INNOVATION IN

NANOTECHNOLOGY
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE
PROCEEDINGS AND PAPERS PRESENTED
AT THE CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON
PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY
AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION:
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE

ASIAN AND PACIFIC CENTRE FOR TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY (APCTT)

The Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT), a subsidiary body of ESCAP, was established
on 16 July 1977 with the objectives: to assist the members and associate members of ESCAP through
strengthening their capabilities to develop and manage national innovation systems; develop, transfer, adapt
and apply technology; improve the terms of transfer of technology; and identify and promote the development
and transfer of technologies relevant to the region.
The Centre will achieve the above objectives by undertaking such functions as:
Research and analysis of trends, conditions and opportunities;
Advisory services;
Dissemination of information and good practices;
Networking and partnership with international organizations and key stakeholders; and
Training of national personnel, particularly national scientists and policy analysts.

The shaded area of the map indicate ESCAP members and associate members

INNOVATION IN
NANOTECHNOLOGY
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE

PROCEEDINGS AND PAPERS PRESENTED AT THE

CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON PROMOTING INNOVATION IN
NANOTECHNOLOGY AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION:
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE

ASIAN AND PACIFIC CENTRE FOR TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY (APCTT)

NEW DELHI, INDIA

INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE
PROCEEDINGS AND PAPERS PRESENTED AT THE CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON
PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION:
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE

APCTT-ESCAP, 2010
This publication may be reproduced in whole or in part for educational or non-profit purposes without special
permission from the copyright holder, provided that the source is acknowledged. APCTT-ESCAP would
appreciate receiving a copy of any publication that uses this publication as a source.
No use may be made of this publication for resale or any other commercial purpose whatsoever without prior
permission. Applications for such permission, with a statement of the purpose and extent of reproduction,
should be addressed to the Head, APCTT-ESCAP, P.O. Box 4575, Qutub Institutional Area, New Delhi 110
016, India.

The opinions, figures and estimates set forth in this publication are the responsibility of the authors, and
should not necessarily be considered as reflecting the views or carrying the endorsement of the United
Nations APCTT-ESCAP.
The designations used and the presentation of the material in this publication do not imply the expression of
any opinion whatsoever on the part of the United Nations ESCAP-APCTT concerning the legal status of any
country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
Mention of firm names and commercial products does not imply the endorsement of the United Nations
APCTT-ESCAP.
This document has been issued without formal editing.

CONTENTS
Page
ABBREVIATIONS
PART ONE: WORKSHOP REPORT

iii
1

CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY

AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION: AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE
I.
ORGANIZATION OF THE WORKSHOP
II. OPENING SESSION
III. CONSIDERATION OF ISSUES
IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

1
2
3
6
15

PART TWO: BACKGROUND PAPERS

17

PAPER I: NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR DEVELOPMENT: A TECHNOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL

PERSPECTIVE
I.
INTRODUCTION
II. SOCIAL IMPLICATION OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY
III. CONCLUDING REMARKS

17
18
18
19

PAPER II: NANOTECHNOLOGY AND ITS INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS: INTERNATIONAL,

REGIONAL AND NATIONAL INITIATIVES
I.
INTRODUCTION
II. NANOTECHNOLOGY ACTIVITIES IN INTERGOVERNMENTAL, GOVERNMENTAL
AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

27

DISCUSSION 1

34

PART THREE: PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCES PERSONS

37

PRESENTATION I: NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH IN CHINA

I.
INTRODUCTION
II. REVIEW OF NANOTECH IN CHINA
III. NANORESEARCH NATIONAL PRIORITY KEY PROGRAMMES
IV. COMMERCIALIZATION IN CHINA
V. CONCLUDING REMARKS

37
38
38
39
42
42

PRESENTATION II: COMMERCIALIZATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY

I.
ASIA NANO FORUM
II. NANOGLOBE

45
46
53

DISCUSSION 2

55

PRESENTATION III: NATIONAL OVERVIEW OF NANOTECHNOLOGY: STATUS AND

MEASURES TO PROMOTE INNOVATION
I.
INTRODUCTION
II. INSTITUTIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE

57
58
59

21
22

PRESENTATION IV: SOME ASPECTS OF NANOMESOPOROUS MATERIAL

I.
INTRODUCTION
II. NANOPROUS SILICA PARTICLE
III. NANOMATERIALS INDUSTRY STATUS

61
62
62
65

PRESENTATION V: NATIONAL OVERVIEW OF NANOTECHNOLOGY STATUS IN THE

REPUBLIC OF KOREA
I.
NATIONAL POLICY HISTORY
II. CURRENT GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES ON NANOTECHNOLOGY
III. RECENT TRENDS AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

69
70
73
76

DISCUSSION 3

79

PART IV: COUNTRY PRESENTATIONS

81

I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.

BANGLADESH
INDIA
INDONESIA
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN
MALAYSIA
NEPAL
PAKISTAN
PHILIPPINES
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
SRI LANKA
THAILAND

82
84
86
88
93
98
100
103
106
109
113

PANEL DISCUSSION

117

CONCLUSION

119

ANNEXES

121

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
PROGRAMME

ii

122
126

ABBREVIATIONS
AFM
ANEP
ANF
APCTT-ESCAP
ASM
bEGF
CAS
CINN
CNT
CoEN
CSMNT
CSTP
DOST-PCASTRD
DST
ECHA
ENNSATOX
ENPRA
ESCAP
EXFS
FAO
FJIRSM
GDP
GNP
HINAMOX
HMM
HRTEM
HUNN
ICPC
ICT
ILO
IMF
IMNTP
IMRE
INBN
INIC
INLIVETOX
IOP
IOS
IP

Atomic force microscope

Advanced Nanotechnology Education Programme
Asia Nano Forum
Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (of the Economic and
Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific)
Academy of Sciences Malaysia
biotinylated epithelial growth factor
Chinese Academy of Sciences
Chinese International Nano Electrical and Mechanical System Network
Carbon nanotube
Centre of Excellence in Nanotechnology
Chinese Society of Micro-Nano technology
Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy
Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Advanced
Science and Technology Research and Development
Department of Science and Technology
European Chemicals Agency
Engineered Nanoparticle Impact on Aquatic Environments
Risk Assessment of Engineered Nanoparticles
Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
Extended X-ray absorption fine structure
United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization
Fujian Institue of Research on the Structure of Matter
Gross domestic product
Gross national product
Health Impact of Engineered Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles
Hiroshima Mesoporous Material
High-resolution transmission electron microscope
Hungarian Network of Excellent Centres on Nanosciences
International Cooperation Partnership Countries
Information and communication technology
International Labour Organization
International Monetary Fund
Integrated Micro/Nanosystems Platform
A*STAR Institute of Materials Research and Engineering
Iranian Nanotechnology Business Network
Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council
Intestinal, Liver and Endothelial Nanoparticle Toxicity Development; and
Institute of Physics
Institute of Semiconductors
Intellectual property

iii

IPTLO
ISO
ISRI
JRC
KFRI
KIER
KNNI
LIPI
LPS
MAD
MGA
MNA
M/NEMS
MOE
MOET
MOST
MOSTI
MRI
NAM
NANOTEC
NANOTEC
NAST
NATAG
NBCI
NCNST
NEPHH
NERD
NND
NNI
NNRC
NSAG
NSF
NSFC
NSCN
NSNT
NSTDA
NTRA
OECD
PCSIR
PLGA
PLNs
PPP
R&D
R&D&I
REACH
RIPoN

iv

Intellectual Property and technology Licensing Office

International Organization for Standardization
Industrial Research of Iran
Joint Research Centre
Korea Food Research Institute
Korea Institute of Energy Research
Korea National Nanotech Initiative
Indonesian Institute of Science
Lipopolysaccharides
Mutual Acceptance of Data
Membrane gas absorption
Malaysia Nanotechnology Association
Micro/nano electromechanical systems
Ministry of Education
Ministry of Education and Training
Ministry of Science and Technology
Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation
Magnetic resonance imaging
Non-Aligned Movement
National Nanotechnology Centre
Nanotechnology Centre
Nepal Academy of Science and Technology
Nano Applications and Technology Advisory Group
Nanotechnology Business Creation Initiative
National Commission on Nanoscience and Technology
Nanomaterials-related Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards through
their Life Cycle
National Engineering Research and Development Centre
National Nanotechnology Directorate
National Nanotechnology Initiative
National Nanotechnology Research Centre
Nano Science Advisory Group
National Science Foundation
National Science Foundation of China
National Steering Council on Nanotechnology
Nanoscience and nanotechnology
National Science and Technology Development Agency
Nanotechnology Research Association
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
Polylactic-co-glycolic acid
Polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles
Public-private partnership
Research and development
Research, development and innovation
Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals
REACH Implementation Project on Nanomaterials

SAXS
SDRC
SEM
SFDA
SFM
SMEs
SPIO
STEM
STM
TEM
TEOS
TMOS
UNEP
UNIDO
UNITAR
USFDA
USPIO
WHO
WPMN
WPN

Small-angle elastic X-ray scattering

State Development and Reform Commission
Scanning electron microscopy
State Food and Drug Administration
Scanning force microscopy
Small and medium enterprises
Superparamagnetic iron oxide
Scanning transmission electron microscopy
Scanning tunnelling microscopy
Transmission electron microscopy
Tetraethylorthosilicate
Tetramethylorthosilicate
United Nations Environmental Programme
United Nations Industrial Development Organization
United Nations Institute for Training and Research
United States Food and Drug Administration
Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide
World Health Organization
Working Party on Manufactured Nanomaterials
Working Party on Nanotechnology

vi

PART ONE
REPORT OF THE CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOPON PROMOTING
INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY AND FOSTERING
INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION:
AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE

I.

ORGANIZATION OF THE WORKSHOP

A. Objective
Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT), a regional institution of
the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) has the mandate
to promote new and emerging technologies, including nanotechnology among its
member countries, and facilitate regional collaboration, especially in innovative and
industrial application of research and development (R&D) outputs. In this endeavour, a
workshop was organized by APCTT-ESCAP, Ministry of Science and Technology
(MOST), Government of Sri Lanka, National Engineering Research and Development
Centre (NERD Centre) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) in Sri Lanka from 2
to 3 December 2009.
This workshop was aimed at providing an overview and insight into the development of
policies and funding, infrastructure, R&D and commercialization, and education and
risk management related to nanotechnology in the Asia-Pacific region. It also presented
a number of nanotechnology commercialization case studies to highlight the possible
impact of nanotechnology in different industries and the challenges that companies
face in the course of its application in business.
The workshop was organized to meet the request from the Ministry of Science and
Technology (MOST), Government of Sri Lanka.

B. Attendance
The workshop was participated by APCTT-ESCAP member countries including
Bangladesh, China, Republic of Korea, India, Indonesia, Islamic Republic of Iran,
Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, The Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Ms. Lerwin Liu,
Managing Director of NanoGlobe Pte. Ltd., Singapore and Dr. Peter Mogyorosi,
Consultant to APCTT were two experts invited to provide overviews on nanotechnology
and commercialization of nanotechnology R&D. In addition, experts from China, Islamic
Republic of Iran and the Republic of Korea participated as resource persons, and
provided an overview of the status of and measures to promote nanotechnology in their
respective countries.
The workshop was also attended by senior government officials and scientists from
R&D institutions, universities and private sector in Sri Lanka.
The list of participants is attached as Annex I.

C. Election of officers
The following experts were elected as moderators:

Moderator (Session I):

Ms. Sirimali Fernando (NERD Centre, Sri Lanka)

Moderator (Session II):

Mr. Veranja Karunaratne (SLINTEC, Sri Lanka)

Mr. Jayantha Ramatunga (NERD Centre, Sri Lanka)

Moderator: (Session III):

Moderator (Session IV):
Moderator (Session V):

Mr. Sishen Xie (China)

Mr. Sang Ki Jeong (Republic of Korea)
Mr. K. Ramanathan (Head of APCTT-ESCAP)
Mr. K. Ramanathan (Head of APCTT-ESCAP)

D. Programme
The workshop proceeded as per the programme attached as Annex II.

II.

OPENING OF THE SESSION

The event was inaugurated by Sri Lankas traditional candle lighting ceremony
symbolizing the dispelling of the darkness of ignorance. This was followed by the
welcome address by Mr. L.P. Jayasinghe, Director of NERD Centre, and an opening
address by Prof. Tissa Vitharana, Minister of Science and Technology, Sri Lanka, who
shared his vision on nanotechnology for improving quality of life for the Sri Lankan
people.

A. Welcome address
Mr. L.P. Jayasinghe, Director of NERD Centre, expressed his great pleasure for being
able to invite and welcome all the participants to the workshop on nanotechnology. He
welcomed all the foreign delegates to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka and hoped they
would have a successful workshop and a very enjoyable visit to the country.
Mr. Jayasinghe said that the participants should try to get clarity and understanding of
the new cutting-edge technology and exhorted all to work together to make sure that
their efforts promote the well being of their poor people, not only in the region but in the
entire world. On a personal note, Mr. Jayasinghe stated that he looked forward to
learning more about nanotechnology, adding that he had much hope on nanotechnology
being able to help the country leapfrog into the future.
Mr. Jayasinghe noted that it had taken several years to reach the point where they
were at present. He felt technology was still not sufficiently entering the daily life,
particularly in relation to industrial applications. He was very pleased to note that the
workshop would also focus on the industrial application of nanotechnologies. He
conveyed his best wishes to the participants of the workshop, and requested the Sri
Lankan participants to absorb their maximum from this workshop so that it could be
put to use. He thanked Mr. Ramanathan, Head of APCTT-ESCAP, for arranging the
event.

B. Inaugural address
In his inaugural address, Prof. Tissa Vitharana noted that 13 countries were participating
in the regional endeavour. He congratulated APCTT-ESCAP and NERD Centre for
organizing this important international workshop because they were representing
countries that unfortunately had a large number of poor people and constantly were

under pressure to relieve this situation. They had to ensure that top cutting-edge
technology was applied properly in industries if they wished to emerge from poverty.
Currently in the Asia-Pacific region, there were much under-development within countries
and development disparities between countries. However, some countries in the region,
such as the Republic of Korea and China, had been able to catch the emerging waves
of technology, he noted. The basic force for their development had been microelectronics,
in particular information and communication technology (ICT), new materials,
biotechnology, etc. Countries like Sri Lanka, however, could not ride on those waves of
technology and therefore remained financially poor countries although they had rich
resources. They were behind other nations in their attempt to harness technology,
particularly for relieving poverty and emerging from poverty.
He said that the world at present was witnessing a new wave of technology called
nanotechnology, which had several impacts on other technologies as well. If the
developing countries could catch this wave of nanotechnology then they would be able
to leapfrog and benefit from the globalized economy. However, he said, the challenge
would be to harness nanotechnology to add value to their natural resources and
agricultural resources, and establish industries that would generate the income they
needed.
As known, if they wished to sell the products and services, the global market was
highly competitive. The challenge was that they had to not only match other countries
in quality and price competitiveness, but also possibly do better. According to Prof.
Vitharana, they had to work collectively on these efforts, pooling their resources. Those
countries that are stronger, those that had the fortune to be ahead, needed to help the
weaker ones. There was a need for all to work in cooperation and make the SouthSouth cooperation effective. He mentioned that European nations, despite their past
colonial heritage and their strengths, had felt the need to come together as European
Union (EU) to meet the challenges of globalization. They needed collective efforts to
meet the challenges. The Minister pointed out that European Union had a programme
for nanotechnology development. Likewise, the countries in the Asia-Pacific region too
needed to pool in their resources together, as they had different types of natural strengths
and resources. They were rich in biodiversity and had the advantage of economies of
scale. Therefore, they had to take a regional approach and that was the challenge they
faced, the Minister said.
Prof. Vitharana then expressed his happiness about Sri Lankas involvement in
nanotechnology through institutions such as the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology
(SLINTEC), which had worked out a private-public partnership to take nanotechnology
forward. Such institutions were striving hard to meet the big challenges using their
limited resources, much like in other countries in the region. Therefore, he opined, the
countries could learn from each other, teach each other, and march together sharing
the responsibility of leaving poverty behind. They could effectively harness the new
technology to their advantage.
Prof. Vitharana thanked all who were involved in organizing this effort and hoped that
everybody who had come from abroad would benefit not only from the workshop but
also from their visit to his country. He concluded, wishing all a pleasant stay and
hoping that everybody would get the chance to see something of his beautiful country
and its culture.

C. Address
Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head of APCTT-ESCAP, then addressed the gathering, welcoming
all present at the consultative workshop on promoting innovation in nanotechnology
and fostering its industrial application in the Asia-Pacific perspective. He said the
workshop was a very important component of APCTT-ESCAPs continuing work on
national innovation systems and innovation systems for promoting highly emerging
technologies in the Asia-Pacific region. He expressed his deep gratitude to Prof. Tissa
Vitharana for kindly gracing the workshop with his presence. He pointed out that the
workshop had its origins in a discussion that he had with Prof. Vitharana several
month back. He said he was happy that resources could be harnessed to organize the
present workshop in Sri Lanka and that everybody could come together to take advantage
of what was taking place in technologically advanced nations, including those in the
Asia-Pacific, in areas such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, ICT, new and renewable
energy technology, and environmentally sustainable technology. These technologies
were not easy to be developed into commercially valuable form, he observed.
Nanotechnology was a highly multidisciplinary area and involved a number of fields
such as applied physics, material sciences, supramolecular chemistry, mechanical
engineering, mechatronics, chemical engineering, bioengineering and electrical
engineering with applications in diverse fields. To take advantage of developments in
these critically important technologies, nations needed to launch in a very committed
and focused manner initiatives that might be called technological leapfrogging into
important emerging areas.
However, the question that would crop up in everyones mind was how to realize this
leapfrogging effort in an effective and sustainable way. Mr. Ramanathan placed before
everybodys consideration some views as to how this could be achieved. Firstly, among
the countries in the Asia-Pacific region there were some nations, such as the Republic
of Korea, that were reasonably advanced in the field of nanotechnology. It would be
invaluable if an ICT-based South-South network of technological knowledge in this field
were to be formed to share information such as national policies, institutions working
in the chosen area, technologies available for sale and IP protection and utilization.
Such information would also enable countries to make benchmarking, and the network
would help them gain access to technologies that would enable them to leapfrog into
the intermediate levels of technology.
Mr. Ramanathan said it was well known that generation of those technologies through
R&D was expensive. Unlike the rich nations of the world, many countries of the South
did not have the kind of resources (2-3 per cent of their GDP) to spend on R&D. One
possible approach to overcome this would be to form a South-South network of R&D
institutions within which the members could share information on research institutions
and their research focus, researchers, and intellectual property (IP) that has been
generated. This information could facilitate the launch of collaborative efforts. The IP
thus generated through collaboration could be all jointly disseminated, he said. Mr.
Ramanathan added that he was truly delighted that the ministers of different countries
in the South wished to launch collaborative efforts to move forward. Perhaps the richer
countries in the South could consider providing some support to launch this SouthSouth initiative.
Before concluding, Mr. Ramanathan expressed his deep appreciation to the Secretary
General and the secretary of ESCAP for providing generous funding that enabled the
organizers to bring together international resources persons and country delegates to

the workshop. On behalf of ESCAP and APCTT-ESCAP, he extended his heartfelt

thanks and gratitude to MOST, Government of Sri Lanka, NERD Centre and NSF for
their lead role in organizing the workshop. He also thanked all the resource persons,
the international delegates to the workshop and representatives of the Sri Lanka national
institutions for taking the time to participate in this programme in spite of their numerous
commitments.

