­a­lack­of

we­need­it.­This­NanoLabNL­model­of­working

funding­to­bridge­the­gap­between­research

together­and­sharing­facilities­on­a­national

and­product­development.­NanoNextNL

level,­is­a­very­valuable­asset­for­high-tech

provides­this­financial­support­in­the

SMEs.­Our­customers­also­appreciate­it.­We

precompetitive­phase.­This­way,­the

often­work­with­them­on­classified­projects,

research­results­can­be­further­developed­to

and­since­we­can­use­the­equipment­ourselves

a­point­where­­they­can­attract­serious

instead­of­asking­the­lab­personnel­to­do­our

customers.­And­that’s­where­it­becomes

work­for­us,­we­don't­need­to­inform­people

interesting­for­us.”

from­outside­the­project.”

One­of­the­key­factors­to­the­international

The­lab­is­somewhat­like­a­beehive,­he­says.

success­of­Dutch­SMEs­is­the­national

Since­so­many­people­from­so­many­different

NanoLabNL­facility,­Van­'t­Oever­says.

industries­and­universities­use­the­facilities

SMEs­fill­the­gap­between­knowledge­and

“These­labs­have­very­expensive,­highly

there,­it’s­easy­to­meet­people­and­share

market.­Furthermore,­programmes­such­as

specialised­equipment­we­can­use­to­co-

knowledge­and­ideas.­“The­NanoLabNL­works

NanoNextNL­can­lead­to­new­start-ups­in­this

develop­new­products­together­with­our

as­a­magnet­for­people­and­knowledge.­It­is­an

field.­Since­these­high-tech­SMEs­immediately

clients.­We­pay­a­commercial­rate­for­the

excellent­base.­Compare­it­with­a­farmer­who

lead­to­export,­they­generate­an­excellent

use­of­the­facilities,­but­that­is­still­a­lot­less

owns­a­decent­piece­of­land.­Of­course­he­still

return­on­investment.­I­hope­in­the­coming

money­than­if­we­were­to­buy­all­of­this

has­to­sow­the­seeds­and­take­good­care­of

years­the­combination­of­infrastructure­and

equipment­ourselves.­Take­for­example­very

his­plants,­but­the­quality­of­his­crops­will­be

NanoNextNL­will­lead­to­many­more­innovative

high­resolution­microscopes.­When­we­are

good.­NanoLabNL­is­the­result­of­a

products.­Designed­and­made­in­Holland.”­­

“This NanoLabNL model of working together and sharing facilities on a national level, is a very valuable asset for hightech SMEs”

nanotextnl October­2012­­­25

both sides Daan Bijl:

By­Anouck­Vrouwe­­/­­Photos­Ivar­Pel

Smart tips “There’s a pickaxe in my office. I got it for a presentation to investors. The shape of the axe is a macroscale model for our product, the tip of an atomic force microscope (AFM).

But it’s also symbolic. They always say about the Gold Rush that it was mostly the sellers of picks and shovels who got rich. I’ve explained to investors that SmartTip makes the picks and shovels of the nanotech rush.”

“AFM­is­a­technology­in­which­you­scan­a

The­question­is­whether­it’s­feasible.­Every

surface­at­the­atomic­level­using­an­ultra-

biologist­wants­a­different­protein,­so­to

small­needle,­a­tip.­The­AFM­was­invented­in

make­it­commercially­viable,­you­need­to

the­1980s.­The­instrument­has­grown­up­over

have­a­lot­of­different­proteins­in­stock.

