The anticipated impact of nanotechnology upon society is frequently referred to as the "second industrial revolution." Recognizing the potential that nanotechnology has to affect business and industry in the near future, Barnes & Thornburg LLP has established a Nanotechnology Practice Group to continue its current work in the area and assist businesses involved in seeking new applications of nanotechnology.

Nanotechnology refers to a field of applied science and technology that relates to the control of matter on the atomic or molecular scale, generally 100 nanometers or smaller, and the fabrication of devices or materials that lie within that size range. The firm's attorneys already are advising clients on nanotechnology's applications in a variety of fields, including in biotechnology, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, electrical engineering and environmental.

The practice group, co-chaired by Philip J. Faccenda, Jr., a partner in the firm's South Bend office, and Todd Vare, a partner in the firm's Indianapolis office, includes attorneys from a variety of disciplines, including intellectual property, business, environmental, biotech, governmental services, entrepreneurial services and litigation.

"Our clients increasingly are investigating how nanotechnology can be brought to market in a variety of applications - from biotech to textiles, manufacturing processes to environmental remediation," Vare said. "This new group gives us a more integrated approach to helping clients use nanotechnology to advance their business interests in their particular industry sectors."

The announcement comes on the heels of a seminar hosted by Barnes & Thornburg that addressed the possibilities of nanotechnology from the perspectives of a Barnes & Thornburg attorney as well as professors from Purdue University and the University of Notre Dame. In addition, the recent announcement of the new Midwest Institute for Nanoelectronics Discovery (MIND) at the University of Notre Dame has raised the profile of nanotechnology and its applications, especially in the Midwest.

"Barnes & Thornburg recognizes the impact the new institute will have on businesses throughout Indiana and the Midwest," Faccenda said. "We want to do everything we can to provide helpful counsel on the issues related to nanotechnology."

With more than 475 attorneys and other legal professionals, Barnes & Thornburg LLP is the largest law firm in Indiana and one of the largest firms in the Midwest. The firm serves clients worldwide from its offices in Chicago, Indiana, Michigan and Washington, D.C.