D. Vote of thanks
Mr. M.W. Leelaratne, Managing Director of NERD Centre, proposed the vote of thanks.
Firstly, he thanked Prof. Tissa Vitharana and the, NERD Centre for organizing the
valuable workshop in collaboration with APCTT-ESCAP. He specially thanked APCTTESCAP for heading the efforts to have this workshop in Sri Lanka and consequently
supporting it in many ways, and its Head Mr. Ramanathan for his guidance and valuable
support. He also thanked the resource persons who came from the Republic of Korea,
Hungary, China, India and Sri Lanka for generously accepting to share their knowledge
and experience in nanotechnology during the workshop. He stated that he looked
forward to a very fruitful collaboration through the workshop. He extended his thanks to
the international participants, who were to share their valuable experience in
nanotechnology programmes and initiatives in different countries, for giving an opportunity
to learn from them. Mr. Leelaratne also thanked the nearly 30 nominated participants
from important public and private sector institutions of Sri Lanka for accepting the
invitation and participating in the workshop.

III.

CONSIDERATION OF ISSUES
A. Overview
Nanotechnology is one of the most important and fastest growing revolutionary
technologies of this century offering solutions for many socio-economic problems (e.g.
global warming, water shortage). Nanotechnology is the manipulation or self-assembly
of individual atoms, molecules or molecular clusters into structures to create materials
and devices basically, their characterization through exact control of size and form in
the nanometre scale. Materials with nanometric structures are often found to exhibit
quite different properties including mechanical, optical, chemical, magnetic and
electronic properties compared with traditional bulk materials made from the same
chemical composition.
One nanometre (nm) is one-thousand-millionth of a metre (1 nm = 10-9 m); for comparison,
a single human hair is about 80,000 nm wide and a bundle of single-walled carbon
nanotube is 1.4 nm wide. The word nanotechnology is generally used when referring to
materials with the size of 0.1 to 100 nm.
The areas most benefited from nanotechnologies are:
z
z
z
z

Information and communication technology (miniaturization and efficient material

development);
Healthcare (diagnostic, cancer treatment and biosensors);
Environmental protection (reduce carbon dioxide emission);
Reduction of energy consumption;

z
z
z

Purification, protection and production of drinking water (arsenic mitigation and

nanofiltration);
Renewable energies; and
Agriculture and food security (using appropriate biotechnology and nanosensors).

Nanotechnology has sprung into prominence now due to the recent development of
various synthesis techniques/methodologies and the discovery of new tools for the
characterization and manipulation of nanomaterials. These developments include:
scanning probe microscopes such as scanning tunnelling microscope (STM), atomic
force microscope (AFM), scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM), high
resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), extended X-ray absorption fine
structure (EXFS), and small-angle elastic X-ray scattering (SAXS).
Nanomaterials display many untypical physical, electrical, chemical and optical
characteristics. Iron eventually stops being magnetic, super-white titanium dioxide
becomes transparent, inert materials (such as gold) attain catalytic properties, ceramic
stretches like chewing gum the list is endless. In short, nanotechnology promises to
provide designers and engineers with custom-made materials with remarkable (even
unique) properties.
The scale of nanotechnology-related industry and market is expected to undergo rapid
growth during the near future, leading to expansion on a global scale. It is estimated
that the market for nanotechnology products will increase to US$2,600 billion by 2014,
compared with US$500 million in 1999 and US$6 billion in 2007, and that 10 million
new jobs will be created in areas of manufacturing related to nanotechnology.

B. Session I: Global overview of innovations in nanotechnology

In his keynote address, Mr. K. Ramanathan mentioned that several developing countries
in the Asia-Pacific region missed the information and communication technology (ICT)
opportunity and were now trying to take advantage of the opportunities offered by it.
Some, through committed government support and entrepreneurial flair, used the ICT
wave to benefit in numerous ways. The present issues were (1) what the possibilities
were for the less technologically advanced nations in the Asia-Pacific region in terms
of the nanoscience and nanotechnology (NSNT) wave that was now upon them, and
(2) what could and should they be doing. He said that those issues would be a major
focus of his presentation.
Mr. Peter Mogyorosi from Hungary presented the industrial applications of nanotechnology and gave some examples of nanotechnology research outputs. He introduced
the activities on nanotechnologies in governmental, intergovernmental and other
international organizations in the European Union. Finally, he mentioned the kind of
European and Hungarian activities that exist in the field of nanotechnology.
Ms. Lerwen Liu from Singapore presented Asia Nano Forum (ANF) and NanoGlobe.
She said ANF was a network organization based on the mission to promote R&D and
industrialization in nanotechnology. She listed the members of ANF, events organized
by ANF (including Asia Nanotech Workshop for Young Scientists, Asia Nanotech
Forum, Nanotech Camp 2009 and Malaysia Nanotech 2009). NanoGlobe was a leading
nanotech consultancy based in Singapore and provided valuable services to corporate,
entrepreneur, government and research institution clients for strategic support of R&D
commercialization and internationalization.

C. Session II: National overview of nanotechnology

Mr. Sishen Xie presented the nanotechnology research in China. China was becoming
one of the leading five nations in the field of nanotechnology, with its own unique
advantage of high flexibility, low labour costs, zero barriers for new technologies, a
young and vibrant society, large amounts of foreign venture capital, low taxes,
government support and a home market with more than 1.3 billion people. There is a
national priority key programme in the field of nanoresearch with the following stages:
preparation stage, faster development stage and steady development stage.
Mr. Veranja Karunaratne from Sri Lanka presented the national overview of Sri Lanka
and the institutional infrastructure in nanotechnology. He said Sri Lankas aim was to
provide opportunities for global business with quality processes and other product
developments, and to situate the country as an international destination for R&D in
nanotechnology. One of the main import products of the country was titanium dioxide
(TiO2) for paint industry (US$12.5 million for 500 t/y).
Mr. Khosrow Rostami from the Islamic Republic of Iran presented the nations Nano
Initiative programme targets and achievements. Currently, nanotech industry in the
country was moving from research to production with over 500 consumer nanoproducts,
he said. One of its major products was silica, considered safe for food and
pharmaceutical applications by the United States Food and Drug Administration
(USFDA). He mentioned the industrial status of some nanomaterials in food industry,
in fuel cells, in medicine, carbon nanotubes, silver nanopowders, metallic nanoparticles,
magnetic nanoparticles for MRI and nanopolymeric material.
Mr. Sang Ki Jeong presented the national status of nanotechnology in the Republic of
Korea. The National Science and Technology Council established the Nanotech
Development Plan and prepared a 10-year implementation programme for
nanotechnology R&D and industrialization for the country to advance into the best five
countries in nanotech area by 2010. According to the recent government policy and
programmes on nanotechnology, there were some supported research field and some
major research instituted. Otherwise, the government would need to expand R&D budget
(especially in he growth and embryonic period) and strengthen the R&D network between
universities, research centres and companies. At the end of his presentation, he
highlighted the recent trends in and industrial applications of nanotechnology.

D. Session III: Country presentations on national policies and

institutional infrastructure
1. Bangladesh
Bangladesh is one of the Asian countries that have not yet established nanotechnology
programmes or initiatives due to the limited R&D in nanotechnology and the lack of
international collaboration, tools and equipment. R&D in nanotechnology in Bangladesh
is very limited. Materials Science Division of the Atomic Energy Centre in Dhaka is
carrying out some research work in the field of nanotechnology covering areas such as
synthesis of nanoparticles by chemical methods (e.g. silver, iron oxide and various
ceramic oxide nanoparticles) for studying their magnetic and dielectric properties.
There are research groups conducting research on nanoparticle synthesis and
application in composite materials. The Ministry of Science and ICT of the Government

of Bangladesh is giving emphasis on the innovation of new strategies and appropriate

technologies for the poverty alleviation and socio-economic development of the country.
For national plans to be implemented, promotion of nanotechnology is inevitable. As nanotechnology is comparatively a novel and emerging technology and became important
very recently, it would be adopted in Bangladesh to leverage its socio-economic benefits.
The scope for research in nanotechnology in Bangladesh is limited because of the
unavailability of appropriate tools and equipments, fewer numbers of resource personnel
as well as lack of proper training, less interaction and collaboration in this emerging
technology. This is the most appropriate time to have close cooperation among the
South-South countries to share the knowledge base and infrastructure for better
understanding of the nanoscience and technology for future development of this region.
For this purpose, expert-level interactions, discussions and formal meetings would be
necessary.
The national policy gives priority on the development of infrastructural facilities and
capacity building in R&D institutions/universities to carry out research in the field of:
information and communication technology, environmental issues and adaptation to
climate change, water resources development and arsenic mitigation, biotechnology
and healthcare.
2. India
The Government of India realized the role of nanoscience and nanotechnology and
launched a Mission under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in 2007.
The Mission on Nano Science and Technology (Nano Mission) of DST (nodal agency)
includes seven major elements. An allocation of about US$214 million for five years
has been made towards the Mission. DST had sanctioned US$20 million from 2002 to
2007, and the steep increase in the allocation speaks volumes on the importance
given by the government to nanoscience and technology.
As part of the international collaboration, the Mission encourages exploratory visits of
scientists, organization of joint workshops and conferences and joint research projects.
The Mission is also planning to facilitate access to sophisticated research facilities
abroad, establish joint centres of excellence and forge academia-industry partnerships
at the international level wherever required and desirable. The technical programmes of
the nano mission are being guided by two advisory groups the Nano Science Advisory
Group (NSAG) and the Nano Applications and Technology Advisory Group (NATAG).
Indian industries are coming out with various nanotechnological products including
water filters, biomedical products, chemicals, cosmetics and paints. Therefore, they
are in the process of formulating guidelines to regulate the products for the safety and
benefit of the society. They plan to form a regulatory body for nanotechnology and this
would be called Nanotechnology Regulatory Board. The aim of the Board would be to
regulate the industrial nanotech products that are used in day-to-day life.
3. Indonesia
Indonesia is the third most populated country in Asia, with about 220 million people,
and does not wish to be left behind in the nanotech era. Indonesia established a
nation-wide coordinated effort in to draw up plans for launching the national nanoscience
and technology initiative with joint forces coming from industry, government and
academia. The national government has designated two main actors in the

nanotechnology field Ministry for Science and Technology (MOST) for national research
institutes and universities and Indonesian Institute of Science (LIPI).
Indonesia is planning to carry out research activities in the field of nanotechnology
through interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaborations in order to progress its
science and technology ability and to win in the global competition through
nanotechnology networking. It conducts open discussions on the policy and
nanotechnology research road map according to the demand in the national development
programme. Indonesia stays tuned with the global nanotechnology research trend and
keeps up to date with information on global nanoscience and technology R&D.
The government S&T policy has set priorities in the areas of food, ICT, alternative
renewable energy, transportation management technology, health and pharmaceutical
technologies. It is striving to create innovation capabilities by supporting incentives to
the related programme and strengthen the nations science and technology research
attitudes and skills. In Kyoto University, Japan, Indonesian researchers are working on
cellulose nanofibre (bio-nanofibre) in wood cell wall which is as strong as steel, as
thermally stable as glass and as bendable as plastic.
The Indonesian Ministry of Research of Science and Technology has recognized the
multi- and interdisciplinary nature of nanoscience and technology and is planning an
integrated and coordinated national effort from government, academia, industry and
public, and from a collaborative consortium for nanoscience and technology R&D.
4. Islamic Republic of Iran
The Islamic Republic of Iran developed a comprehensive national nanotechnology initiative
since 2005 and made significant leaps in nanoscience and technology advancement.
It is a rapidly rising country in the field with a robust and extensive national
nanotechnology programme.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has realized that in the near future Iranian enterprises
possess no option but to utilize novel technologies to increase its share of the future
global market and to improve the level of nations wealth. Nanotechnology lends itself
as the most promising opportunity. The national government is in charge of promotion
of R&D and industrial production of nano-related products.
Iranian scientists and industries are actively engaging in international cooperation
activities. It has an established education programme to train M.Sc. and Ph.D. students,
educate the public and policy makers as well as industry and business community. Its
R&D priorities are energy, health, water and environment, nanomaterials and
construction. The embargo on the Islamic Republic of Iran has motivated the Iranian
industry to develop its own technology and products, including STM, water purification
system, air filters and industry-scale quantity carbon nanotubes.
Considering the impact of nanotechnology on the nations wealth and economy, the
Islamic Republic of Iran initiated a national nanotechnology development plan referred
to as Future Strategy in 2005. The strategic plan outlines the nations major action
plans for a 10-year period up to 2015, with the target being a position among the top 15
countries that are active in this very important area. In 2001, the country established
the Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council (INIC) to support the nanotechnological
development in many ways. Iranian Nanotechnology Business Network (INBN) was

10

established in 2008, and this network is composed of a group of business advisors and
investors to help and promote Iranian companies to start their business in the field of
nanotechnology. The network also facilitates international cooperation.
5. Malaysia
In the past few years, Malaysia recognized that nanotechnology would impact every
aspect of the society, industry and economy and committed itself to place
nanotechnology as one of the national priorities. However, at present, Malaysia lacks
the critical mass of qualified scientists, engineers and related professors who are
much needed to drive the economy. However, there are research activities of worldclass standing being conducted by Malaysian local scientists in universities and research
centres. The projects relate to important areas such as nanostructure mesoporous
materials, hybrid catalysts and others. In addition, there are many young Malaysian
scientists undergoing post-graduate studies in areas of nanotechnology locally and
overseas. The government aims to ensure that Malaysia benefits from advancement in
nanotechnology-related sciences by clustering and linking the resources and knowledge
of Malaysian researchers, industry and government.
The technologies developed by scientists and research activities in the area of
nanotechnology need to be commercialized to become one of the effective economic
growth engines of the countries. International networking in the region is important to
complement the capabilities and capacities as nanotechnology is very interdisciplinary.
The Malaysian government has taken seriously the development of nanotechnology in
the country. In the Third Industrial Master Plan (that will be span a 15-year period
2005-2020) is reported to recognize nanotechnology as the new emergent field. The
2006 national budget allocated M$868 million to be provided under the Ministry of
Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) for R&D. The focus will be on
biotechnology, nanotechnology, advanced manufacturing, advanced materials, ICT and
alternative source of energy, to encourage innovation among local companies and
developing new products.
The Malaysian National Nanotechnology Initiative, established in 2006, has served as
a central coordinating platform for driving the government nanotech policy and
coordinating R&D programmes and infrastructure as well as liaison with industries to
address business and economic issues.
6. Nepal
Owing to several factors, Nepal remains one of the least developed countries in the
world. Political instability, lack of visionary leadership, geographical location (being
land-locked) as well as the difficult terrain have all contributed to the extreme poverty
of its people. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Nepal is ranked 167
out of 178 countries in 2007 in terms of per capita income. Only 11 countries had per
capita income lower than Nepal.
The concept of nanoscience and technology and its applications are relatively new to
the Nepalese scientific community. They are not reflected in any form in the national
plans for promoting socio-economic development and enhancing competitiveness. Nepal
has not established nanotechnology programmes or initiatives due to limited
infrastructure for R&D, lack of trained human resources and limited international
collaboration.