the­past­twenty-five­years,­but­the

Making­the­tips­won’t­be­easy,­but

measurement­needle­probe­has­barely

packaging­them­will­be­even­harder.­How­do

changed­in­that­time.­That­field­is­unfolding

you­keep­them­from­spoiling,­especially­if­the

now.­My­company,­SmartTip,­focuses­on­the

customer­won’t­be­using­them­right­away?”­

development­of­smart­probes.”­ “We’re­always­walking­the­edge­of­what’s “Take­the­AFM­tip­with­a­very­tiny­channel,

possible­-­for­example,­in­terms­of

the­FluidFM­probe.­That’s­a­kind­of­micro-

microprocessing.­But­our­users­are­also

pipette­with­an­opening­three­hundred

working­on­the­cutting­edge.­New­pickaxes

nanometres­in­diameter.­SmartTip­can­now

open­up­new­gold­mines,­both­

manufacture­several­of­them­simultaneously

scientifically­and­commercially.­

using­wafers.­You­can­do­all­kinds­of­things

That’s­the­beauty­of­

with­this­tip.­For­example,­you­can­use­it­like

this­work.”­

a­fountain­pen­to­deposit­nanoparticles.

Biologists­are­particularly­happy­with­it.­They can­use­it­to­penetrate­the­cell­wall,­which allows­them­to­inject­substances­into­the­cell with­no­appreciable­damage­to­the­wall.­Or they­can­deposit­controlled­viruses­onto­the

By touch

cell­wall­with­it.­But­the­pipette­can­also­be

It was a quick Nobel Prize: in 1986, six years

used­as­a­pick-and-placer­for­the­cell­itself­–

after they developed their Scanning

you­apply­suction­to­the­cell,­pick­it­up­and

Tunnelling Microscope (STM), IBMers Gerd

put­it­down­somewhere­else.”

Binning and Heinrich Rohrer won the granddaddy of all prizes for it. It was the first

“We­do­a­lot­of­research­into­functionalising

time surfaces could be imaged at the atomic

the­tip.­We­make­magnetic­probes,­and

level. An STM brings a needle – the probe – so

probes­with­an­active­chemical­layer.­We’re

close to the surface that electrons can tunnel

currently­investigating­whether­we­can­bind

from the surface to the probe’s tip. The

those­active­layers­to­the­tip­in­a­different

shorter the distance, the more electrons make

way,­chemically­speaking,­so­they­become

the jump: the number of tunnelling electrons

more­stable­and­more­robust.”

is thus a measure of the surface height. The STM now has several younger siblings, all of

26 nanotextnl October­2012

“The­next­step­is­to­add­biologically­active

which fall under the name scanning probe

layers.­People­often­ask­us­if­we­can­do­that

microscopy. The most famous of these is the

now.­We’re­currently­researching­it­with

atomic force microscope (AFM). An AFM

Wageningen­University.­Instead­of­a­chemical

actually touches the surface it scans and

layer,­you­attach­proteins­to­the­tip.­

measures the pressure exerted on the needle.

Joost Frenken:

Microscopes for the real world “We’ll soon be entering new territory. We’ve read all the textbooks, but we might as well throw them over our shoulders. We have to discover in the field which rules apply here.”

“Most­people­are­only­familiar­with­the

microscope,­which­we­sell­through­our­own

catalysts­in­their­cars,­but­industry­uses­them

company,­Leiden­Probe­Microscopy­(LPM).”

for­all­kinds­of­things.­These­are­substances that­help­chemical­reactions­get­going,

