Nanotechnology Research Services NAICS 541713
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Industry Summary
The 1,540 nanotechnology research services companies conduct research and experimental development on matter at the nanoscale (1 to 100 nanometers). Their work may evolve into the creation of new nanotechnology processes, materials, or products that may be reproduced, utilized, or implemented by different industries. Firms study the physical, chemical, biological, and optical properties of matter at the nanoscale that differ from the properties of bulk materials, single atoms, and molecules. Nanostructured materials may be stronger, more chemically reactive, or have different magnetic properties compared to the standard forms and sizes of the same material. The end goal of research is to develop technology or new applications of technology for commercialization.
Dependence on End Markets and Economic Conditions
The nanotechnology industry is dependent on the output of end markets, which are impacted by economic conditions.
Patents Decline
While the total number of patents granted for nanotechnology has fallen over time, certain categories experienced growth.
Recent Developments
Mar 22, 2025 - Nanotechnology may Improve Coastal Oil Spill Cleanup
- Nanomaterials offer distinct properties that can enhance various oil spill remediation approaches, according to Concordia University researchers. Bio-based nanomaterials have shown high efficiency in oil extraction while reducing the production of harmful byproducts, making them a potential alternative to synthetic surfactants and organic solvents. Nanomaterials in sorbents such as foams and aerogels improve oil removal through adsorption, absorption, or a combination of both, due to their high surface area and numerous sorption sites. Nanomaterials can also enhance bioremediation, where microorganisms break down oil into less toxic or non-harmful compounds.
- Researchers in China used nanoparticles to create a sunscreen formulation that offers cooling effects in addition to protecting from UV light, according to the American Chemical Society. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is used in various passive radiative cooling technologies because its white color reflects heat. However, sunscreens containing TiO2 don’t reflect heat because the particles are too large. The researchers used TiO2 nanoparticles with several other typical sunscreen ingredients to create a prototype SPF 50 sunscreen that offered UV light protection while reducing skin temperature by up to 11 degrees Fahrenheit.
- A glut of life sciences real estate that took hold in 2024 is likely to persist in 2025, according to real estate firm JLL. The surplus of life science and lab space is putting downward pressure on rents and slamming the brakes on new construction. Historically, life sciences property rents start to move upward during periods of increased construction activity, and JLL doesn’t expect that to happen for another four to five years. Rent growth in secondary life sciences markets will be challenging to the point that some properties – even ones that have yet to come online – may be converted to office or tech-focused space.
- The nanotechnology research services industry is expected to experience flat sales growth over the next few years. The industry’s year-over-year sales growth is estimated to have dropped to about 6.8% in 2024 after posting growth of 8.9% in 2023, according to Inforum and the Interindustry Economic Research Fund, Inc. The industry’s sales growth is forecast to moderate to 6.5 in 2025, then see an average annual rise of about 6.6% through 2028, according to Inforum and the Interindustry Economic Research Fund, Inc.
Industry Revenue
Nanotechnology Research Services
Industry Structure
Industry size & Structure
The average nanotechnology research and development company employs about 20 workers and generates $23 million annually.
- The nanotechnology research and development industry consists of about 1,540 firms that employ about 30,000 workers and generate $35 billion annually.
- The industry is concentrated with the top 50 companies account for about 65% of industry revenue.
- Estimated revenue for US products that incorporate nanotechnology totaled $3 trillion in 2020, according to the Congressional and National Science Foundation studies.
- Government-funded organizations that host nanotechnology research include Argonne National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Universities with major nanotechnology research centers (which receive government funding) include Cornell, Northwestern, Stanford, and the University of Minnesota.
Industry Forecast
Industry Forecast
Nanotechnology Research Services Industry Growth
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