11

Innovations and improvements related to nanotechnology in energy production and

storage, alternative forms of energy and hydrogen fuel cells are most likely to benefit
the people of Nepal. Nanotechnology in agriculture especially the development of
inexpensive applications to improve soil fertility and crop production could help Nepalese
farmers increase agricultural production and their income levels and decrease instances
of malnutrition.
Furthermore, nanotechnology applications for water treatment could provide clean water
to many people living in Nepalese villages without access to clean water. Also, in
biotechnological applications, nanosensors could be used to screen for many diseases
at small clinics. Nanotech-enhanced plastic film coatings for food packaging and storage
could enable wider and more efficient distribution of food products.
Nepal looks forward to the cooperation among APCTT-ESCAP member countries for
establishing a nanotechnology centre and for developing human resources in the
nanotechnology sector through trainings, workshops and seminar opportunities.
Nanotechnology could potentially help Nepal to develop the country.
7. Pakistan
Nanotechnology research in Pakistan dates back to the late 1990s and currently, it is
one of the hottest research topic in the country. Several research groups in both private
and government sectors hold the promise to bring this practical technology to Pakistan.
Pakistan stands out well by setting up a nanotechnology centre under the Pakistan
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR) where facilities are available for
the industry to use as well as conduct R&D that meets industry needs. Its
nanotechnology lab facilities are utilized for the development, synthesis and
characterization of 12 different nanocomposite coatings used in industries such as
orthopaedic implants, surgicals, tool & die cutting and textiles. Carbon-based
nanotechnology research was accelerated in 2003 with funding from the Ministry of
Science and Technology to make Pakistans first research laboratory dedicated for
carbon nanoscience and technology.
The aim is to prove that Pakistan is not so backward in this hi-tech area and to invite
and promote youngsters to step into this new but developing area. Pakistan promotes
international collaborations to conduct collaborative research work among the ESCAP
member countries in the field of nanotechnology. The process of sharing skills,
knowledge, technologies and industrialization among member countries and their
institutions would ensure scientific and technological developments. The technology
may become accessible to a wider range of users who can then further develop and
exploit it into application of new products, materials and processes.
The nanotechnology policy in Pakistan is decided by the National Commission on
Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST). It places priority on industry development and
support. Pakistan has set up a functional nanotechnology centre that focuses on
nanocoating, nanomaterials and nanopowder R&D and industry development.
8. The Philippines
The Government of the Philippines recently took the initiative to craft a road map for
the development of an R&D strategy on nanotechnology. It announced a 10-year strategy
to create a commercially viable industry using nanotechnology. There are currently a

12

few experts in the country working on nanotechnology development and they have
successfully integrated it in biotechnology and material sciences.
As nanotechnology is already in the country, researchers are not starting from zero
capabilities. Education and research in nanotechnology is essential to explore the
potential of the technology and the government has launched education programmes,
providing incentives for attracting overseas Philippine scientists and engineers to return
home and share their expertise in order to accelerate the scientific agro-industrial and
economic development of the country. The Department of Science and TechnologyPhilippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research and Development
(DOST-PCASTRD) made this announcement as part of an effort to bolster economic
development in the country. PCASTRDs mandate is to develop, integrate and coordinate
the national research system for advanced science and technology and related fields.
Its nanotechnology strategic road map will cover at least six industrial sectors the
semiconductor, information technology, energy, agriculture, medicine and environment
protection. The road map indicates that funding would be provided to several
nanotechnology projects, intended to benefit identified industrial sectors. According to
PCASTRD, over a dozen scientists from different fields are now involved in the selection
of the projects that would be funded.
DOST has taken notice and drawn a road map to shepherd this post-industrial technology
in the country through its attached agency. The road map outlines focused R&D in
exploring and exploiting high impact and life-enhancing benefits of nanotechnology.
9. Republic of Korea
In July 2001, the National Science and Technology Council established the Nanotech
Development Plan and prepared a 10-year implementation programme for
nanotechnology R&D and industrialization for the Republic of Korea to advance into
the best five countries in nanotech area by 2010. Furthermore, in order to contribute
effectively to the Korea National Nanotech Initiative (KNNI), a variety of national R&D
programmes has been launched. Most of the enterprises working in the field of
nanotechnology were established in 2000-2004. Only a few enterprises have come up
after 2005, owing to uncertainty of the nano market and the economic crisis. As a
major part of nanotechnology development, the Republic of Korea aims to develop
R&D infrastructure construction of Users Fabrication Centre for general purposes,
support intensively the strategically important research fields and the education of
skilled workers for rapid progress in nanotechnology.
The plans are (1) to expand R&D budget (growth and embryonic period), (2) to strengthen
the R&D network between universities, research centres and companies, (3) to expand
fundamental research and commercialization and (4) to facilitate venture companies.
The national government is committed to nanotechnology through investments in
nanotechnology-related R&D projects and infrastructures. This will definitely help in
not only keeping its existing semiconductor and display industry leadership but also
opening new industrial opportunities. There is a need for strong policy implications
calling for new public mechanisms fostering learning and selection in explorations of
convergence. They need a platform for South-South cooperation in Asia to overcome
the brain-drain through brain-pooling and to operate an intra-continental and intercontinental network of clusters.

13

10. Sri Lanka

The Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC) envisions being the leading
research and innovation platform for sustainable nanotechnology in Asia. Thereby, it
aims to transform Sri Lanka into a strong nanotechnology-focused nation. SLINTEC is
the R&D arm or incubator while the commercial production facility will be NANCO Ltd.
The Nanotechnology Centre and Science Park is set up at NANCO. Sri Lanka built it
for R&D and limited funding from the government so far shows its commitment in
developing nanotechnology with a unique private-public partnership (PPP) and
passionate scientists. SLINTEC has five joint venture partners who drive the policy and
direction of SLINTEC.
SLINTEC and its joint venture partners, who have invested their own funds in the startup and been given positions in the SLINTEC Board, have defined specific projects
SLINTEC should be focusing on. Sri Lanka has never had this kind of science and
technology infrastructure before. The plan is to pose Sri Lanka as an international
destination for R&D in nanotechnology.
The aim of SLINTEC is to be the leading research and innovation platform for sustainable
nanotechnology in Asia. SLINTEC builds upon the global values of economic,
environmental and social sustainability and takes the initiative a step further by applying
a strict no-unsustainable project policy.
The National Nanotechnology Initiative will be the basis for driving the nanotechnology
policy. This policy covers all applications and research in nanotechnology. The aim is
to address economic and social challenges in areas including health and medicine,
electronics, energy and environment, advanced materials and ICT. Also, this policy will
focus on sustainable development with special emphasis for the health and
environmental effects of developments in this area.
The Government of Sri Lanka via the inter-ministerial task force shall implement a
National Nanotechnology programme through the establishment of a National
Nanotechnology Board.
11. Thailand
The Thai government realized the importance of the emerging field of nanotechnology
and established the National Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC) in 2005. The mission
of NANOTEC is to establish, support and promote nanotechnology development of the
country through research innovations, technology transfer, human resource development
and infrastructure. NANOTEC plays two major roles as a national R&D centre for
science, technology and policy and as a granting agency for R&D in nanotechnology.
It has now become the central institution for funding for R&D on this front, nationally. In
addition to pushing forward its own R&D, the Centre also provides services in nanoscale
measurement and characterization using state-of-the-art equipment to the academics,
industry and government.
The main objectives of NANOTEC are: (1) to conduct and promote R&D in
nanotechnology as enabling tools to improve the competitiveness of Thai industries;
(2) to develop well-trained human resources in the field of nanotechnology; (3) to establish
R&D collaboration among academics, industry and government, nationally and internationally; (4) and to promote public awareness and understanding of nanotechnology.

14

NANOTEC aims to be an internationally recognized nanotechnology institute that

conducts R&D that has major impacts on the development of the Thai economy and
society. Towards this end, it has an educational project and aims to encourage
nanotechnology education system to build a nanotechnology network. The
Nanotechnology Training in the South East Asia Region aims to transfer and exchange
nanotechnology knowledge to the South East Asia, to encourage nanotechnology
education system in the region, and to build nanotechnology network and collaboration
in the region.
NANOTEC also works on policy development. It has served as a secretariat of National
Nanotechnology Policy Committee chaired by the Prime Minister. It has drawn up a
nanotechnology road map that provides direction, strategy, research plan and
development of nanotechnology focusing on three platforms. NANOTEC has also
established the Risk Assessment and NanoSafety Sub-Committee.

IV.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Nanotechnology is seen today as a horizontal-enabling convergent technology that
cuts across all vertical industry sectors, while nanoscience is a horizontal-integrating
interdisciplinary science that cuts across all vertical science and engineering disciplines.
Since nanotechnology has the potential to impact all products manufactured now and
in the future, it could change the way we all live. Nanotechnology may very well be like
the disruptive technology waves such as the steam engine, electricity and ICT. In
todays context, especially from an Asia-Pacific perspective, the challenge is to explore
creative ways of using nanotechnology to help developing nations to promote inclusive
development and improve the quality of life of all segments of society.
APCTT-ESCAP has several years of experience in promoting networking of key science
and technology institutions in the Asia-Pacific region. Its experience suggests that in
such initiatives a central agency can play a coordinating role. Participating member
countries must be putting place at the national level an active infrastructure that is well
resourced and well administered to enable the national members to utilize productively
the efforts by the network. If this kind of committed support is not available at the
national level, then the benefits diminishes in comparison with the more productive
and better-resourced members of the network. By participating, countries should elevate
the resources to ensure that the efforts at the national level are meaningful. These
resources would be needed to enter into nanotechnology initiatives.
The total spending on nanotechnology for Asia-Pacific countries is continuously
increasing. It is very important to enhance the quality and competitiveness of developing
countries in the Asia-Pacific region by capturing the opportunities through national
developments and innovations in nanotechnology.
The suggestion at the workshop was that each country should:
z
z
z

Create a world-class environment for research, development and commercialization

in nanotechnology;
Transform the generated knowledge into innovative products and services that can
provide a competitive edge to local industry;
Enable nanotechnology uptake by the commercial sector;

15

z
z

Promote industry-orientated collaborative research; and

Study current policies, funding strategies, training programmes and support
structures for nanotechnology R&D.

It was felt that a stronger collaboration is needed in Asia in nanotechnology research

application in the areas of health, water and energy. The workshop encouraged
participation in the formulation of a project plan for an Asian-Pacific cooperation platform
(especially South-South cooperation). Experts stressed the importance of networking
and promoting the development of collaborative activities in nanotechnology between
countries in the Asia-Pacific region and encouraging participation in the development
of the plan for an Asia-Pacific nanotechnology collaboration.
While countries of the South should pursue efforts among themselves, working with
technology-generating and technology-owning entities from the richer countries of the
North was equally important. The proposed South-South cooperation initiative should
only be seen as a supplemental effort that could strengthen other parallel initiatives.
The ideas for further collaboration included improved information provision and greater
exchange of personnel and funding. Each country should start training programmes
such as university master courses, short programmes, summer schools and different
kind of trainings.
With nanotechnology as one of the science priority areas for Asia-Pacific governments,
countries should implement the programme and transfer nanotechnology knowledge.
Participants discussed national policies and support systems fostering innovation in
the nanotechnologies. The workshop encouraged participation to strengthen
collaboration between research institutions, companies working with nanotechnology
R&D, innovation entrepreneurship and business support organizations.
Mr. K. Ramanathan (Head of APCTT) concluded the event with the following suggestion:
We should work in partnership with existing networks to leverage what has been
accomplished so that developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region can apply
nanotechnology innovatively to improve the quality of life of its citizens while enabling
local industries and businesses to be able to compete better in todays global business
setting.

16

PART TWO

BACKGROUND PAPER (I)

NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR DEVELOPMENT:
A TECHNOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE
BY
MR. K. RAMANATHAN,
HEAD, APCTT-ESCAP

17

I.

INTRODUCTION
Over the next 10-20 years, nanotechnology will fundamentally transform science,
technology and society. However, to take full advantage of opportunities, the entire
S&T community must set broad goals; creatively envision the possibilities for meeting
societal needs; and involve all participants, including the general public, in exploiting
them. (Roco and Bainbridge, 2001).
Several developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region missed the information and
communication technology (ICT) opportunity and are now trying to take advantage of
the opportunities offered by it. Some, through committed government support and
entrepreneurial flair, used the ICT wave to benefit in numerous ways. The issue now
is: what are the possibilities for the less technologically advanced nations in the AsiaPacific region in terms of the nanoscience and nanotechnology (NSNT) wave that is
now upon us? What could and what should they be doing? The focus of this workshop
will be on these.

II.

SOCIAL IMPLICATION OF NANOSCIENCE AND

NANOTECHNOLOGY
The World Bank in 2009 identified some core areas where NSNT can make a major
contribution towards fostering inclusive development and economic growth. These areas
are briefly described below.
1. Nano-biotechnology The field of nano-biotechnology includes biological production
and utilization of nanomaterials, (synthesizing nanomaterials using micro-organisms
including bacteria, viruses, fungi, plant and animal-based products). Large investment
may not be required. It can leverage biodiversity and could lead to green production
approaches.
2. Safe drinking water Some nanoparticles are able to degrade pesticides and
pollutants, carbon nanotube (CNT)-based filters are able to remove bacteria from
water. Nanomaterial-based water purification systems coupled with membrane
technologies could help deliver safe drinking water in a cost-effective manner.
3. Strengthening food security Nanotechnology can be used to breed crops with
higher level of micronutrients, enhance pest detection and improve food processing.
Rice varieties can be modified to develop new variants with desired qualities. CNT
can be used in food processing and preservation as an oxygen scavenger to prevent
packed food from deteriorating due to the actions of microorganisms.
4. Health NSNT have the potential to revolutionize the health sector and to develop
cheap and effective diagnostic kits for a range of common diseases and innovative
drug delivery systems.
5. Environmental protection Nano-engineered materials can be used to remove
pollutants and thus to develop cleaner and green nanotechnology-based
manufacturing processes.
6. Energy storage, production, and conversion By using nanotubes and
nanoparticles, we can improve conversion efficiencies in solar photovoltaic
technologies. Innovative approaches are being currently developed to manufacture
nano-solar cells in a cost-effective manner so that these cells can be made in
developing countries as well.

18

7. Manufacturing Apparel with special niche and functional properties, next-generation

clothing, solid rubber tyres with enhanced properties such as abrasion resistance
for longer tyre life and nano-porous carbons for hydrogen and energy storage and
superior super-capacitors.
While the potential benefits to be gained through the deployment of nanotechnology is
increasingly being accepted, stakeholders have also expressed concerns about the
possible negative fallout. Some of the more important are listed below.
Ethical implications are as follows:
1. Ensuring fair distribution of benefits arising out of technologies developed by the
private sector that also have important humanitarian implications.
2. How should scarce financial resources be apportioned between NSNT research
and other areas?
3. Would lack of skills in developing nations to adopt and utilize nanotechnology
imply that manufacturing jobs will become obsolete as technologically advanced
nations substitute traditional processes by nano-enabled ones?
4. Issues of privacy.
Legal issues are the intellectual property (IP) protection and licensing and civil liability
issues.
Environmental implications include that certain sizes of nanoparticles can react with
biological systems in a way that larger particle do not, nanoparticles release into the
environment and their unintended impacts, and there is a fear from nano-toxicology.
There is a serious need for developing skills in nanotechnology risk assessment.

III.

CONCLUDING REMARKS
When one examines the potential of NSNT, it is easy to understand why nanotechnology
is sometimes referred to as the harbinger of the next industrial revolution. Yet, many
developing nations are not in a position to be able to take advantage of this technology.
If developing nations are to take advantage of the benefits that this disruptive technology
can offer, many serious skill, financial, infrastructure and policy issues that have to be
managed carefully. Sri Lanka has established the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology
(SLINTEC) within a public-private partnership framework. Several other nations in the
Asia-Pacific region have commenced their own initiatives. The Asian Institute of
Technology in Bangkok has set up a Centre of Excellence in Nanotechnology (CoEN)
and has commenced a postgraduate programme in nanotechnology in partnership
with Thailands Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC). While North-North platforms for
the exchange of know-how and research alliances are quite well established, countries
of the developing South should make sure that they are not left out of these
developments.
The formation of South-South nanotechnology partnerships could help in the eventual
formation of North-South research and business alliances. Collaboration between NSNT
researchers in the South and the sharing of their experiences and research infrastructure

19

could help to find solutions to urgent problems faced by their societies. Success in
such collaborative initiatives could provide the foundation for commercializing research
findings through both South-South and North-South partnerships.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hornyak, G.L. Dutta, J. Tibbals, H.F. and Rao, A.K. (2008). Introduction to nanoscience.
CRC Press, Boca Raton, United States of America.
Roco, M.C. and Bainbridge, W.C. (2001). eds., Societal Implications of Nanoscience
and Nanotechnology: NSET Workshop Report. National Science Foundation, p. 12.
The World Bank, (2009). Leveraging high technology to drive innovation and
competitiveness in key export industries and building the Sri Lankan knowledge
economy, The World Bank, Washington D.C., United States of America.

20

BACKGROUND PAPER (II)

NANOTECHNOLOGY AND ITS INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS:
INTERNATIONAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL INITIATIVES
BY
MR. PETER MOGYOROSI,
CONSULTANT, APCTT-ESCAP

21

I.

INTRODUCTION
Nanoscience and nanotechnology are poised for rapid growth, as depicted in Figure
2.1. The current main fields of nanotechnology and some of the main examples are
discussed below.

A. Material technologies
Nanotechnology can be used to manufacture metals, ceramics and polymers at exact
shapes without machining, and lighter, stronger and programmable materials with lower
failure rates and reduced life-cycle costs.
Nanofilters
Filters with nanometre-scale pores can remove 100 per cent of bacteria, viruses and
even prions. The ability to recycle water from any source for any use can save huge
amounts of water. Effective water filtration also permits the generation of quite dirty
waste streams from agricultural and industrial operations, as they cease to be health
hazard following such filtration.
Figure 2.1: World market share (2001) and projected world market share
(2010) of nanotechnology

Measurement &
testing of nanostructures (24%)

Ultraprecise
surface
restructuring (6%)

Lateral nanostructure (3%)

Nanoparticles/
composites
(23%)

2001

Ultrathin layers/coatings (44%)

Measurement &
testing of nanostructures (22%)

Ultraprecise
surface
restructuring (9%)

Lateral nanostructure (4%)

Nanoparticles/
composites
(28%)

2010

Ultrathin layers/coatings (37%)

(Source: Lazer Centrum Hannover e.V., 2004)

22

Nanoparticles
These particles have a size of less than 100 nm. They are the bridge between bulk
materials and atomic or molecular structures. The properties of a material changes as
its size approaches the nanoscale and as the percentage of atoms at the surface of
the material becomes significant.
Carbon nanotubes
Graphenes, fullerenes and carbon nanotubes (CNT) are carbon-based nanostructures.
Nanotubes are formed by rolling up a graphene sheet into a cylinder and capping each
end with half of a fullerene molecule. The length-to-diameter ratio is greater than 1,000,000.
They can be conducting or semiconducting. They are very strong, 10-100 times stronger
than steel per unit weight. CNT can be applied in fuel cells (hydrogen storage), optical
devices, electrical devices (quantum dots) and nanoscale engineering (nanomotor).
Light-driven nanomotor
The momentum carried by light can be used as a mechanical power source for
microscopic machines. A series of experiments has proved this. The light-driven rotors
work similar to windmills, with light playing the role of wind. Photopolymerization is
used to produce the microscopic machines. Optical tweezers hold and drive the
microscopic rotors. When the rotor contacts cogwheels (which can turn around axes
fixed to a microscope cover slide), it drives them. Complex light-driven micromachines
can be built.
Graffiti removal liquids and gels
They are able to remove spray-paint graffiti on porous, non-porous, Plexiglass and
painted surfaces.
Intelligent nano coatings
With this coating, windows are able to, for instance, reflect solar heat in the summer
and accept and transmit it in winter.
Nanosilver
Like ionic silver, nanosilver is a very potent killer of bacteria and has been shown to kill
fungi, algae and some viruses, including HIV. As a result, the most common application
of nanosilver is as an antimicrobial agent in products such as wound dressings, textiles,
food storage containers and personal care appliances.1 Nanosilver can remove more
than 650 bacteria, virus and fungi species, without causing any allergy. Nanosilver can
bestow on textiles antibacterial properties that lead to improved utility, particularly in
hygienic clothing. In comparison with other antimicrobial methods (like using chemical
materials), nanosilver has more durability and efficiency. Further, nanosilver technology
does not require any special equipment to be added to the processes normally employed
in the textile industry. Fabrics with nanosilver also have application in fields such as
sports and military.
1

Washing machines that contain ion-generating devices designed to release silver into the
wash water most likely release silver ions (Ag+) and not nanosilver, but this distinction has
not been independently verified. Colloidal silver, a liquid suspension that may or may not
contain nanosilver, has long been promoted and sold as an over-the-counter health tonic.