“Unfortunately,­the­Scanning­Tunnelling

without­being­consumed­themselves.­They’re

Microscope­has­a­downside:­it­only­works­if

often­made­of­expensive­metals­such­as­gold,

the­surface­you’re­studying­conducts

palladium­and­platinum.­Catalysts­are­big

electricity.­We­used­to­study­model­catalysts

business;­the­stakes­are­high.­Including­the

in­the­form­of­flat,­metal­surfaces;­those

environmental­stakes.­A­good­catalyst­helps

conduct­well.­But­in­practice,­catalysts­are

the­chemical­reaction­run­more­efficiently,­so

often­tiny­metal­particles.­These

that­less­energy­is­required­and­fewer­harmful

nanoparticles­are­scattered­across­a­carrier

by-products­are­generated.”­

material,­which­usually­doesn’t­conduct electricity.­That­means­the­STM­can­no

“Most­catalysts­work­at­temperatures­of­a­few

longer­form­an­image.­We­need­to­go­a­step

hundred­degrees­Celsius­and­pressures­of­a

further­to­be­able­to­study­that­land­of

few­atmospheres.­But­the­lack­of

bumps­and­bubbles.”­

microscopes­that­could­tolerate­these conditions­meant­that­scientists­always

“We’re­now­developing­a­microscope­that

carried­out­the­fundamental­research­at­room

combines­STM­with­a­microscope

temperature­and­low­pressure.­Industry­was

technology­which­doesn’t­require­a

interested,­but­they­couldn’t­do­much­with

conductive­surface:­atomic­force­microscopy

the­results­in­the­real­world­–­so­the

(AFM).­Non-contact­AFM,­to­be­precise.­You

development­of­new­catalysts­remained

bring­the­oscillating­needle­so­close­to­the

largely­trial­and­error.”

surface­that­the­attractive­force­between atoms­alters­the­oscillating­frequency.­That

“That’s­why­we­developed­a­scanning

change­is­what­you­measure.­We’re­currently

tunnelling­microscope­(STM)­in­our­lab­a­few

making­the­technology­suitable­for­field

years­ago­which­works­at­high­temperatures

conditions­in­industry.­A­difficult­task,­but­it’s

and­pressures.­The­tip­with­which­the

possible.­

microscope­scans­the­surface­is­contained­in

New­measurement­technology­leads­to­new

a­tiny­reactor­tank.­The­temperature­and

science.­Soon­we’ll­be­able­to­see­what

pressure­in­that­tank­can­go­way­up,­without

happens­at­the­surface­of­the­catalyst.­That’s

affecting­the­rest­of­the­device.­This­research

new­territory;­only­then­will­we­know­how­it

formed­the­basis­for­a­commercial

really­works.” nanotextnl October­2012­­­27

application

Testing taste By­David­Redeker­­/­­Photo­Shutterstock

Safe food for everyone. That’s the ultimate dream underlying the United Nations’ first millennium development goal.

The NanoNextNL theme ‘Food’ contributes to this objective. Maarten Jongsma heads the programme exploring new ways to ensure food quality and safety. “But our technology-in-the-making doesn’t have to be limited to food. The pharmaceutical industry can also use it to their advantage.”

28 nanotextnl October­2012

M

aarten­Jongsma­works­for­Plant

Chip to market

At­tomatoes­and­peppers,­for­example.­If­you

Research­International,­a

What­are­the­next­steps?­And­how­does

want­to­create­a­better-tasting­tomato,­you­have

research­institute­at­Wageningen

Jongsma’s­research­align­with­other­projects

to­hire­expensive­panels­of­professional­tasters.

at­NanoNextNL?­“We’re­currently­developing

That’s­much­less­expensive­with­our­chip,­plus

an­application,”­Jongsma­says.­“After­that,­we

you­can­much­more­precisely­determine­exactly

need­to­focus­on­making­it­commercially

which­substance­in­the­tomato­makes­it­taste

viable.­We­can’t­do­that­within­the­institute.­It

so­good.”­What­about­Nikon­–­what’s­their

Jongsma­explains.­“These

would­be­a­logical­step­to­start­a­spin-off,­a

interest­in­Jongsma’s­research?­“We­can­read

are­located­not­only­on

small­company­built­around­the­application

out­our­chips­using­Nikon’s­special

your­tongue­and­in

which­can­bring­the­chip­to­market.

microscopes,”­says­Jongsma.­“As­partners,­we

your­nose,­but­also­in

Pharmaceutical­companies­can­also­use­our

can­create­optimal­food­in­an­optimal

your­brain.­In­the­lab,

chip.­For­example,­they­could­test­urine,­blood

environment.­That’s­the­essence­of­nanotech.”

we­put­those

or­saliva­instead­of­food.­So­our­research­is­an

receptors­on­a­chip.

excellent­fit­with­the­NanoNextNL

Taste explained

We­can­place­1600

‘Nanomedicine’­cluster,­for­example.”

