Engineering, manufacturing and construction

Modern nanotechnology has grown massively since its birth in 1981. Now, over 30 years after the launch of the first microscope that could 'see' individual atoms, the global market value for nanomaterials stands at approximately EUR 20 billion. The sector directly employs 300 000 to 400 000 in Europe, and products underpinned by nanotechnology are forecast to grow to a global volume of EUR 2 trillion by 2015.

Scientists have developed a material so dark that when you look at it, it's like staring into a black hole. The material, made of carbon nanotubes, is another step in the scientific quest which began in the 1990s to create the blackest of blacks.

It's dark and late. You're speeding through the streets of a downtown metropolis. You're being chased and the pursuers are quickly gaining ground. With a knowing smile, you simply press the 'launch' button of your jet car and take off into the night sky. The grounded villains are left staring into the air at your jet steam... It may sound like a typical superhero scenario but the reality (minus the drama!) could be a lot closer than you think.