23

Table 2.1: Forms of silver

Term

Symbol

Diameter

Attributes

(nm)
Elemental or
metallic silver

Ag

0.288

The form found in silver jewellery, coins

and utensils. Not found in nature as a
single atom.

Ionic silver;
silver ion

AG+

0.258

A single silver ion can be dissolved in

water. Ionic silver is much smaller than
nanosilver.

Nanosilver

No symbol
may be called
nano-AG

1-100

Can be suspended in water or

embedded into fabrics or plastics

Colloidal
silver

No symbol

1-1000

A colloid is a mixture containing

particles larger than those found in a
solution but small enough to remain
suspended in the fluid for a long time.
Only those colloids measuring
between 1-100 nm satisfy the
accepted definition of nanomaterial.

Golf balls
In golf balls, nanotechnology is reported to reduce off-axis rotation for greater control,
reducing the chance of the ball veering off-course. Nanocomposite material used in
golf clubs is said to reduce the weight of the crown of the club, lowering the centre of
gravity and giving longer and straighter shots.

B. Health and Bio

By using nanotechnology tools and concepts, it is possible to study biology and engineer
biological molecules with functions that different from their nature.
Nanopharmacology
Nanotechnology has the potential to yield new pharmacological molecules, which would
allow customizing pharmaceuticals for specific individuals to maximize effectiveness
and minimize side effects.
Drug delivery
Nanotechnology could also help deliver medicines to targeted locations or tissues
within the body more precisely. Nanoparticles containing drugs are coated with targeting
agents (e.g. conjugated antibodies). These nanoparticles circulate through the blood
vessels and reach the target cell. Drugs are released directly into the targeted cells.
Such a nanocarrier has to be safe, biologically compatible (with cells and tissues),
chemically compatible (with the drug carried), biodegradable, stable, and easy to
manufacture at low cost.

24

Tissue engineering
Nanotechnology-based tissue engineering could coax a population of cells to form a
living tissue, structurally and functionally indistinguishable from that found in nature.
Biosensors
Nanotechnology will enable the design of sensors that are much smaller, low-power
and more sensitive than current micro- or macrosensors. These nanoscale bioelements
and/or transducer components find use in ultra-sensitive and specific detection for
analyses. There are nano-biosensors, which by use hollow structures called singlewall CNTs anchored to gold-coated nanotubes, for detecting blood glucose and potentially
many other biological molecules. The application areas of biosensors are: point-ofcare diagnostics, drug discovery, bacteriological detection, veterinary diagnostics, food
testing and environmental monitoring.
Nanorobots
It is possible to create machines or robots using nanotechnology that are close to the
microscopic scale of nanometres for a variety of purposes.
Cancer treatment
Cancer shells can be killed without the painful side effects of chemotherapy. Scientists
are able to destroy tumours without killing healthy cells at the same time. Nanoshells
bind to the cancer cells and make them susceptible to near-infrared light, which destroys
cancer cells while healthy cells remain intact.
Nanotechnology has some risks too in health and biological applications: (1)
nanoparticles can catalyse undesired chemical reactions in the body; (2) CNTs can
cause infections of lungs; (3) nanoparticles could easily cross blood-brain barrier; and
(4) some nanoparticles could be toxic.

C. Laser technologies
Over the past 10 years, laser system integrators providing laser micromachining solutions
have been faced with a major challenge satisfying an increasing demand for ultrahigh precision, at a smaller and smaller scale. From microelectronics to microfluidics
and renewable energy to healthcare, most applications require stringent specifications
with spatial resolutions for laser machining at or below the micrometre level, a process
called nanomachining.
Laser scribing technologies using ultra-fast lasers are currently applied in thin-film PV
solar and organic electronics (flexible displays, electronic paper) and arenas that are
presently experiencing tremendous year-on-year growth. Ultra-fast lasers enable
nanomachining of otherwise difficult-to-machine transparent materials. Nanoparticles
of any material can be produced by femtosecond laser ablation of the respective target.2

A femtosecond is one quadrillionth of a second. A femtosecond laser operates in this

ultrashort pulse range of 50-1,000 femtoseconds.

25

D. Nanoelectronics
ICT platforms are currently pushed to their fundamental physical limits. Display screens
on electronics devices have been improved, memory chips have been provided a
projected density of 1 terabyte of memory per square inch or greater, and the size of
transistors used in integrated circuits have been reduced.
1. Nanowires
They have a lateral size constrained to tens of nanometres or less and an unconstrained
longitudinal size. At these scales, quantum mechanical effects are important; hence,
nanowires are also known as quantum wires. There are different types of nanowires:
metallic (Ni, Pt, Au), semiconducting (Si, GaN, InP) and insulating (SiO2, TiO2).
Molecular nanowires are composed of repeating organic (DNA) or inorganic molecular
units.
2. Computers
Nanotechnology has a role in new logic and storage technologies. It is possible to
build computers with more than 1,021 bits in the same volume and almost 1 billion
Pentiums in parallel.
3. Energy
Nanomaterials can be used to improve the capacity of batteries, solar cells and fuel
cells. These are superconducting at room temperatures to reduce the high transmission
losses in our centralized energy supply.

E. Nanofoods
Food industry is developing a colourless, tasteless programmable nano-drink that could
be placed in a microwave oven that has been encoded with cooking preferences. In
nanofoods there is higher bioavailability of food ingredients such as essential vitamins
and minerals. They have longer shelf-life, increased pathogen control and reduced
spoilage. Food quality monitoring improves with nanosensors.

F. Future perspectives
A nanotechnological revolution is awaited with profound changes predicted in several
areas, such as:
z
z
z

26

Intelligent contact lens that lets one check the blood sugar level by looking in a
mirror.
Objects, arrays and devices that can be made from DNA and DNA-based
computation.
Plasmons are waves of electrons that propagate along the interface between a
metal and a non-conductive material like air or glass. Plasmonic materials could
alter the electromagnetic field around an object and make it visible.
Phone that is flexible, stretchable and allows the user to transform their handsets
into radically different shapes. These phones would be made of flexible materials
with self-cleaning surfaces, and would have transparent electronics.

II.

Nanonets networks of CNTs that enable numerous basic electronic functions at

low cost. The durable nature of nanonets makes them suitable for portable devices
like electronic paper, flexible touch screen, solar cells and sensors.
The front fender of automobiles could be made of a special plastic that when bent
will automatically return to its original shape (plastic containing nanotubes).
Automobile fuel lines made with CNTs that inhibit static electricity and reduce the
risk of explosion is another possibility. The other area in transportation that can be
improved by nanotechnology is space technology: nano satellites, nano sensors,
nano robots, nano rovers for planetary exploration, laser sails and space suits for
astronauts.

NANOTECHNOLOGY ACTIVITIES IN INTERGOVERNMENTAL,

GOVERNMENTAL AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
A. Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of
Chemicals (IOMC)
IOMC was established in 1995 with the goals of strengthening cooperation and increasing
coordination in the field of chemical safety. The seven participating organizations are:
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations;

International Labour Organization (ILO);
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD);
United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP);
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO);
United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR); and
World Health Organization (WHO).

Two other observer organizations United Nations Programme (UNDP) and the World
Bankand participate in IOMC:
These organizations hold regular meetings together to ensure coordination. The status
of activities related to nanotechnology is discussed at these meetings.
In 2004, OECD started to evaluate its member countries regulatory challenges as
regards the safety on nanomaterials. In 2006, OECD established a Working Party on
Manufactured Nanomaterials (WPMN). The work focused on policy issues related to
the environmental, health and safety implications of manufactured nanomaterials.
Through WPMN, governments share their perspectives on possible approaches to
maximize the environmental benefits, while minimizing the negative impacts, of
nanotechnology and products that contain nanomaterials.
WPMN was established to help member countries efficiently and effectively address
the safety challenges of nanomaterials. OECD has a wealth of experience in developing
methods for the safety testing and assessment of chemical products. The major task
of WPMN is to ensure that existing instruments can be reliably applied to nanomaterials,
ensuring that human and environmental safety aspects of nanotechnology are adequately
addressed.

27

Table 2.2: WPMN projects and OECD missions

Project

OECD mission element

Description

OECD Database on
Manufactured Nanomaterials to Inform and
Analyse EHS Research
Activities

Cooperation in R&D,
burden sharing

Searchable, Web-based database of nanotechnology

environmental health and safety research under way
in OECD and observer countries. Review of
nanotechnology EHS research conducted by WPMN
participants with an eye towards identifying gaps,
potential duplication and opportunities for strengthened
collaboration.

Safety Testing of a
Representative Set of
Manufactured

Cooperation in R&D,
burden sharing

Exploratory testing undertaken collaboratively by

member and non-member countries and industry to
develop datasets covering 59 mammalian and
environmental toxicity, environmental fate, materials
characterization, physical-chemical property and safety
endpoints.

Manufactured
Nanomaterials and
Test Guidelines

Harmonization

Ensure that harmonized OECD test guidelines are

available for use in the Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD)
programme. Provide guidance useful to members and
participants in testing nanomaterials to determine their
environmental health and safety implications.

Cooperation on
Harmonization
Voluntary Schemes and
Regulatory Programmes

Information sharing among members to facilitate the

application of consistent or harmonized approaches in
voluntary or regulatory activities for reporting and risk
management.

Cooperation on Risk
Assessment

Cooperation in R&D,
harmonization

Cooperation among members in exploring current risk

assessment approaches and their possible application
to manufactured nanomaterials; and developing
recommendations for advancing the state of the science.

Alternative Methods in
Nano Toxicology

Cooperation in R&D,
harmonization

Research into the possible application of alternative test

methods and how they might be used in the risk
assessment of manufactured nanomaterials.

Exposure Measurement
and Exposure Mitigation

Harmonization

Information exchange and guidance development related

to exposure measurement and exposure mitigation,
addressing: 1) exposure in occupational settings;
2) exposure to humans resulting from contact with
consumer products and environmental releases of
manufactured nanomaterials; and 3) exposure to biota in
the environment resulting from releases of manufactured
nanomaterials, including releases from consumer
products containing manufactured nanomaterials.

Cooperation on the
Environmentally
Sustainable Use of
Nanotechnology

Promoting cleaner
alternatives

Exploration into the opportunities the challenges of the

use of nanotechnologies for potential environmental
benefit, including how to address safety, sustainability
and life cycle aspects.

The Working Party on Nanotechnology (WPN) is the other subsidiary body of the
OECD Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy (CSTP). Its role is to advise
CSTP on policy-relevant issues within science, technology and innovation that are
related to the responsible development of nanotechnology.
The establishment of WPN was partly motivated by governmental awareness of the
rapid increase in public nanotechnology R&D investments globally. While private

28

forecasts suggest huge socio-economic opportunities for nanotechnology applications,

many aspects of the underlying developments are still poorly understood. WPN is
working to increase the understanding of nanotechnology in the policy environment,
including business and research, and to develop policy advice relevant to
nanotechnology.

B. European activities in nanotechnology

European Commission (www.ec.europa.eu)
The European Commission was launched in 2002; since then they have been working
to simplify and improve the regulatory environment in the European Union. They try to
make better regulation involving re-examining projects throughout the policy cycle:
new initiatives, proposal still under negotiation and legislation already on books.
The terms of the Council are:
z
z
z
z

Systematically assess new initiatives for their potential economic, social and
environmental impact;
Consult stakeholders and interested parties on all major initiatives;
Work to simplify the existing legislation; and
Measure and reduce administrative costs of regulations.

In May 2009, the European Commission, its Joint Research Centre (JRC) and European
Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched administrative arrangements enabling the
development of a technical basis for guidance to ECHA with respect to nanomaterials.
Based on this methodology, Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals
(REACH) Implementation Project on Nanomaterials (RIPoN) would be established by
the end of 2010.
It has three major tasks:
z
z
z

Substance identification;
Information requirements; and
Chemical safety assessment.

In the second call for proposals in the 7th EU Research Framework Programme (FP7
see the details below) the following five proposals are being launched:
z
z
z
z
z

ENNSATOX Engineered Nanoparticle Impact on Aquatic Environments;

ENPRA Risk Assessment of Engineered Nanoparticles;
HINAMOX Health Impact of Engineered Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles;
INLIVETOX Intestinal, Liver and Endothelial Nanoparticle Toxicity Development;
and
NEPHH Nanomaterials-related Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards
through their Life Cycle.

EU PF7 Programme
The main forms of community-level R&D cooperation are the four-year long research
and technology development and demonstrative framework programmes executed by

29

the member states. By strengthening the research cooperation among member states
and concentrating their resources, the goal of the framework programmes is to foster
the realization of such research goals that strengthen the scientific and technological
basics of the European industry, improve Europes international competitiveness and
promote the socio-economic development.
Based on the goals of the European Council set up during a meeting in Lisbon in 2000
according to which by 2010 the European Union must become the most dynamically
growing, most competitive knowledge-based economy the harmonization of the intermember state R&D activities and the aim to decrease the dispersion of research is
getting more dominant than before.
R&D together with education and innovation form the triangle of knowledge. Thus,
upon reviewing the Lisbon goals, research became central role. Among the goals set
up by the Council report publicized on 2 February 2005, are the increase and
improvement of investments into R&D, the formation of strong European industrial
base and fostering of innovation.
In June 2004, the European Commission created the document called Science and
technology, the key to Europes future guidelines to the support of the research
policy of the European Union, which defines the six main goals of the European
Unions new research policy as follows:
z
z
z
z
z
z

Establishment of European excellence centres through the collaboration of

laboratories;
Launch of European technology initiatives;
Stimulation of the creativity of basic research through the European-level competition
of research groups;
Making Europe more attractive for the best researchers;
Development of European-scale R&D infrastructures;
Strengthening the coordination of national research programmes.

Besides the domestic grant system, it is also possible to receive funding through the
grant system of the European Union. Regarding the project, the most important
programmes are as follows: European Union 7th R&D Framework Programme, the
Consortium Building Tender connecting to it, the BONUS-HU Programme, the
EUROSTARS Programme and the CORNET ERA-NET Programme.
The 7th Framework Programme was started in 2007. It consists of four specific
programmes Cooperation, Ideas, People and Capacities and has the six main
goals of European research policy. One of the most important goals set up by the
Framework Programme is the fostering of transnational research, technology
development and innovation cooperation. The programme in the 2007-2013 period makes
access to 50,521 billion funding possible. The specific programmes are as follows:
z

30

Cooperation Programme (32,413 billion) The achieved goals contribute to the

strengthening of the industrial competitiveness and the realization of sustainable
growth. It includes collaborative research, European technological initiatives and
the coordination of national programmes.
Ideas Programme (7,510 billion) It encourages the dynamics and creativity of
European research in every territory of knowledge. The point of the Ideas programme

is the support of exploration research of individual research groups also in the field
of engineering, social and human sciences.
People Programme (4,75 billion) Its goal is the quantitative and qualitative
strengthening of human resources engaged in R&D. A further goal of the programme
is to keep promising researchers within Europe and to attract them here the
Marie Curie Actions are created for this purpose.
Capacities Programme (4,097 billion) Development of research and innovative
capacities among others by developing research infrastructures, enhancing the
innovative capacities of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and building pullsector clusters.
Common Research Centre (1,751 billion) This is the decision-supporting body
of the European Union that provides consumer-oriented scientific and technical
help and supports the execution of existing policies.

C. Hungarian activities in nanotechnology

1. Hungarian Nanotechnological Platform (2007)
The premise of the Platform is the Hungarian Network of Excellent Centres on
Nanosciences (HUNN) project, which was accomplished with the support of the 6th
Research & Development and Innovation Framework Programme of the European Union.
The basic idea came from the late 1990s, when the idea emerged that the excellent
but divergent Hungarian nanotechnological research institutions should be standardized
and the points of possible cooperation should be found. The idea was followed by
action and a project proposal was submitted by the consortium led by the Chemical
Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The first project proposal did
not fancy the reviewers; they found that less research projects and more science
management would be necessary. The rewritten project proposal based on the previous
evaluation was granted funding in 2003 and after signing the support contract, the
project began on 1 November 2004.
The basic idea of HUNN suits the research concept of the 6th Framework Programme.
The goals of the project are the evaluation and summarization of research on the
territory, development of Hungarian research capacities, the help of Hungarian
professionals in order to create consortiums, preparation of project proposals,
information exchange, organization of further educational trainings, development of
research concepts, organization of research, keeping linkages with national and foreign
institutes involved in the project, and supporting the most marketable Hungarian products
and processes.
2. Hungarian National Technology Platform for Integrated Micro and
Nanosystems (2009)
The micro- and nanoelectronic industry creates high value-added services requiring
serious local professional knowledge. Thus, its development creates comparative
advantage in the global market competition. Owing to its nature and volume, it is one
of the key elements of the Hungarian economy (which can be one of the most important
factors of future economic growth). Because the manufacture of microelectronic
appliances are getting drawn out of Europe, such market segments have to be found

31

where it is possible to remain in competition not with cheap mass production but
with the creation of special functions using advanced technology (for example, in the
field of qualification and measurement technologies).3
Current assembly-type developments will not be able to achieve Hungarys future vision
and increased competitiveness; high value-added developments, which could be made
by the dramatic rise in the quality of education and clear governmental supporting
policy, are needed for this. Such developments would increase the scope of Hungarianowned innovative companies on the world market. On the medium term, this shift
could be backed by a Hungarian silicon foundry created with private capital and a
slice-technology base specialized for executing external plans. The quick transition of
ideas into production should be supported with institutionalized technology transfer
services as well as appropriate supporting system for innovation and spin-off companies.
For Hungary to become competitive and increase its R&D potential in the field of high
value-added micro- and nanoelectronic developments by 2020, the following are
essential:
z
z

Assignment of national industrial strategic priorities, creation of calculable,

knowledge-supporting governmental regulatory and industrial environment;
High-quality and immediate reform of the educational system, emphasizing
development of engineering and natural sciences, in order to create sufficient number
of qualified professionals for the sector capable of multidisciplinary R&D and
manufacturing; and
Maintenance and continued development of infrastructural research network and
knowledge transfer system efficiently securing sustainable research, development
and innovation (R&D&I) background.