Back­to­the­endless­possibilities­Jongsma

receptors­in­a­square

Jongsma­is­the­programme­director­for

foresees­using­his­chip­outfitted­with­taste,

centimetre.­How­we

NanoNextNL’s­'Food­process­monitoring­and

olfactory­and­other­receptors.­What­does­the

do­that­and­what­the

product­quality­assessment'­programme.­“I’ve

future­look­like?­“What­I’d­love­to­see­is­that,­in

chip­does­with­them,­

just­had­a­meeting­with­my­programme­team.

five­years,­there’s­a­small­company­putting­our

University­and­Research­Centre­in­the Netherlands.­What’s­his specialty?­“People­smell­and taste­using­receptors,”

I­can’t­say­just­yet.

Things­are­really­starting­to­move.­When­we

chip­technology­on­the­market,”­Jongsma­says.

We’re­in­the­middle­of

were­ready­to­sign­the­contracts,­a­couple­of

“I­participated­in­an­entrepreneurs’­contest­in

a­patent­application,

companies­backed­out.­We’ve­now­replaced

the­life­sciences­some­time­ago,­and­that­was

you­see,­and­that

those,­and­the­new­companies­presented

very­inspiring.­We­definitely­need­to­keep pursuing­this­research.­I­call­it­‘decoding­taste’.

would­be­compromised

If­you­think­in­broader­terms,­you­could­also

if­I­go­into­too­much detail.­At­any­rate,­we­can expose­the­chip­to­foods and­then­read­it­out.­That shows­us­the­food’s­footprint,­so to­speak.­I’m­sorry­to­be­so­vague, I’d­love­to­tell­you­more,­but,­you know,­the­patent.”

“Pharmaceutical companies can also use our chip. For example, they could test urine, blood or saliva instead of food”

detect­spoilage­and­identify­contamination­risks.

And­all­of­it­faster­and­more­cheaply­than­by current­methods.­Online,­anywhere.­Right­now we­need­a­whole­lab­to­do­it,­but­in­the­future, it’ll­fit­onto­a­chip.”

Jongsma­could­talk­about­it­forever.­“We’re­on the­threshold­of­a­huge­nanorevolution.­I’m

What’s­the­point­of­a­chip­with­an

fascinated­by­tiny­creatures,­by­insects,­by

artificial­tongue,­nose­and­brain?­Is­that

mosquitoes,­for­example.­Amazing,­all­the things­such­a­tiny­little­pest­can­do.­It­can­do

something­we­really­need?­According­to Jongsma,­the­possibilities­are­nearly

themselves­at­the­meeting.­It’s­very­promising,

almost­as­much­as­an­elephant.­And­that’s

endless.­“The­food­industry­can­put­the­chip

and­it’s­on­its­way­now.”

actually­what­we’re­trying­to­do­with

to­very­good­use­–­for­example,­in­the

Companies­which­have­participated­in­the

nanotechnology:­turn­an­elephant­into­a

search­for­sugar­substitutes­or­to­see

research­programme­since­the­beginning

mosquito.­Nano­brings­the­lab­to­the­consumer,

whether­a­food­curbs­appetite.­The­chip­can

include­microscope­manufacturer­Nikon­and

the­farmer,­the­seed­breeder,­the­manufacturer.

help­us­predict­how­new­foods­will­taste,

seed­breeders­Enza­and­Syngenta.­Can­you

You­name­it.”­­

and­give­us­greater­insight­into­the

test­seeds­using­the­chip?­Jongsma­laughs.

