Nanotechnology deals with arranging particles on the atomic scale. The United States' National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) website defines nanotechnology as "the understanding and control of matter at dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers, where unique phenomena enables novel applications." According to the May 2007 issue of the International Nanotechnology Companies Business Directory, more than 1,700 companies in 47 nations are reportedly pursuing the promise of nanotechnology. Many of the companies specialize in business-to-business products, such as specialized nanoparticulates made of metals and ceramics, nanotubes, nanowires and nanocages made of these materials, and imaging and tooling equipment designed for the nanoscale. Some companies directly involved with business-to-consumer products are using nanotechnology to improve the rain repelling capability of automotive glass, to enhance skin condition with highly penetrating moisturizer, and to purify air with supercharged oxidizing photons.
Quality practitioners and researchers can use design for experiments, statistical process control, Six Sigma and ISO 9001 certification knowledge to make strong contribution to nanotechnology.