Bart Stupak: “I rise in support of the Nanotechnology Research and Development Act of 2003. Science has revealed the far-reaching…”

“I rise in support of the Nanotechnology Research and Development Act of 2003. Science has revealed the far-reaching benefits of nanotechnology in recent years and I recognize the need for a more cooperative and focused approach. I thank Science Committee Chairman Boehlert and Ranking Member Honda for their efforts to advance nanotechnology applications and to call for today's authorization of important nanotechnology research and development, ethical oversight, and expert advisory. In my northern Michigan district, we have been proud witness to nanosystems research at internationally renowned Michigan Technological University. Located in Houghton, Michigan, Michigan Tech hosts one of the nation's foremost nanotechnology research centers, the Center for Mico- and Nanosystems Technology. Michigan Tech has long distinguished itself as a leader in science and engineering projects and now steams ahead in the development of nanostructure and lightweight materials. They have shown particular success with metal hydrides, to provide safer and more efficient storage of hydrogen for clean-burning hydrogen-powered vehicles--both civilian and military. These lightweight, durable nanotech materials could prove additionally valuable to NASA spacecraft construction.”