True nano-enabled sensors are rare; while size-dependent properties create
dramatically improved devices, 'good enough' existing alternatives limit
opportunity
SAN FRANCISCO, May 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Nanosensors have been pushed forward
as a key early nanotechnology application, with boosters projecting billions
of dollars in market opportunity. Sensors happen to be among the simplest
electronic devices one can make from nanomaterials, yielding an abundance of
development activity. But of 66 companies claiming to offer nanosensors, only
13 actually harness the size-dependent properties of nanomaterials, according
to a new report from Lux Research entitled "Putting the 'Nano' in
Nanosensors."
Lux Research defines nanosensors as devices that employ nanomaterials,
exploiting novel size-dependent properties, to detect gases, chemicals,
biological agents, electric fields, light, heat, or other targets. Plenty of
investment has gone into nanosensor companies; in March, for example, Nanomix
received $16 million in Series C funding, primarily to move a disposable
respiratory sensor to market. Homeland security spending has served as a
potent catalyst: the $41 billion U.S. homeland security budget -- and the
creation of centers like MIT's Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies, a $50
million research collaboration with the U.S. Army -- has convinced
entrepreneurs that a large addressable market lies on the other side of a
working nanosensor.
"Nanosensors deliver sensitivity orders of magnitude better than
conventional devices," said Lux Research Senior Analyst David Lackner. "But
today's nanosensors aren't ready for prime time. Until sample handling and
selectivity issues are resolved, nanosensors can be deployed only under highly
controlled conditions. Plus, costs are high and unlikely to fall in the near
term. The mass markets that could deliver enough volume to bring prices down
won't adopt until sensors are cheaper, and the sensors won't be cheaper until
they're produced in greater volume. Thus nanosensor players are aiming at
military projects, where price is less of an issue, to break the cycle."
For the report, Lux Research constructed an assessment tool categorizing
66 companies identified as offering nanosensors. The report is available
immediately to clients of Lux Research's Nanotechnology Strategies advisory
service. For information on how to become a client, contact Steve Mills at
(646) 723-0163.
About Lux Research:
Lux Research is the world's leading nanotechnology research and advisory
firm. We help our clients make better decisions to profit from nanoscale
science and technology, tapping into our analysts' unique expertise and
unrivaled network. Our clients include top decision makers at large
corporations, portfolio managers and analysts at leading financial
institutions, CEOs of the most innovative start-ups, and visionary public
policy makers. To get connected and for more information, visit
http://www.luxresearchinc.com. For early registration and event details for
the Lux Executive Summit, please visit http://www.luxexecutivesummit.com
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