The Integrated Micro/Nanosystems Platform (IMNTP) is a pre-competitive R&D grouping.

The operations body of the IMNTP is the Research Institute for Technical Physics and
Materials Science of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. This pre-competitive grouping
suits thematically and directly the goals of the Joint Technology Initiative of the European
Nanoelectronics Initiative Advisory Council (www.eniac.eu) and the European
Photovoltaic Technology Platform (www.eupvplatform.org). They would like to fit the
Hungarian initiative to the long-term R&D goals of the above initiatives.
The industrial segment linked together by IMNTP creates added-value products with
high intellectual value. In 2005, the overall export value of the domestically developed
IT products was HUF 60 billion, while the profit ratio of the whole domestic IT market
was 5 per cent. The export value of just two prominent companies in IMNTP from
domestically developed products is HUF 11.5 billion, while their profit ratio is several
times higher than the average of the IT sector.
The goal is to create the incubation of start-up and spin-off enterprises in order to
foster socio-economic utilization with the help of research institutes and massive
industrial presence backed up by higher education organizations that join the platform.
The strategy would also cover different areas of education, research and innovation.
3

A good
develops
domestic
field, and

32

example is the 100 per cent Hungarian-owned Semilab (www.semilab.hu) that

world-standard semiconductor-measurement devices and processes based on
know-how. Semilab is deemed as one of the world top five manufacturers in its
it has an annual turnover of around HUF 10 billion.

Concerning the emphasis of domestic references, the role of the platform is to support
the increase of chances for the Hungarian industrial players with the following:
z
z
z
z
z
z

Providing information to the platform members about the activities and plans of the
members;
Evaluation of demands and capabilities within the platform and their relay within
the network;
Joint project proposals, project development and organization of PPP R&D grants;
Evaluation of educational, training needs and coordination of trainings for the rise
of ability in joining project proposals;
Public relations and marketing activities; and
Providing international presence and representation (e.g. in European Union
platforms).

During its two-year long run of the project, the consortium will have the following tasks:
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Chart the operational area of the platform, identifying the potential partners and
persons and drawing them into the work of the platform;
Create the organizational set-up, work order and controlling body of the platform;
Seek linkages with the representatives of special politics and building connections
with them;
Create situation report on the working territory of the platform, reviewing growth
trends and challenges;
Form the future view of the professional working territory of the platform;
Draw up strategic goals of the platform in the field of research and technology,
creating or further developing the Strategic Research Plan; and
Create an execution plan for the Strategic Research Plan of the platform.

33

DISCUSSION 1
The speakers invited comments on the previous session from the participants. One
issue raised was about the desirability/feasibility of entering the field of nanotechnology.
Following discussions, the general view was that poor countries should stay with basic
research on nanotechnology and buy technologies from developed countries. The
example of Sri Lankan graphite industry was quoted. Previously, Sri Lanka controlled
50 per cent of graphite market. However, little research was carried out on graphite
technology. At present, the country controls only 2 per cent of the market, and depend
on technology providers fro any new graphite-related technology.
The participants asked Mr. Mogyorosi details on the European Unions Framework
Programme, which he provided.
Box 2.1: The European Union 7th Framework Programme (FP7)
The transformation of European industry into a knowledge-intensive one is essential
in order to produce high added-value products (which in turn is crucial to create new
industries) and meet customer requirements as well as growth, environmental, health
and other societal expectations.
Figure 2.2: Budget allocation for FP7
Capacities
4,217 million

Euratom
2,751 million

JRC
1,751 million

People
4,728 million

Ideas
7,460 million

Cooperation
32,365 million

Cooperation
The specific programme on Cooperation supports all types of research activities
carried out by different research bodies in trans-national cooperation and aims to
gain or consolidate leadership in key scientific and technology areas. FP7 allocates
32,365 million to the Cooperation programme. The budget will be devoted to
supporting cooperation between universities, industry, research centres and public
authorities throughout the EU and beyond.
The Cooperation programme is sub-divided into 10 distinct themes. Each theme is
operationally autonomous but aims to maintain coherence within the Cooperation
Programme and allows for joint activities cutting across different themes, through, for
example, joint calls.
(Source: www.cordis.europa.eu)

34

Table 2.3: Budget allocation for FP7

Area of cooperation

Allocation (%)

Health
Food, agriculture and biotechnology
Information and communication technologies
Nanoscience, nanotechnologies, materials and
new production technologies
Energy
Environment (including climate change)
Transport
Socio-economic sciences and the humanities
Security and space

19
6
28
11
7
6
13
-

Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, materials and new production technologies

(NMP)
The core objective of the Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, Materials and new Production Technologies (NMP) theme is to improve the competitiveness of European
industry and generate the knowledge needed to transform it from a resource-intensive to a knowledge-intensive industry. NMP research also aims to strengthen the
competitiveness of European industry by generating step changes in a wide range
of sectors and implementing decisive knowledge for new applications between different technologies and disciplines. Funding the NMP research theme will benefit new,
high tech industries and higher-value, knowledge-based traditional industries, with a
special focus to the appropriate dissemination of research results to SMEs.
Table 2.4: Nanoscience and nanotechnology activities
Topic 1
Call 1
Topic 2
Call 1
Call 2
Call 3
Call 4
Topic 3
Call 1
Call 2

Nanosciences and converging sciences

Support to dialogue and engagement for responsible
social acceptance of nanotechnology
Nanotechnologies and converging technologies
Novel tools integrating individual techniques for real time
nanomaterials characterization
Substitution of materials or components utilizing green
nanotechnology
Thermoelectric energy converters based on nanotechnology
Adding Value to Mining at the Nanostructure level
(Coordinated call with Mexico)
Health, Safety and Environmental Impacts
Reference methods for managing the risk of engineered
nanoparticles
Modelling toxicity behaviour of engineered nanoparticles
(coordinated with the United States)

35

36

PART THREE
PART THREE
PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (I)
NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH IN CHINA
BY
MR. SISHEN XIE,
INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS,
CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, BEIJING,
PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA

37

I.

INTRODUCTION
The Chinese governments nanotechnology policy aims to enhance basic and applied
research to increase the creative ability and form creative system for long-term progress
of nanoscience and technology in China. Recently, nanotechnology essentially demands
an approach that improves traditional products using nanomaterials or nanocomposites.
A strategic approach at the national level will require finding new industrial applications
for technologies such as nanobio and nanodevice.
The National Steering Council on Nanotechnology (NSCN) was set up in October 2000
as the coordinating agency. The council provides planning, coordinating and consulting
for nanotechnological projects in China at the nation level. Among the members of
Council, there are 21 scientists from universities and institutions, 7 administrators
from the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), State Development and Reform
Commission (SDRC), Ministry of Education (MOE), Chinese Academy of Sciences
(CAS) and National Science Foundation of China (NSFC).
Figure 3.1: Chinas nanotechnology framework
Directorate & Coordination
Council

National Roadmap
Development

National Programme
for Nano

Key projects
SAS

NSCF

MOST

800 University
Institutes
cooperation

Nanomaterials

II.

Nanodevices
&
Nanoelectronics

Industry
NRDC

Key projects
MR

4,000
scientists

Nanobiology
&
Nanomedicine

Characterization
&
Standardization

MEMS &
nano
fabrications

REVIEW OF NANOTECH IN CHINA

1. Early start in nanotechnology China is among the few countries that began to
explore nanotechnology since 1990s.
2. Initiation In 2000, China planned to set up a national infrastructure for
nanotechnology.
3. Leapfrog From 2001 to 2005 the number of scientists, institutes and universities
engaged in nanotech has grown rapidly in China. Scientific publications and patent
applications related to nanotechnology increased over these years. China started
to create a body to draw up standards for nanotechnology.

38

4. Turning Point In 2006, China released a new study plan on nanotechnology

developments in China from 2005 to 2010. China has been investing heavily in this
new technology.
The main issues are that the original inventions and important applications are very
few. There is a big gap between the academic research and industry needs. The total
funding is small, compared with developed countries.

III.

NANORESEARCH NATIONAL PRIORITY KEY PROGRAMMES

A. Preparation stage
As said earlier, China started to support the investigation related to nanotechnology
from the 1990s, for example STM, nanomaterials and nanodevices. But prior to 2000,
there were only a few institutes and scientists engaged in nanotechnology research.
MOST, NSFC and CAS gave a small amount of funding.
The Chinese media has made practically no mention of the concept of nanotechnology
(nami jishu) or its potential for revolutionizing Chinas high-tech industry.
Table 3.1: Chinas National Basic Research Programme (973) for nanotechnology
(1992-2001)

Project

Sponsor

Grant (RMB)

Year

Nanomaterials 1

MOST

10 million

1991-1995

Deep Sub-Microelectronics and

Mesoscopic Physics

MOST

10 million

1991-1995

Molecular Electronics

NSFC

5 million

1991-1995

C60 and their derivates

NSFC

5 million

1991-1995

Nanomaterials 2

MOST

5 million

1996-2000

Nanomaterials & Nanostructures

MOST

35 million

1999-2004

Carbon nanotubes

CAS

6 million

1999-2000

Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

CAS

25 million

2000-2002

Nanodevices

CAS

40 million

2001-2004

B. Faster development stage

From 1999 to 2002, funding for nanotechnology from government organizations increased
seven times:
z
z
z

RMB 440 million from MOST for basic and applied research;
RMB 280 million from NSFC for basic research;
RMB 130 million from CAS for basic and applied research;

39

z
z

RMB 230 million from SDRC for nano centre; and

Funding from local governments and enterprises for commercialization (funding is
always limited compared with developed countries).

After the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) was announced by the United States,
China added nanotech to a list of priority technologies at the end of the 2001. Nanotech
has enjoyed state funding since then through National 863 Hi-Tech R&D Plan and
National Key Basic Research Plan 973. At the same time, NSFC and CAS also
initiated their plans and increased input into nanotechnology. These national plans
provided huge investments for nanotech projects from both the central and local
governments. It covered the support to national projects and to set up the national
centres, and pushed up the rapid development of nanotechnological application research
in China.
Figure 3.2: Funding distribution for key technology R&D programme (2002-2003)

30

26.8

RMB million

25
20
15

13.5
11.7

10
5
0
CAS

Universities

Enterprises

Progress of nanoscience and technology in China

The 2003 review report on the patents pertaining to nanoscience and nanotechnology
from 2000 to 2002 by Thomson Derwent ranks China as No. 3 in the world. Statistics
of patents are as follows:
United States of America
Japan
China
Germany
Republic of Korea

: 32 per cent
: 21 per cent
: 12 per cent
: 11 per cent
: 8 per cent

At present, there are more than 2,000 patent applications.

The parts of the National Basic Research Programme-973 for Nanotechnology in China
2002-2005 are:
1. Nanoelectronic computation devices materials, structures and characterization
(Peking University)
2. Fabrication of spintronics materials, investigation of the spin-dependent phenomena
and development of spin-based devices [Institute of Physics (IOP), CAS, Beijing]
3. Microstructure and physical property study of materials at nano-scales (Polytech
University of Beijing)

40

4. Quantum structures, quantum devices and their integration in the frontier of

information technology [Institute of Semiconductors (IOS), CAS]
5. Nanomaterials and nanostructures (IOP, CAS)

C. Steady development stage

There are three national centres in China: National Nanoscience Centre, Beijing (over
RMB 250 million RMB, 14,000 m2); National Centre for Promoting and Developing
Nanotechnology, Shanghai (RMB 350 million) and National Nano-Commercialization
Base, Tianjin (RMB 200 million, 22,000 m2). Further, there are several local centres for
nanotechnology 22 local and university centres providing local services (Nanjing,
Hefei, Zhoushan, Shandong, Liaoning) and 61 Internet websites.
1. National key plan Nanoreserach
In 2006, MOST released a new study plan about nanotechnology developments in
China from 2005 to 2010. The plan was initiated in 2005 according to National Long/
Medium Programme for Science and Technology Development of China from 2005 to
2020. The total budget will be about RMB 2 billion from 2005 to 2020 RMB 1.6 billion
was spent to support 53 projects from 2005 to 2009.
2. National plan on nanoscience and technology
With the national plan in place, the national government has planned to establish
common core facilities and critical mass in China, so that R&D activity would be
facilitated in both academic area and industrial applications, thus speeding up the
match between academic research and industrial applications and linking the academia
and industry for creating innovative industrial applications.
(i) Green technology for printing plate based on nanomaterials
This is a process that enables directly exposure on printing plate based on
nanomaterials. The innovation of this green technology is that it is a simple, economical
and green process, which operates under light without any photosensitive coating. It
controls the nano/micro structures of the super-hydrophilic printing plate and modulates
the wettability of printing images. In China, if 50 per cent of the printing enterprises use
this technology, that will reduce more than 30,000 tonnes liquid pollution and save 300
tonnes of silver and tens of tonnes of aluminium each year.
(ii) Resistance on pollution-induced flashover by room temperature vulcanized
(RTV) silicon rubber coating
Pollution-induced flashover on electric transmission and transformation facilities is
one of the most serious troubles to the electricity industry. This technology enhances
the tensile property of silicon rubber via nano-silica particles and puncture voltage
reaches 350 kV. This bridges the gap between nano-scale particles and macro-scale
performance.
(iii) Coal-made gycol: Fundamental research and its industrialization
Glycol is a crucial chemical industrial raw material that in very short supply in China.
At present, it is produced mostly from petroleum. Worldwide output is about 18 million

41

tonnes/year, about one-third of which is required in China. However, the throughput in

China is only 1-1.2 million t/y. Since the discovery of oxidation and carboxidation coupling
of alcohol into oxalic ester in 1965, no successful industrialization has been reported.
Box 3.1: Examples of research outputs

Immuno-chromatography technology based on biological probe with

nanocrystalline
A set of technical platforms with China-owned intellectual property rights was created
for the rapid diagnosis of hepatitis and AIDS as the proposed national norm, making
China a leader in the world in this area. The sensitivity of the successfully developed
modified gold indicator paper for the detection of HBsAg had reached the standard
issued by the State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA).
Integrated system of scanning probe microscopy
The China-developed system had the full imaging and testing functions of both STM
and scanning force microscope (SFM) with full intellectual property rights. It offers a
new powerful tool for the study of structures and properties of materials in the micro/
nano-scale. The commercialization of the system has started.
Industrial application of the nanocrystalline diamond composite coatings
Various coated drawing moulds and abrasion-resistant parts and products were
developed based on the coating technology. This solved the major problems related
to the coating adhesion, coating uniformity and surface roughness control. These
moulds and parts were widely used in more than 70 enterprises of various industries
including electricity, communications and construction materials.
Functional polymers: nano-antimicrobial plastics
Addition of certain nanoparticles increases its physical and chemical characteristics
of materials. Antibacterial agents such as Ag+(ZnO)TiO2 are added to plastics to
make the polymer inhibit and eliminate bacteria. They not only keep the plastics
clean but also reduce cross-infection in use. The antibacterial effect is about 99 per
cent. Applications of these nano-antimicrobial plastics are in: toothbrush, food
packaging film, PP woven bags, tableware, refrigerator inner lining, the wheel of the
washing machine, etc. Bosafety evaluation of the materials has been conducted,
and clinical application and industrialization are underway.
Polymer-based special function nano-fibre and the products
The difficult problems of making functional discrete phase in nano-scale and evenly
distributed in the polymer fibres were resolved and the functionality and spinnability
were effectively unified for the first time. The technology and products were
commercialized at several enterprises in Shanghai with RMB 325 million of value
added increased. That promoted the development of the related enterprises at up-,
mid- and downstream of the industry chain around the core of functional fibre.
Transparent thermal insulation coatings or films
This water-borne system can decrease the indoor temperature to between 30F and
90F during summer and shield over 75 per cent of ultraviolet rays as well. It can be
directly coated onto the surface of any glass and dried at room temperature in 5 min
to form a thin film on the glass surface. Water-borne polymer latex can form 3D
(contd...)

42

Box 3.1: Examples of research outputs (contd...)

films, which not only display various vivid colours but also show excellent mechanical
performance. Such films can be used for structural coatings, or solvatochromic- or
mechanochromic-responsive coatings.
Purification system for air pollutants in highway-tunnel
The purification system for air pollutants in highway-tunnels has integrated
electrostatic de-dusting, catalytic oxidation of CO at room temperature and purification
technologies for THC/Nox. It can remove more than 90 per cent of micron-scale
suspended particles, and the purification efficiency of CO, THC and NOx is more
than 85 per cent, 60 per cent and 80 per cent, respectively. The nanoparticles with
high catalytic activity and the adsorption material with abundant nano-pore structure
can effectively solve the technical problems of catalytic oxidation of CO and
adsorption/purification of THC/NOx at room temperature. Taking tunnel construction
in Shanghai for example, the industrial added value is nearly RMB 2 billion when
fully carrying our treatment. The economic benefit will reach to hundreds of million
of yuan if this technology is generalized and applied.
Biomedical particles: the liposomal reagents
Lecithin and cholesterol are used to conform to the lipid bilayer. The particle size is
always less than 100 nm. Lisosomes are suitable for preservation. They help retain
the molecules hydrophilicity and lipotropy, and reduce the side effect and toxicity. On
the other hand, these have sustained release in vivo and can prolong drug affectivity.
The applications include:
z Doxorubicin: anticancer agent, sales planned in 2010;
z Amphotericin-B: used for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, planned launch
in 2011; and
z Vincristine: new anticancer drug, planned launch in 2012.
Chemical mechanical polishing slurry
They use homogeneous nanoparticles as oxidizing and other chemical agents to
reduce surface roughness into sub-nanometre level. The polished surface parameters
are: average roughness (Ra): 0.3-0.4 , average waviness (Wa) 0.5-0.6 , polishing
rate: >60 nm/min. The application areas are: polishing process for computer hard
disk, ultra large-scale integrated circuit (ULSI), optical glass, optical disk, crystal
MEMS. The industrialization test of the developed computer disk substrate slurry
has been conducted.
Lithium titanate as an anode for lithium-ion batteries
Using nanosized lithium titanate as anode material for lithium-ion batteries has
many advantages, such as excellent safety, good rate capability and long cycle life.
It is applied in energy storage batteries, which can store electric energy converted
by generating systems such as photovoltaic and wind power systems. It is also
applied in power batteries that can propel hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles.
The industrialization test of the nanosized lithium titanate has been conducted.
Cathode material with high power and capacity
Cathode material with high power and capacity for lithium ion cells was successfully
developed. The volume capability of the trial product reached 650 mAh/g, 117 per
cent higher than traditional non-nano materials.