composition­of­the­different­active

“No,­no,­no.­But­of­course­you­can­look­at­the

substances­in­existing­foods.”­

products­which­grow­from­those­seeds.­

nanotextnl October­2012­­­29

proud of Beatriz Noheda

30 nanotextnl October足2012

Recognised talent By­Anouck­Vrouwe­/­­Photo­Fjodor­Buis

“T

his­spring,­I­was­appointed­a­fellow

vibrations­from­cars­or­heavy­machinery­and

carefully­chosen­crystal­substrate.­The

by­the­American­Physical­Society

use­them­to­generate­electricity.­We’re­not

chemical­composition­becomes­less­important

(APS).­It’s­a­great­honour;­most

talking­giant­amounts­of­power­here,­but­our

in­this­way­and­that­can­lead­to­alternative

members­are­older­than­I­am,­or­have­done

electronic­devices­are­needing­less­and­less.­At

materials­without­toxic­elements.­Another

really­phenomenal­things.­More­than­for­the

the­moment­they­can­already­power­sensors,

general­approach­is,­indeed,­to­shrink­the

award­itself,­I­was­proud­to­learn­that­I­have

LED­lighting­and­other­small­devices,­as­well

piezoelectric­material.­Current­applications­use

been­­nominated­by­my­former­colleagues

as­charge­batteries.­

sizeable­chunks.­Within­the­NanoNextNL

from­Brookhaven­National­Lab,­in­America.

A­great­deal­must­happen­before­they­are­used

programme­we’re­looking­for­ways­to­develop

I’ve­been­gone­for­ten­years;­they­didn’t­have

more­broadly.­When­I­talk­to­people­in­the

much­smaller­piezoelectric­materials,­such­as

to­do­that.­It’s­a­sign­of­their­appreciation­for

energy­harvesting­industry,­they­all­tell­me­the

thin­layers­and­nanocrystals­with­dimension­of

my­research.­At­Brookhaven,­my­colleagues

material­itself­is­a­stumbling­block.­In­the­first

just­a­few­hundred­atoms.­If­you­could­make

and­I­investigated­why­PZT­(lead­zirconium

place,­the­power­has­to­increase,­from­micro-

the­material­so­small­and­light,­you­only­need

titanate)­is­so­much­better­than­other

to­milliwatts,­and­preferably­to­watts.­That’s

a­little­bit.­Then­even­if­we­continue­using­PZT,

materials.­PZT­is­the­piezoelectric­material

hard,­but­we’ll­see­how­far­we­can­get.­But

the­use­of­lead­is­surmountable.­

that’s­not­all.­The­P­in­PZT­stands­for

Cobblestones­that­provide­electricity­for­street

plumbum,­Latin­for­lead.­That­element­is

lights,­shoes­that­charge­mobile­phones…

responsible­for­the­structure,­which­makes­the

right­now­these­are­just­demonstration

material­so­useful.­But­lead­is­also­toxic.­There

projects.­But,­believe­me,­in­the­next­few­

are­some­really­nice­demonstration­projects,

years­you’ll­be­hearing­more­and­more

such­as­a­dance­floor­which­generates­energy,

about­harvesting­energy­

but­they­aren’t­taking­off­now,­because­of­the

with­piezoelectric­

lead.­

materials.”­­

everyone­has­worked­with­since­the­1970s, but­it’s­always­been­unclear­why­it­was­so good.­My­work­showed­that­the­answer is­in­its­atomic­structure.­That research­changed­the­field­and­the way­we­look­at­piezoelectricity.

Movement and energy I­study­piezoelectric­materials.

These­are­materials­which­can convert­mechanical­energy (pressure­or­deformation) into­electrical­energy,­and vice­versa.­You­could­use them­to­absorb

So­we’re­searching­for­alternatives,­with colleagues­at­the­University­of­Twente­and others.­In­an­article­in­Nature Materials last year,­we­showed­that­you­can­create piezoelectric­behaviour­by­forcing very­thin­(~100­atoms­thick) layers­of­material­to adapt­to­a

What do you hope to have achieved in five years?

