Enhanced digital edition
– available also in Italian –
1088press enhanced editions are freely accessible digital formats designed to provide an online browsing experience within each volume.
Access the volume Chapters from the INDEX menu or BUTTONS on this page.
Explore the new content: videos on molecular machines in motion, interviews with Nobel Prize winners in Chemistry 2016, and many color images on how nanomachines work.
The design and construction of machines and motors of molecular size is a stimulating scientific challenge and a primary objective of nanotechnology. During the past thirty years, chemists have taken up this challenge and learned how to make and operate simple nanoscale machines. Although these tiny devices are not yet part of our everyday life, we are approaching a new industrial revolution that opens up radically new perspectives for applications in catalysis, smart materials, robotics, information technology, and medical diagnostics and therapy.
Alberto Credi is Professor of Chemistry at the University of Bologna and Director of the Center for Light Activated Nanostructures (CLAN), a laboratory for the study of advanced photoactive molecular systems. His research work on the development of molecular-based devices, machines and materials capable of performing useful functions has received several awards in Italy and abroad.
Vincenzo Balzani is Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at the University of Bologna. He has received numerous awards for his scientific activity, including honoris causa degrees at the Universities of Fribourg and Shanghai, and the Nature Award for Mentoring in Science. He is deeply committed in dissemination activities focused on the relationship between science and society, and science and peace.