43

Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter (FJIRSM) is one of the pioneers
in this field in China:
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

IV.

1983 Small-scale pilot plant for the catalyst for carbon monoxide (CO) catalysing
synthesis of oxalate, passing 1,004 hours of continuous life testing;
1993 Small-scale pilot plant for national 85 key project 200 ml catalyst passing
1,000 hours of catalyst life testing;
1994 Small-scale pilot plant for 2 litres catalyst for CO-gas catalysing synthesis
of methyl oxalate and oxalic acid;
2005 Cooperated with Shanghai jinmei Co. and set up a medium-sized plant for
oxalic acid 300 t/y, glycol 100 t/y and methyl oxalate 900 kg/d;
2006 Established Xiamen Jintan Co. as the R&D base for the catalyst;
2006 Organization of the plant for glycol at 10,000 t/y scale; and
2008 Set up the worlds first glycol plant of 1.2 million t/y scale.

COMMERCIALIZATION IN CHINA
At the end of 2004, there were more than 600 enterprises, most of them small, and 120
institutions involved in nanotechnology. The main products were nanopowders of oxides,
metals and their applications such as coatings, fibres, papers, ceramics, catalyst,
etc.
Figure 3.3: Way of industrial application, step-by-step

By using innovation to promote the emerging

direction of IT & BT industries
By using nanotechnology innovation to
establish new manufacturing industries for
nanomaterials and nanodevices
By using nanotechnology innovation to
upgrade the more conventional industries

V.

2015

2010

Present

CONCLUDING REMARKS
The nanoscience and nanotechnology research community in China has made
remarkable advances across the R&D spectrum from fundamental scientific research
to studies into the potential societal implications of new nanotechnologies. Definitely,
China still has a long way to go to improve the overall competitiveness of its nanoscience
and nanotechnology enterprises, but all visible signs suggest that it will become a
leading contributor to the field in the coming years.

44

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (II)

COMMERCIALIZATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY
BY
MS. LERWEN LIU,
MANAGING DIRECTOR, NANO GLOBE PTE. LTD., SINGAPORE

45

I.

ASIA NANO FORUM

A. Introduction
The Asia Nano Forum (ANF) is a network organization founded in May 2004. ANF
became a registered society in Singapore in October 2007. Its secretariat is located at
the Singapore A*STAR Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE). It
consists of three working groups: Education, Standardization, and Risk Management,
Infrastructure and Resources. Previous ANF Summits were held in Phuket (2004),
Melbourne (2005), Hong Kong (2006), Kuala Lumpur (2007), Abu Dhabi (2008) and
Taipei (2009). ANF supported and co-organized Asia Nano Camp 2008 (Japan) and
Asia Nano Camp 2009 (Taiwan Province of China).
ANFs mission is to promote the research and development (R&D) and industrialization
in nanotechnology that educationally, socially, environmentally and economically benefit
each economy by fostering the international network and collaboration.
The objectives of ANF are:
1. To foster nanotechnology in the region by creating mechanisms to share information,
human and physical resources and expertise;
2. To coordinate joint investment in and mutual access to major infrastructure by
member economies;
3. To initiate, promote and manage cooperative scientific and technology research
projects within the member economies;
4. To support regional economic and environmental development through joint projects
addressing major regional issues with an emphasis on support of developing and
emerging economies;
5. To enhance public awareness and education of nanotechnology and associated
social, environmental, health and economic issues;
6. To act as an advocacy group for nanotechnology in the region and for adequate
regional representation of nanotechnology at global forums; and
7. To promote and coordinate standardization and safety of nanotechnology concepts
and measurements.
ANF has 15 member economies: Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Islamic
Republic of Iran, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan
Province of China, Thailand, Viet Nam and UAE. The ANF network is coordinated by
government organization, leading R&D organization or a national nanotech coordination
office in each participating economy.

B. Events organized by ANF

1. Asia Nanotech Workshop for Young Scientists
The workshop, organized in 2009, aimed to raise passion for nanotechnology among
youngsters. The participants, aged 25-35 years, had excellence in academic research,
and entrepreneurial spirit, skills and experience. The workshop was designed to impart
strong organization and communication skills to the participants.

46

Table 3.2: Members of Asia Nano Forum

Country

Member organization

Australia

Australia Research Council Nanotechnology Network &

Australian Nano Business Forum

China

National Centre for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST),

SINANO

Hong Kong

Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials Institute (NAMI)

India

Advanced Research Centre International (ARCI)

Indonesia

Indonesian Institute of Sciences

Iran

Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council (INIC)

Japan

National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology

(AIST), National Institute of Materials Science (NIMS)

Republic of Korea

Korea Institute of Science &Technology Information (KISTI) and

Korean Nanotechnology Researchers Society (KoNTRA)

Malaysia

Academy of Sciences Malaysia

New Zealand

MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and

Nanotechnology

Singapore

Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE)

Taiwan province
of China

National Science and Technology Program for Nanoscience and

Nanotechnology

Thailand

National Nanotechnology Centre

Viet Nam

Institute of Materials Science Viet Nam Academy of Science

and Technology (VAST)

United Arab Emirates Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research

2. Asia Nanotech Forum, Nanotech Camp 2009 (ANC2009)

The organizers and the sponsors of the Camp were the National Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology Programme (NNP) Office and the Advanced Nanotechnology Education
Programme (ANEP) from the Taiwan province of China. It was held from 28 September
to 12 October 2009, in Taiwan Province of China. The programme schedule contained
lectures (basic and application in microelectronics, displays, materials and
instrumentation), and site visits to nanotech companies, industry centres and
corporations in Taipei, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan and Hualien.
3. Malaysia Nanotech 2009
The conference attracted over 200 participants from government, research institutes,
industry and the public. Conference topics were mostly nanomaterials synthesis,
characterization, nanotech risk and safety (nanotoxicity). Overseas participation mostly
came from Austria and Islamic Republic of Iran. The Austrian discussion mostly focused
on nanotoxicity and nanobiotechnology. Highlights of the Iranian participation include
the Iranian students in Malaysia and Iranian company NanoPac Persia Company (both
technical presentation and exhibition). Exhibition participation was mostly from
instrument companies, trading/distributor companies and local universities.

47

Nanotech Malaysia has been held annually since 2007. The Malaysian government
will be making a statement on nanotech, which will highlight the initial planning of the
government to pursue intensive development in the nanotech industry. It has funded up
to M$ 124.3 million in nanotechnology area (under the 9th Malaysia Plan). A National
Innovation Centre and a network of Centres of Innovation Excellence are to be set up
next year to allow faster commercialization. The industry will provide fast feedback to
the research work. Nanotechnology has been announced by Malaysias Prime Minister
to be one of the growth engines for the countrys new economic policy. A Nanotech
Directorate has been put into in operation. The Malaysia Nanotechnology Association
(MNA) has become official since September 2009. MNA is a platform for communication
among scientists, researchers and industry players and for facilitating networking with
the local community and international counterparts.
Figure 3.4: National nanotechnology initiative timeline in Asia-Pacific
EU 6th Framework (2002-2006)

EU 7th Framework (2007-2013)

Taiwan NNP Phase I (2002-2006)

Thailand NANOTECH established
Hong Kong INMT
Viet Nam NIIP

Phase II (2009-2014)

NAMI (2006-2011)
Singapore A*STAR Programme

Japan ATP 250 M USD/10Y

Indonesia NII Roadmap

Singapore NNP expected
Indonesia NNP expected

1992

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

RUSNANO established (2007-2017)

Indonesia NNNDP started
9th Malaysia Plan (2006-2010)-NNIM
Australia NanoVic and ARC COE

NNS (2007-2011)

India Nano Mission (2007)

India NSTI
Rep. of Korea KNNI Phase I (2001-2005) Phase II (2006-2015)
New Zealand MDIAMN
Phase II (2007-2014)
China 10th Five Year Plan
11th Five Year Plan (2006-2010)
Japan 2nd Basic Plan-NMP
3nd Basic Plan (2006-2010)
United States NNI programme set up
United States NNI announced (2000)

48

Figure 3.5: Government funding for nanotechnology in Asia-Pacific (2003-2007)

6000
4,942

5000

US$ million
4000
3000
2000
1,331
1000
341 300

60

150

t
us

ra

lia
C

hi

na

on

Ko

ng

In

di

In

e
on

44

5
si

a
Ja

pa

re

o
fK

.o

ep

311 447

42

20

re
nd
an and
am
la
po aiw
N
il
a
a
t
a
T
e
Ze ing
M
Th
Vi
S
ew
N

40

a
al

ys

ia

Figure 3.6: A comparison in public funding (2003-2007)

United States
US$ 5,618 million

Asia
US$ 8,012 million

European Union
US$ 7,689 million

Figure 3.7: Government funding for nanotechnology among three largest economies
1600
1400
1200
1000

Germany

800

Japan

600

United States
Japan (realistic)

400
200
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

49

Figure 3.8: Per capita government funding for nanotechnology among

three largest economies
10
9
8
7
6

Germany

Japan

United States

Japan (realistic)

2
1
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Table 3.3: Nanotechnology R&D and commercialization highlights

Country

Electronics
technology

Biomedical
technology

Australia

Si-based transistor,
supercapacitor

Bionic ear implants

(biocompatible),
nano-structured
silicon for drug
delivery

China

MEMS technology

Hong Kong

Displays, electronic
packaging

India

Nanoelectronics

Clean
technologies
(energy, water
& environment)

Consumer
goods

Sunscreen lotion
+
biosensors,
biomedical devices

Indonesia

Drinking water
+

Japan

Digital camera, cell

phone, DRAM,
device manufacture

DNA/gene chip,
anti-cancer drug
delivery

Malaysia

OLED, single electron

transistor

biosensors

New Zealand

Sensors, interconnects, optoelectronic

materials growth

Biochip for cell

imaging,
diagnostics and
drug delivery
(nanoparticles)

50

Textile

Food &
agriculture
Thin film solar
cells, fuel cells
Biofertilizer

Table 3.3: Nanotechnology R&D and commercialization highlights (contd..)

Country

Singapore

Electronics
technology

OLED, nanoimprint

Republic of Korea Flash memory,

conductive ink & film
Taiwan province
of China

Biomedical
technology

nanotoxicology,
fibrous scaffold,
biodegradable
stents &
nanomedicine

Clean
technologies
(energy, water
& environment)

Consumer
goods

Organic solar
cells, fuel cells,
membrane
filtration

Pharmaceuticals

Antibacterial
powders,
antiglare coating

TFT-LCD panel

Flexible speaker

Thailand
Viet Nam

Textile

Flexible polymer
solar cells

Scents sensor,
cosmeceuticals

EM-shielding,
conductive paint

4. NANOPAC Persian Company

Table 3.4: NANOPAC

Place of origin &

year of incorporation

Iran, 2005

Number of employee About 40

Core capability

Nanoparticles production to product integration (hybrid of

silica & titania, nanosilver solution)

Role in value chain

Product manufacturer

Global activities

Distribution in the Middle East and Asia

Applications

Air filter (home, fridge), anti-bacteria bed-sheets, selfcleaning & anti-mould paint, hand sanitizer, anti-bacterial
agricultural application (e.g. chicken farm)

Business model

Produce the entire value chain and sell the products at

affordable price (low profit margin but maximizing the
revenue)

Revenue

Sold 250,000 units of nanofilter in the first 2 months of

product launch

51

Box 3.2: Examples of research outputs

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

In Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), researchers synthesize low-cost silica aerogel
(the lightest solid). The raw material is rice husk and the resulting product is called
Maerogel. It is absolutely inert, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. The process
cost is reduced by as high as 80 per cent of the current aerogel production cost. For
a certain period, it was licensed out exclusively to Gelanggang Kencana Pte. Ltd. It
will be in operation early in 2010 and the first commercial plan is to produce 5 t/y of
maerogel.
Viet Nam Nanotech Highlights
Viet Nam focuses on clean-tech efficient lighting such as LED, solar cell and water
treatment. Oxide materials (oxides of zin, titanium and iron) are for lighting, solar
applications, photocatalytic and cancer treatment. They use metal nanoparticles
(or copper/silver) for agriculture application. Nanotechnology is excellent for oil and
gas application. Ho Chih Ming University Nanotechnology Laboratory is engaged in
MEMS R&D capability building.
HTP LAB
This lab produces short CNTs using solid phase. They have several important
customers such as Hitachi hi-Tech (for battery application) and Goodyear (ordered
700 t of CNT). One of their major partners is NASA, which has invested US$200,000
in the project for high-efficiency solar cell. The capacity of this is 1 kg/h, 100 nm long
CNT.

C. Nanotechnology education and research highlights

z

52

Taiwan Province of China A Nanotechnology Symphony book published for

chemistry, physics and biology for education in high schools. The Nano BlasterMan
is a 3D comic book for elementary and middle schools. There are many Nana
and Nono animated cartoon videos to educate younger kids. In 2004, the first
nanotechnology industry conference and exhibition was held. Launched Nanomark
to regulate nanotech products. ANF is represented as a liaison member (ISO/
TC229 and IEC/TC113). US$60 million is allocated (9 per cent phase II national
nanotech programme budget) for health and risk issues.
China In 2005, the Chinese Society of Micro-Nano technology (CSMNT) organized
the ChinaNano2005 research conference. In 2006, Chinese International Nano
Electrical and Mechanical System Network (CINN) was established. In 2007, the
first MEMSIC Cup was organized in order to motivate university students in creating
innovative micro/nano electromechanical systems (M/NEMS) devices and
applications. In 2009, they held the first International Contest of Applications in
Nano-micro Technologies.
Japan In November 2001, Nikkei Nanotechnology and Nikkei Nanobusiness, two
Internet-based nanotechnology business magazines, were started. Since 2002,
an annual trade show of nanotechnology (Nanotech 200X) is being held. From
2004, Asia Nano Forum is being hosted by Japan. In August 2004, Nanotechnology
and Society open forum was launched. There is cross-ministerial initiative in

z
z

z
z
z
z

addressing societal implication of nanotechnology and responsible nanotechnology

R&D as a priority area in third S&T basic plan. Nanotechnology Business Creation
Initiative (NBCI) coordinates and facilitates the development of nanotech industry
standard. In 2008, the first Asia Nano Camp was held with 35 top young Ph.D.
students and researchers below 30 years in order to educate and promote the
advancement of nanotechnology.
Hong Kong In 2004, held the first nanotechnology industry conference and
exhibition.
Viet Nam The Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) set clear goals of
higher education in Viet Nam in the Education Development Strategy for 20012010. In 2003, MOET launched M.Sc. and Ph.D. programmes in nanotechnology.
Thailand In 2005, B.Eng. programme in nano-engineering was introduced by
Chulalongkorn University.
Indonesia Nano-Edu books and Nano-Edu kits for nanotechnology education
were published.
Republic of Korea In October 2007, the nanotechnology standardization
development road map was launched.
Singapore In 2007, A*STAR Centre for Nanometrology Excellence was established
and in 2009, nanotox initiative was launched, led by the Economic Development
Board.

D. Summary and recommendations

1. Nanotechnology has become priority R&D area worldwide since 2000.
2. Commercialization is accelerating, specially this year with exciting application
seen in advanced materials, energy, environment, automobile, transportation,
security, water treatment, agriculture etc.
3. The developed world is racing to take leadership in commercialization to create
economic impact at the same time creating clean technologies for sustainable
development.
4. The developing countries should focus on basic research, education and pursue
international collaboration and transfer-ready clean technologies to access clean
energy, environment and water to improve quality of life.
5. Meanwhile, strengthen public-private partnership to accelerate the commercialization
of R&D, and adopt green manufacturing process and clean technologies to ensure
sustainable development.

II.

NANOGLOBE
NanoGlobe is the leading nanotech consultancy based in Singapore and is providing
valuable services to corporate, entrepreneur, government and research institution clients
for strategic support of R&D commercialization and internationalization; business
development; incubator services to local start-ups via fund raising, recruitment, project
management, IP management, marketing and partnership; and advising international
companies on expansion throughout Asia and locating business and R&D in Singapore
and other strategic locations.
NanoGlobes mission is to promote global and sustainable development of
nanotechnology to benefit mankind.

53

NanoGlobes tasks are:

z
z
z

54

To promote and facilitate regional cooperation in nanotechnology R&D, education

and resource sharing, standard and risk management;
To create a one-stop information portal of nanotechnology in Singapore;
To operate a platform that allows interaction and networking among players from
complete value chain of nanotechnology in Singapore to collaborate and accelerate
commercialization of R&D;
To summarize the efforts of Asian economies in pursuing nanotechnology and
their determination to be world leaders in the industry and economic development
in the 21st century;
To provide an overview of the latest nanotechnology policy, infrastructure, research
and development highlights and business trends in 13 economies: Australia, China,
Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand,
Singapore, Taiwan Province of China, Thailand and Viet Nam;

DISCUSSION 2
After the presentations, the speakers had a detailed discussion. Mr. K. Ramanathan
raised a question on whether the developing countries should focus on education and
basic sciences or on accessing and industrial application of nanotechnology. He was
of the opinion that initially, developing countries must focus on the latter part to generate
revenue and benefit from the nanotechnology. Thereafter, they could focus on science
that add value to technologies applied in their industries, and on basic sciences to
develop new nanotechnologies.
Another point raised was that the presentations did not contain any example that
could help assess nanotechnologys impact on society. While agreeing with the point,
the presenters replied that their presentations were giving an overview of the technology,
without going into specific details. They said the point raised would be addressed in
another context during the workshop.
Mr. Mogyorosi mentioned that currently the labour cost is the highest in the United
States but the European region is not far behind either. East European countries have
an advantage in terms of labour cost, but they are also getting more expensive in this
field. The same trend can be observed also in China and other emerging Asian countries,
although they are still much cheaper than any other countries in the world.
Mr. N. Srinivasan commented during the discussions that before countries went in for
any application of nanotechnology, they have to develop institutional capabilities to
understand and able to carry out assessement of safety and quality by developing
and/adopting standards, and impact on environment and health. In this regard, Mr.
Mogyorosi drew attention of the participats to his presentation indicating the importance
the European Union accord on this issue. Mr. Srinivasan said the countries of the
Asia-Pacific region needed to learn and internalize that aspect to gain competitive
advantage.

