Landmark deal on nanotechnology

Priyanka Kurugala

The Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC) in a landmark agreement entered into a strategic collaboration with Nagarjuna Fertilisers and Chemicals Limited (NFCL) of Hyderabad, India, to develop the next generation of nanotechnology based plant fertiliser solutions.

It was the first technology providing programme from the country to the international market, SLINTEC science team leader, Professor in Chemistry, University of Peradeniya, Professor Veranja Karunaratne said.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Technology and Research Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi and India High Commissioner Ashok K Kantha at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel on March 15.

These are next generation nanofertliser products aimed at increasing productivity and income for farmers and creating a sustainable business for stakeholders engaged in agri-business, he said.

As part of this strategic partnership, SLINTEC is selling two patents covering their first generation nano plant fertiliser products, taking it from proof of concept to proof of value for commercialisation, he said.

“In addition we are entering into a long-term strategic technology development programme for the second and third generation nano

plant nutrition products. For SLINTEC, this is an opportunity to work with a global partner to take the product development journey from the lab to the field,” Professor Karunaratne said.

Head of Research and Innovation (Professor of Electronics Engineering Cambridge University) Professor Gehan Amaratunga, said however that SLINTEC has reserved the rights for Sri Lanka to exploit this technology on its own. Sri Lanka is known only for selling commodities and this deal between SLINTEC and NFCL heralds a new era in technology development in Sri Lanka, he said.