“My chief goal is to help paving the way such that piezoelectric materials will soon be used everywhere. That may sound a little crazy, knowing they only generate about 0.5 milliwatts per cc right now, that is 100 times less than with solar cells. But piezoelectrics do not depend on the weather and can be hidden under the floor in highways, railways and bridges, so if they are light and non-toxic, we could pave very large surfaces with them. That’s where I want to go.

You can use piezoelectric materials to turn vibrations into electricity. You could harvest energy which is wasted now, such as vibrations from cars, trainsand machinery with very high efficiency (above 50%) compared to other ways of harvesting energy. First applications will be in the fields of movement and pressure sensors and in wireless and self-powering of lowconsumption electronics, such as LED lights. Five years is a short time, but if you look at where we were five years ago…” nanotextnl October­2012­­­31

NanoNextNL at a glance All NanoNextNL projects fall within one of 28 programmes, which in turn fall within one of 10 themes.

For up-to-date information, please visit our website www.nanonextnl.nl.

1. Risk analysis and Technology assessment (RATA)

6. Beyond Moore 6A

1A 1B 1C

Human health risks Dr. ir. J.J.M. van de Sandt (TNO) Environmental risks Dr. A. van Wezel (KWR) Technology Assessment Prof. dr. ir. H. van Lente (UU)

6B 6C 6D

Advanced nanoelectronics devices Prof. dr. B. Koopmans (TU/e) Functional nanophotonics Prof. dr. L. Kuipers (AMOLF) Nano-bio interfaces & devices Prof. dr. S.G. Lemay (UT) Active nanophotonic devices Prof. dr. P.M. Koenraad (TU/e)

2. Energy 7. Nano materials 2A 2B

Efficient generation of sustainable energy Prof. dr. W.C. Sinke (ECN) Efficient energy utilization by secondary conversion of energy and seperation Prof. Dr. F. Kapteijn (TUD)

3. Nanomedicine 3A

3B 3C 3D 3E

Nanoscale biomolecular interactions in disease Prof. dr. V. Subramaniam (UT) Nanofluidics for lab-on-a-chip Prof. dr. ir. A. van den Berg (UT) Molecular imaging Prof. dr. K. Nicolaij (TU/e) Drug delivery Prof. dr. G. Storm (UU) Integrated Microsystems for Biosensing Prof. dr. H. Zuilhof (WUR)

7A 7B

Supramolecular and bio-inspired materials Prof. dr. A.E. Rowan (RU) Multilayered and artificial materials Dr. ing. A.J.H.M. Rijnders (UT)

8. Bio-nano 8A

8B

Nanomolecular machines in cellular force-transduction Prof. dr. A.M. Dogterom (AMOLF) Bionano interactions for biosensing Prof. dr. ir. G.J.L. Wuite (VU)

9. Nano fabrication 9A 9B

Nano-inspection and characterization Prof. dr. J.W.M. Frenken (UL) Nano patterning Prof. dr. ir. P. Kruit (TUD)

4. Clean Water 10. Sensors and actuators 4A

Nanotechnology in water applications Prof. dr. ir. R.G.H. Lammertink (UT)

5. Food 5A

5B 5C 5D

10A 10B

Food process monitoring and product quality assessment Dr. ir. M.A. Jongsma (WUR-DLO) Molecular structure of food Dr. K.P. Velikov (Unilever) Food products and processes Prof. dr. ir. R.M. Boom (WUR) Microdevices for structuring and isolation Dr. ir. K. Schroen (WUR)

10C

Systems and packaging Prof. dr. U. Staufer (TUD) Micro nozzles Dr. ir. H. Wijshoff (OcĂŠ) Microdevices for chemical processing Dr. ir. M. Blom (Micronit)