55

56

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (III)

NATIONAL OVERVIEW OF NANOTECHNOLOGY: STATUS AND
MEASURES TO PROMOTE INNOVATION
BY
MR. VERANJA KARUNARATNE,
SRI LANKA INSTITUTE OF NANOTECHNOLOGY (SLINTEC),
SRI LANKA

57

I.

INTRODUCTION
The economy of Sri Lanka is growing it was 70th in the list of top 100 economies of
the world. In 2008, the GDP rate was US$40.7 billion and per capita income was
US$2,014. Sri Lanka is very rich in natural resources such as tea (major income:
US$01270.5 million), rubber (US$125 million), coconut (US$171.1 million) and other
agriculture products (US$286.9 million). The major incomes are from tourism (US$0.8
billion), overseas employment (US$2 billion) and garment (US$3.2 billion). In 2008, Sri
Lankas imports were crude oil (1853,000 t), refined petroleum products (2,145,000 t)
and liquefied petroleum gas (144,000 t). The total expenditure in this regard was
US$3,327 million.
The expenditure in product imports for industry was US$12.5 million, with the paint
industry importing 500 t/y titanium dioxide (TiO2). The income from raw material exports
was US$8 million, with 80,000 t/y ilmenite export. The potential revenue from the
export of 40,000 t TiO2 was US$100 million.
Table 3.5: Market price of titanium products

Titanium products

Market price
US$/tonne

Ilmenite (FeTiO )

Value creation index

90-100

2500-2700

25

25000-27000

250

Titanium dioxide (TiO )

2

Nano-TiO (Titanium dioxide)

2

Ilmenite : Rutile (TiO ) : Titanium dioxide (TiO ) : Nano TiO 1:6:25:250

2

The vision of Sri Lanka is to enhance the quality and competitiveness of the industry
and economy by capturing opportunities through the nations developments and
innovations in nanotechnology in an expeditious manner. The aim is to develop a new
resource- and knowledge-based economy.
The mission is to provide an enabling environment to promote industry-targeted research,
development and commercialization of nanotechnology, to establish a world-class
research centre with state-of-the-art equipment and support facilities, to undertake
capacity building to produce competent personnel, and to promote incubation units to
take science into industrial applications. Sri Lanka wants to ensure that its national
resource bases are protected and nurtured to enable it to benefit from new developments.
The countrys aim is to provide opportunities for global business with quality processes
and other product developments and to situate the country as an international destination
for research and development (R&D) in nanotechnology.
Sri Lankas nanotechnology policy elements are:
z
z
z
z

58

World-class environment;
Innovative products and services;
IP development & services;
Nanoscience park;

z
z
z
z

II.

Human resource development;

Private-public partnership;
Responsible development of nanotechnology; and
Regulatory framework.

INSTITUTIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Figure 3.9: Policy implementation

National Nanotechnology Board

National Nanotechnology Committee (NSF)

Research instututes, SLINTEC, universities

Nanoscience Park

59

60

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (IV)

SOME ASPECTS OF NANOMESOPOROUS MATERIALS
BY
MR. KHOSROW ROSTAMI,
IRANIAN RESEARCH ORGANIZATION FOR
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (IROST),
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN

61

I.

INTRODUCTION
Nanotech has influenced major industries, such as aerospace, energy, life sciences
and electronics, and these industries are poised to see more disruptive changes from
nanotech in the near future.
Nanoparticles are applied in the following areas:
1. Power/energy
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Hydrogen storage (e.g. using metal hydrides);

Dye-sensitized solar cells (e.g. using titanium dioxide);
Fuel cell catalysts (e.g. platinum in proton exchange membrane fuel cells);
Improved anode and cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells;
Automotive catalytic converters;
Increased efficiency of hydrogen generation from water (solar); and
Catalysts for gas-to-liquid technologies, coal gasification technologies, biodiesel
and other synthetic fuels.

2. Healthcare/medical
z
z
z
z
z

Targeted drug delivery/cancer treatments;

Bone growth promoters;
Biocompatible coatings for implants;
Sunscreens (e.g. using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide)/cosmetics; and
Biolabelling and detection (e.g. using gold).

3. Environmental
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

II.

Water treatment (photocatalyst treatments, titanium dioxide);

Self-cleaning glass (using titanium dioxide-based nanostructured coatings);
Anti-reflection coatings;
Sanitary ware;
Soil remediation (e.g. using iron);
Controlled delivery of herbicides and pesticides; and
Nanopolymer for desalination, wastewater treatment and water treatment.

NANOPOROUS SILICA PARTICLE

Nanoporous silica was synthesized in the year 1992 by Mobil Corp. and named as
Mobil Corp. Material-41 (MCM-41). The nanoparticle had a uniform hexagonal array of
pores of 1.5 nm and 10 nm. Six years later, researchers at the University of California
in Santa Barbara produced silica nanoparticles with much larger sizes (4.6-30 nm
pores). The material was named Santa Barbara Amorphous type material, or SBA-15.
In 2007, Nandiyanto and others of Hiroshima University invented a new type of particle
having pore size of 30 nm. The team produced particles with controllable pore size
from 3 to 15 nm and outer diameter from 20 to 100 nm, and it was named Hiroshima
Mesoporous Material (HMM).

62

The sources of silica is tetramethylorthosilicate (TMOS) and/or tetraethylorthosilicate

(TEOS) that are regarded as tetraesters of silicic acid [Si(OH)4]. The inexpensive
inorganic silicate as a starting material is aqueous sodium silicate, water glass, with
a price and order of magnitude lower than that of alkoxides (silicic acid esters are often
referred to as alkoxides). Silicic acid is a weak acid and it exists only in dilute aqueous
solutions. It polymerizes very easily and has never been isolated. It is not soluble in
water, but can be dissolved in a mixture of water and a water-miscible organic solvent.
Nanoporous silica size is according to IUPAC notation: microporous materials have
pore diameters of less than 2 nm; macroporous materials have pore diameters of
greater than 50 nm. Nowadays pore diameter is greater than 50 nm. The mesoporous
category thus lies in the middle, between 2 and 50 nm. A nanoparticle may have a
diameter greater than 5 nm, a pore volume between 0.3 and 1 cm3g-1, a surface area
between 750 and 1,029 m2g-1 and macroscopic diameters between 1 and 30 nm and
on the larger side 1 and 10 m.
The shape of nano-silica porous material can be short and long fibres: gyroid and
discoid; hollow and solid spheres; films or hierarchical spheres.
Silica nanoporous materials have very high surface area per unit weight (750-1,029 m2/
g). They are rigid, and do not swell in solution where many polymeric material swelling
is found in organic solvents. Swelling can lead to maldistribution and result in loss of
performance in packed columns or stirred tank. The surface chemistry of silica with
surface silanol (hydroxyl) groups provide anchor points for further surface modification.
Silica is considered safe for food and pharmaceutical applications by FDA.
Nanoparticles exhibit completely new or improved properties based on specific
characteristics (size, distribution, morphology, phase, etc.) when compared with larger
particles of the bulk material they are made of. They have very good mechanical
properties, chemical properties, thermal properties, optical properties, electrical
properties, magnetic properties and specific surface area. For the coating of silicate
nanoparticles, a key issue to consider is finding the appropriate chemistry to make
the silicates compatible with different polymers.
Table 3.6: Promising features of nanoporous silica for biadsorption and separations
Property

Potential benefit for adsorption processes

Tunable pore size

Pore size can be tailored for macromolecules

High surface area and pore volume

(750-1029 m2g and 0.3, 1cm3g-1)

High adsorption capacity

Uniform pore structure

exclusion limit, shape selectivity

High capacity for solutes close to the size-

Bimodal pore structure

Enhances adsorption kinetic

Silanol groups on surfaces

Ability to functionalize surfaces

Rigidity

Minimal swelling, easier column operation,

reduced product losses

63

Table 3.7: Adsorption of biological molecules on nanoporous silica materials solutes

and nanoporous supports used
Solutes

Adsorbents

Proteins and polypeptides

Cytochrome C, Trypsin, Papin, Peroxidase

MCM-41

Contalbumin, Ovalbumin, Trypsin, Inhibitor

protein

SBA-15, MCF (both APTS-silylated)

Cythocrome C

MCM-41, CNS, MPS-F127

Cythocrome C

MCM-41, MCM-48, MCM-41 (Al/Si),

Nb-TMS1

Cythocrome C

MCM-48, SBA-15, Nb-TMS4

Horseradish proxidase, Subtilisin

MCM-48, SBA-15

FMS-16, MCM-41, SBA-15, MCM-41,

Lysozyme, Trypsin

MCM-41, trimethylsilane modified

MCM-41

Nanosilicate material advantages are high surface area, large pore diameter and volume,
and regular channel type structure. Disadvantages are that organic chemicals are
required, the chemicals used are expensive, and more time is needed to produce,
verify and validate the sample.
A few important instruments for nanomaterial analysis are:
z
z
z
z
z

Scanning probe microscopy (SPM);

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used for the pore size and surface
characteristics;
BET surface area analyser, using inert nitrogen gas, can give pore size and diameter;
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM); and
Fluorescence spectroscopy.

Some measures required for advancing are: bold programme establishment, recruiting
high-profile nanoscience technologists from developing countries, developing a
collaborative productive nanotechnology ecosystem, creative applied development
centres focused on nanoscale products for future advances and integrated basic
research agenda to maintain the gap. Further:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

64

Nanosilicate material synthesis is pH dependent.

Mole ratio of silicate-to-polymer block is important.
Proper emulsion type and concentration is required.
Autoclaving duration and temperature are governed.
Oven rate of heating, holding and cooling are controlled.
Characterization of material obtained should be done with proper instrument.
Proper washing and drying before using are required.
The material can be stored in an organic chemical for future application.

III.

NANOMATERIALS INDUSTRY STATUS

Nanotech industry is moving from research to production with over 500 consumer
nano-products. Limitations in the dispersion of nanoparticles and the decrease in the
production cost of nanotubes would be solved shortly. The scale-up of multi-wall carbon
nanotube production has led to a dramatic price decrease (Arkema, Bayer Material
Sciences, Showa Denko), down to US$150/kg for semi-industrial applications. With
commercialization, a mid-term price target of US$45/kg is forecasted.
Various types of nanoparticles are available for cancer therapy metallic matrixes,
ceramic matrixes, polymeric matrixes and other nanoparticles.
Table 3.8: Nanomaterials in the food industry
Company

Product

Nancor

Bottles, cartons ad films containing day nanocomposites that act as

a barrier to that passage or gasses or odours

Bayer Polymers

Plastic film containing delicate nanoparticles that provides a barriers

to gasses or moisture

AquaNova

Nanoparticles for delivery of vitamins or other nutrients in food and

beverages without affecting the taste or appearance
Table 3.9: Nanomaterials in fuel cells

Company

Product

Advantage

PolyFuel

Engineered hydrocarbon membranes

Improved performance over conventional

membranes

Pacific Fuel Cell

Catalyst with platinum nanoparticles

embedded on carbon nanotubes

Reduces platinum usage and increases

catalyst lifetime

Aerogel Composite Catalyst with platinum nanoparticles

embedded in a carbon aerogel

Reduces platinum usage

Quantum Sphere

Non-platinum catalyst

Reduces cost

NanoDynamics

Solid oxide fuel cell that uses propane as

a fuel

Reduces size and weight

MTI Micro

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs)

Minimizes moving parts, reduces cost,

size and weight

Medis

Direct liquid fuel cell (DLFC) with simplified

internal structure

Reduces cost

UltraCell

DMFCs that have an extra catalyst to convert

methanol to hydrogen before reaching the
core of the fuel cell

Increases power density and cell voltage

EDV Ovonics

Hydrogen fuel thanks using metal hydrides

as the storage media

Reduces size, weight and pressure for

storing hydrogen

Headwaters

Nanocatalysts used in the conversion of coal

to liquid fuels and in the upgrading of lowgrade crude such as crude from shale oil

Additional raw material, coal for

producing petrol, diesel and other
liquid fuels

Refinery Science

Nanocatalyst used in upgrading low grade

crude

Making low-grade crude oil such as from

oil sands, usable for producing petrol or
diesel
(contd...)

65

Table 3.9: Nanomaterials in fuel cells (contd...)

Company

Product

Advantage

Oxonica

Nanoparticle cerium oxide catalyst for diesel

fuel

Increased mileage and reduced air

pollution

H OL

Nanoclusters which helps petrol and diesel

fuels burn more completely by breaking the
fuel into smaller droplets

Increased mileage and reduced air

pollution

Catlin

Nanospere based catalyst that reduces cost

of producing biodiesel

Producing diesel from vegetable oil

Iogen

Enzyme based process for conversion of

cellulouse to ethanol

Ethanol production from low-cost

material such as wood chips, corn
stalks and grass

Agrivida

Bioengineered plants that produce enzymes to Ethanol production using corn stalks
simplify the conversion of cellulous to ethanol

Table 3.10: Nanomaterials in medicine

Company

Product

CytImmune

Gold nanoparticles for targeted delivery of drugs to tumours

Nurcryst

Antimicrobial wound dressing using silver nanocrystals

Nanobiotix

Nanoparticles for targeted delivery of drugs to diseased cells

Oxonica

Disease identification using gold nanoparticles (nanotags)

Nanotherapeutics

Nanoparticles for improving the performance of drug delivery

by oral, inhaled or nasal methods

NanoBio

Antimicrobial nanoemulsions for nasal delivery to fight viruses

(such as flu and cold) and bacteria

Novavax

Drug delivery through the skin using micellar nanoparticles

and oral drug delivery with property structures called
Novasomes

Invitrogen

Qdots for medical imaging

Nanospectra

AuroShell particles (nanoshells) for thermal destruction of

cancer tissue

BioDelivery Sciences

Targeted oral drug delivery to diseased cells using a

nanocrystalline structure called cochleate

The main nano producers are: Advanced Nano, Ahwahnee Technology, Altana BYK
Chemie, ApNano, Arkema, Armor Holding (BAE Systems), BASF, Bayer Material
Science, Becker Acroma, BMW, Bucky USA, Cabot, Carbolex, Carbon Solutions,
Clariant, Cnano Technology, Daimler Chrysler, Dendritic Nanotechnologies, Dow, Draka
Cable, Dupont Air Product Easton Sports, EKA chemicals, Elementis Specialties,
Evonik Degussa, Fujitsu, GE Plastics, General Motors Corp, Genthe-X-Coating,
Holmenkol Sport-Technologies GmbH & Co, Hyperion Catalysis, Iljin Nanotech, InMat,
Kabelwerk Eupen, Laviosa, LG, LOreal, LyondellBasell, Mitsubishi Corp, Mitsui Carbon
Nanotech, Motorola, Nanocor, Nanocyl, Nanogate, Nanolab, Nanoledge, Nanophase,
Nanoresins, Nanostructured and Amorphous Materials (NanoAmor), Nano-X, Natural
Nano, NEC, Nexans, Nitto Denko, Nissan Chemical, NTC GmbH, Nyacol, Oxonica,
PolyOne, PPG, Procter & Gamble, PSA, Pyrograph Products, Quantum dots, Raymor

66

Industries, Renault, Rhodia, Rockwood Specialties, Rohm & Haas, Rosseter, Samsung,
Shenzen Nano Tech Port, Showa Denko Inorganic Materials, Southern Clays Products,
SouthWest NanoTechnologies, Sun Nanotech, TDA Research, Thomas Swan, Toray,
Umicore, Unidym, Unilever, WR Grace and Zyvex.

A. Carbon nanotubes
CNTs, a type of fullerene, have potential in fields such as nanotechnology, electronics,
optics, materials science, and architecture. They have unique electrical properties,
extraordinary strength and efficiency in heat conduction They are used in clothes
(waterproof tear-resistant textiles), solar cells, superconductors, ultra-capacitors,
transistors, air pollution filters, hydrogen storage and water filters.
The main CNT producers are Arkema, Bayer Material Sciences and Showa Denko.
The production cost is US$150/kg at present and may further decline to US$45/kg
after full scale-up.

B. Silver nanopowder
They cover about 50 per cent of the market. These are white goods used in washing
machines, refrigerators, air-conditioners, air purifiers and vacuum cleaners (Samsung).
They are used in daily life, for example, in clothes (socks, underwear and as antibacterial
washing detergent Silver Nano Health System) and medicines (as antiseptic and a
disinfectant infections wound). It has approval from the United States Food and Drug
Administration (FDA).

C. Metallic nanoparticles
Gold is absolutely bio-compatible. Gold nanoparticles are used for diagnosis of diseases
like cancer marker for prostate cancer. The effect is based on immunochromatography
prostate-specific antigen immunochromatographic test strips. Ag/SiO2 core shell
nanoparticles are cancer markers.

D. Magnetic nanoparticles for MRI

Nanoparticles such as superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) and ultrasmall
superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) have a reaction to magnetic force. They are
potential contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and heating mediators
for cancer therapy (hyperthermia). In the target tissue or organ, there is high-level
accumulation of nanotoxicity, biocompatibility and injectability. The iron oxide surface
is coated with a polymer.

E. Nanopolymeric material
Galactose-conjugated fluorescent nanoparticles are used for the identification of live
liver cancer cells. Polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLNs) are used for enhanced
treatment of multi-drug-resistant breast cancer and polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)

67

nanoparticles system is used for enhanced delivery of antigens to dendritic cells. The
development of gelatin nanoparticles with biotinylated epithelial growth factor (bEGF)
is for conjugation for lung cancer targeting.
Plastic membrane is able to bring down the cost of carbon dioxide (CO2) capture. The
aim is modification of surface properties of the polypropylene to make it as water
repellent as Teflon.
Polypropylene membrane gas absorption (MGA) system would make new natural gas
fields with high CO2 content more economically and environmentally viable. Polypropylene
carbon capture system is due to be tested next year at a pilot plant that will process
25 t/d of CO2.

