Close partnership between private sector, universities vital:

Nanotechnology, an answer to global economic crisis

Ramani Kangaraarachchi

The development and commercialization of nano technology-based products requires a close partnership between the private sector and universities, Director, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (SMED) Renuka Rodrigo told a media briefing organized by the SMED at the Government Information Department, Narahenpita recently.

She said that nanotechnology will be the dominant innovative force behind medicine, materials, science, industrial and consumer electronics in the near future. Therefore, it is vital to understand the know-how and what role Sri Lankan SMEs can play in this regard.

She said that the value addition to existing products through nanotechnology is to be researched and one such product could be the plastic and rubber products which has caused a negative impact on the environment.

The production and use of oil and other fossil fuels continues to rise on a yearly basis to record new levels. At the same time, fewer new oil fields are being identified which means that oil production will not be able to satisfy the demand over the next few decades.

The use of fossil fuels is also increasing the burden on the environment in terms of greenhouse gases and global warming. Although alternative energy sources are known their efficiency based on cost is poor. Nanotechnology advances can improve this, she said.

However, the commercial progress in Nanotechnology requires standards, based on science and engineering. It is very important to network with all stakeholders to promote initiatives and technology to industry to add value.

Research reports should be made available to promote the industry. Unless industrialists come up with innovative products the market will not be sustainable. Nanotechnology could be one of the answers to the global economic crisis.

Rodrigo said that the potential industries where nano technology can be easily applicable and adoptable has to be identified and the Government’s policies should support such industries to overcome financial commitment. Also industries have to be made aware of the potential collaborations with research institutions to develop their products.

The FCCISL can be the focal point for any such collaboration. It is important that knowledge transfer to SMEs has to be in their own language and the media too has a vital role to play in promoting technological awareness programs among the public, she said.