68

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (V)

OVERVIEW OF THE STATUS OF NANOTECHNOLOGY
IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA
BY
MR. SANG KI JEONG,
RESEARCH FELLOW, KOREA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY EVALUATION AND PLANNING (KISTEP),
REPUBLIC OF KOREA

69

I.

NATIONAL POLICY HISTORY

Since the announcement of the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) in the United
States by the Clinton administration, major developed countries have been intensifying
nanotech research activities on a national basis in order to take the leadership in the
nanotech development area.
In the Republic of Korea, the National Science and Technology Council established
the Nanotech Development Plan in July 2001 and prepared a 10-year implementation
programme for nanotechnology R&D and industrialization to advance into the best five
countries in nanotech area by 2010. In order to meet this goal and contribute effectively
to the Korea National Nanotech Initiative (KNNI), a variety of national R&D programmes
have been launched.
Table 3.11: Status of nanotechnology in the Republic of Korea

Year 2001

Year 2005

Policy

National NT Master Plan (2001)

National Level Committee (2001)

Law of NT R&D facilitation (2002)

Detailed regulations (2003)
Revising 1st master plan (2006)

R&D Investment

1,052 billion won

2.772 billion won

Skilled experts

1,015 people

3,900 (2004) increase more than 3 times

Private companies

78 (venture: 33)

127 (venture: 80)

University, Education

3 (related departments)

31 (increase more than 10 times)

SCI papers

408 (world ranking: 8th)

1,128 (2008)

USA patent

68 (1976-2002) world ranking: 9th)

37 per year (5th)

Technology level

25% (compared to USA)

66%

(Source: Korea Nanotechnology Annual, 2005)

(Source: Lux Research, 2006)

70

y
Si

p
ga

or

e
A

t
us

ra

lia

a
an
ad
pe ion
an
o
r ss
C
Eu mi
m
Co

a
in
Ch

1.43

1.44

2.07

d
e
ite m
nc
Un do Fra
ng
Ki

us

0.05

an

0.12

m
er

0.82

el
ra
Is

0.83

.
s
lic
an
ov
te
ub rea
ta
pr ina Jap
p
S
e
a n Ch
R K o ted
i w of
of
ni
Ta
U

2.24

2.77

4.42

5.15

5.43

5.61

6.90

7.33

Figure 3.10: Per capita investment by country (in US$)

a
di
In

si

Figure 3.11: Analysis of R&D expenditure in 2006 (in million US$)

250

200

150

100

50

0
Universities

National
institutes

SMEs

Large
companies

Others

Table 3.12: Government R&D investment on nanotechnology per cent: rate of increase
Year

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2008

Nation
Repub. of Korea

88 (100%)

177 (201%)

195 (225%)

238 (270%)

274 (311%)

527 (599%)

United States

465 (100%)

697 (150%)

862 (185%)

991 (213%)

1.081 (232%)

Japan

465 (100%)

720 (155%)

800 (172%)

900 (194%)

1.000 (215%)

European Union

225 (100%)

400 (178%)

650 (289%)

950 (422%)

1.000 (444%)

Others

550 (145%)

550 (145%)

800 (211%)

900 (237%)

1.015 (276%)

Total

1.535 (100%)

2.367 (154%)

3.122 (203%)

3.741 (244%)

4.311 (269%)

(Source: MOST Action Plan for Nanotechnology, 2005)

The current investment of nanotechnology is as follows:

Basic research
Development research
Applied research

US$172.5 million (35 per cent)

US$205.5 million (42 per cent)
US$116.4 million (24 per cent)

The government R&D investment is split between universities (US$230 million 45 per
cent), national institutes (US$152.8 million 29 per cent), SMEs (US$78.2 million
15 per cent) and large companies (US$26.1 million 6 per cent).
Nanotechnology R&D covers:
1. Nano materials Concentrating on nanoparticles, optical nanomaterials, highly
functional synergy materials and catalyst/environment/porosity materials.
2. Nano electronic devices Concentrating on nano electronic device technologies,
nano information storage technologies, nano-photonics technologies, variable
wavelength optical device technologies, and other nano device and system
technologies.

71

3. Nano bio Concentrating on synthesis of nano biomaterials and analysis

technologies, medical medicine system and other nano biohealth technologies.
4. Process equipment Concentrating on nano-basic processing technologies, nanolevel measurement technologies, nano pattering technologies, materials
manipulation technologies, molecular/atomic level, nano-structurizing technologies
of interface or surface, new functional molecular synthesis technologies, nano
chemistry technologies and nano-level computer simulation.
Figure 3.12: National R&D investment in 2008 (in million US$)
BT 1,769.9 (16%)

OTHERS
4,725.8 (43%)

CT 73.2 (1%)

ET 1,360.8 (12%)
ST 807.5 (7%)

NT 527.4 (5%)

IT 1,729.9 (16%)

Figure 3.13: Number of registered nanotech patents in the United States

Patterning

383
1,122

Measurement
503

Computing replica

1,014

Nano process

1,147

Drug delivery
Diagnosis

1,531

Biomaterial

1,210

Eco-energy

378

Catalyst

1,363

Electronics

1,131

Nano power

1,827

Functional

2,474
1,257

Nano storage

2,973

Nano electronics
Nano photo

2,621
0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

(Source: Korea Institute of Patent Information, 2004)

Nanotechnology patents relatively focus on nanodevice and nanomaterials (> 60 per

cent).

72

II.

CURRENT GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES ON

NANOTECHNOLOGY
Table 3.13: Timeframe of Korea National Initiative Programme
1st Phase 2001-2004

2nd Phase (2005-2007)

z Establishing R&D

z New fields with strong

infrastructure

3rd Phase (2008-2010)

z R&D for industrial

impact on other areas

z R&D of core technologies

z Application technologies

application
z Extension of research

of core technology
z Workforce education for

z Leading to participation

R&D next generation

fields
z Commercialization of

of industries

results

The following research fields are supported:

z

z
z
z

Core nanotechnology (about 6 projects) These core nanotechnologies support

the current growth engines. They have large impact on industries in the near future.
This field has relatively well-established R&D infrastructure.
Basic nanotechnology (about 10 projects) There is a need for technologies that
generate new growth engines in the future and strengthen technology background.
Fundamental nanoscale science (about 20 projects) The aim is to support
fundamental sciences directly or indirectly related to nanotechnology.
Establishment of nanofabrication centre This is a general-purpose users
nanofabrication centre (for nanodevices, nano materials, biology, chemistry and
physics)
Education of workforce The aim is to support scientists to change their research
fields and cultivate skilled next-generation workforce.

Table 3.14: Focus areas of government investment in nanotechnology

United
States

Japan

United Germany
Kingdom

Materials/
processing

Equipment/
system

Energy/
environment

Bio/medical

Developing
equipment

Education

France Republic Taiwan

of Korea prov. of
China
O

India

Brazil

O
O

(Source: International Dialogue on Responsible Nanotechnology, 2004)

The governments strategy of Nanotechnology Development and Institutes aims for

high flexibility in the research period, budget size and target orientation. The other is
the application of the principle of scrap and build and a concept of moving target by

73

taking into consideration the diversity and liquidity of nanotechnology. The motivation
of collaborative activities among the industries, universities and institutes as well as
cooperative researches between various disciplines is also an essential task. So is
the motivation of mutual cooperation with foreign countries
As a future strategy, the government needs to expand R&D budget (especially in the
growth and embryonic period) and strengthen the R&D network between universities,
research centres and companies. They need to expand fundamental research and
commercialization with a balanced focus between them. In the future, venture companies
will get a great role.

A. Major research institutes

1. Korea Institute of Science & Technology (www.kist.re.kr/eng)
The research institute, which supports national aspirations for science and technology,
will take the lead efforts to build a science and technology-based society. Its main
goal is to research and develop creative original technologies to lead Koreas science
and technology sector and disseminate the results of its research throughout society.
One of its divisions is the Nano-Science Research Division, which was established to
provide the resource and expertise to ensure Korean leadership in nanoscience and
nanotechnology. The research areas include: development of basic materials, creation
of novel devices based on spintronics and new nanodevice concept, application of
nano-bio devices to improve human health and national economic strength.
They operate a basic technology development and competitiveness in strategic
nanotechnology areas during 2001-2007. The financial year 2003 budget was US$13.6
million.
2. Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and BioTech (www.kribb.re.kr/eng)
This institute works on bioscience and biotechnology R&D and supports research
projects. Its focus is to enhance domestic and overseas cooperation among industry,
academia and research institutes and distribute the result.
The Bionanotechnology Research Centre operates in the Division of Bioconvergence
Technology. The centre is involved in the development of nanobiochips, nanobiosensors
and nanomaterials by utilizing biocontents. It integrates biotechnology, nanotechnology
and information technology to conceive new drug discovery tools and technology for
disease diagnosis and treatment. Hopefully it will contribute to the creation of new
businesses. It established the basis of new prospective technology area of biotechnology
and information technology in the period 2003-2005. The financial year budget is US$0.8
million.
3. Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (www.krict.re.kr/English/
index.php)
The Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technologys aim is to improve the
competitiveness of the chemical industry and promote the establishment of new nationalscale industries by developing and disseminating original chemical technologies and
relevant convergence technologies.

74

Inside the Institute is the NanoBio Fusion Research Centre whose goal is to create a
new fusion technology by integrating nanotechnology and biotechnology. Its focus is
on developing nanoelectronic materials, anti-cancer medicine using target-orientated
liposome nanoparticles and diagnostic instrumentations for molecular nano-theranostics.
The financial year 2003 budget was US$3 million.
4. Korea Food Research Institute (www.kfri.re.kr/newekfri)
The Korea Food Research Institute (KFRI) is affiliated to the government. It was
established in 1988 for the realization of a healthy nation by contributing to the
improvement of fisheries, food industry and agriculture and by providing Korean people
with wholesome food through advanced food science and technology.
Food Bionano Technology Research Group has developed expertise in the bionanotechnology particularly in the areas of nano-scaled food materials and food biosensoring
systems. The aim is to develop multi-analysis technologies at the nanogram-level,
such as for traces of agricultural chemicals within food in the period 2000-2006. KFRI
has devised nanogram analysis technologies of harmful elements and kit for nano-bio
structure diagnosis. Its budget in the financial year 2003 was US$0.15 million.
5. Korea Institute of Energy Research (www.kier.re.kr/eng/index.jsp)
The Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) was founded in 1977 and is devoted to
R&D on clean and new energy technology, with a long-term view on future energy
security. The institute is focused on improving technology development and deployment
for industry, building and transportation and renewable energy technology development
and also R&D on climate change technology.
KIER worked on synthesizing nanoparticles and their application and on developing
energy materials and their application using nanotechnology in the period 2002-2006.
Its budget in the financial year 2003 was US$1 million.
6. Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science
(www.english.kriss.re.kr)
The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science was established in 1975 as
the central authority of the national standards system. The institute has been contributing
to the development of Korean national economy. It is engaged in the development of
new measurement standards and technologies and emerging industrial technologies,
including biotechnology, nanotechnology and information technology.
It established standards in nanoscale measurement and the next-generation standards.
Its budget in the financial year 2003 was US$0.5 million.
7. Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (www.kimm.re.kr/english/
index.php)
The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials was launched in 1976 with governmental
support. It contributes to the development of the Korean industries by developing and
spreading source technologies in mechanical engineering, and by conducting reliability
testing on and evaluation of the related products.
The institutes Nano-Mechanical System Research Division aims at the development
of production process, equipment and measurement to produce nano-scale machinery

75

and parts. The nano-scale research field includes physics, chemistry, mechanical
engineering, electrical engineering, printing technology and nature inspired technology
to establish infrastructure of nanotechnology-based industries. The Instututes budget
in the financial year 2003 was US$3.1 million.
8. Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (www.kisti.re.kr/
english/index.jsp)
Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information is specialized in providing science
and technology information services in order to strengthen national competitiveness in
science and technology.
It provides information support to national nanotechnology, constructs network and
manages the R&D information on the Internet (nanonet). The financial year budget for
the period 2010-2011 is US$1.2 million.

III.

RECENT TRENDS AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

A. Industrial application of nanotechnology
A survey on nanotechnology industry and R&D demand is currently underway, covering
200 enterprises in the Republic of Korea (including large enterprises (LEs) and SMEs).
According to the mid-term report covering 130 enterprises, R&D investment of SMEs
are much smaller than that of LEs but the ratio of sales to R&D investment is much
higher than that of LEs.
Table 3.15: Profile of nanotechnology industry in the Republic of Korea

Enterprise type

Number of
enterprises

Sales (2008)*

R&D
Ratio of sales
investment*
to R&D
investment

Large enterprises

13

932.4

20.5

2.2%

Medium enterprises

38

43.1

1.6

3.7%

Small enterprises

79

2.3

0.4

16.8%
* in US$ million

Most enterprises were established in 2000-2004. The nanotechnology development

master plan appears to have promoted nanotechnology business. Only a few enterprises
were established after 2005, mostly because of the uncertainty of the nano market and
economic crisis.
The major nano applications are categorized into six nanomaterial, nanodevice,
nanobio, nanoenergy and equipment for nano. Most SMEs produce nanomaterial and
equipment, but the number of SMEs producing applications in nanodevice and nanobio
is very few. LEs mainly operate in the nanomaterial and nanoenergy fields.
The final products made by SMEs are semiconductors, displays and materials. The
final products made by LEs are semiconductors, displays and renewable energy devices.
The main item of both SMEs and LEs is materials in final products.

76

Box 3.3: Examples of research outputs

Trends in nano materials

Carbon nanotube powder/liquid
z SWNT, DWNT, MWNT by arc-discharge or CVD process
z FED, Fuel cell, carbon semiconductor, AFM/STM Tip
z Companies: ILJIN, NanoKarbon, Carbonnanotech
Nano metal powder
z Aluminium, Copper, Nickel, Silver, Tin
z Colour filter, solution, soup, engine, oil
z Companies: Nano Technology, NPK
Conductive nano particle
Used in anisotropic conductive film
Flat panel display, notebook PC, mobile phone
Company: Cheil Industries

z
z
z

Trends in nano equipment

Exhibition of metrology and fabrication equipment are dominant and growing very
fast. The number of exhibitors were 52 per cent of total exhibitors in 2006.
Fast scan AFM/SPM
z Separates the z scanner from the x-y scanner
z Company: PSI
Nano imprint lithography equipment
z Designed fro sub-100 nm patterns and near zero-residual
z Company: NND
Nano powder production equipment
z Producing nano metal powder by using PWE process or ICP process
Trends in nano applications
Nano semiconductor/electronics is the most commercialized among other
nanotechnological applications. Development of bio-chip is progressing but still needs
more time before commercialization. Household items using sterilization properties
of nano silver are exhibited (cosmetics, toothpaste, soap, textiles, ceramics and
filters).
One NAND flash memory
z 2 Gbit one NAND flash memory using 60 nm process
z Contains strong points of NOR and NAND flash memory
z Mobile phones, PDAs, digital cameras
z Company: Samsung
Polarizer
z Development of polarizer with period less than 50nm
z Aimed at enhancing the extinction ratio up to 1000 fold at 450 nm
z LCD projection TV, DVD Wave Plate
z Company: LG

77

B. Major industrial applications

z
z

Nanomaterials, including fibres protected from electromagnetic wave and electric

ink for fine pattern print in printed electronics (circuit).
Nanodevices, including transparent fluorescence film for fluorescent lamps
(efficiency is more than two times that of a conventional one), process development
of transistor using carbon nanotube (manufacturing process is reduced from three
stages to one stage), flexible displays, sensor devices and transparent electrode
for solar cell.

The Government of the Republic of Korea is committed on nanotechnology through

investments on nanotech-related R&D projects and infrastructure. This will definitely
help not only in keeping the existing semiconductor and display industry leadership
but also in opening new industrial opportunities. The exponential increase of industry
attendance at Nano Korea indicates the strong business opportunity of nanotech in
Korea. The majority of exhibitions at Nano Korea are equipment and materials.
Nanosilver material has been deployed in many well-being products. CNT is applied
successfully for cooling fan, the first commercial deployment of CNT in the country.
Cost innovation is needed for replacing existing technology, which is especially important
for energy and environment application. They are still waiting for killer applications that
will be appearing in biotechnology, most probably.

C. Nanotechnology Research Association (NTRA)

NTRA is a non-profit organization established in 2001. It coordinates industrial needs
related to the development of nanotechnology. The tasks of NTRA are:
1. Execute government-funded R&D projects:
z Next-generation core technology for commercialization;
z Extreme-ultraviolet lithography for nanoscale semiconductor;
z High-efficiency new light source using CNT;
z Carbon nano thin-film material and process; and
z Development of key components and system for high-resolution display stepper.
2. Organize Nano-Korea Exhibition and Symposium event.
3. Survey activities on nano-industrial technology in the Republic of Korea.

78

DISCUSSION 3
After the third session, Mr. Mogyorosi asked Mr. Sang Ki Jeong whether the Republic
of Korea wants to export its research services in nanotechnology. Mr. Jeong answered
that they already had few contacts like 3M and had already started discussion with
them. Mr. Nuttrapu Supaka, Head of Testing and Services Laboratory, National
Nanotechnology Centre, Thailand, was curious to know the source of raw material for
the products. According to Mr. Jeong, the raw material supply was outsourced.
The participants agreed that the importance of quality is very high in nanotechnology
sector and the quality management system play a major role in the development and
advancement of the sector.
The problem in the Asian countries was that they had many patents but unfortunately
only a few of them were commercialized. In nanotechnology, one of the major questions
was how scaling-up could be done, and that depended on technologies available for
commercialization. However, participants agreed that the situation is fortunate because
of the high level of support from many governments of the Asian countries.
Mr. Ramanathan asked some questions about the Iranian presentation. One of the
questions was about the kind of risks they had regarding nanotechnology. Mr. Rostami
answered that the main risk was commercialization risk, which included health and
environmental hazards. Another question was about the Iranian context and about the
support received. Mr. Rostami could not answer this fully, as he was from research
and not from policy-related institutions.

79

80

PART FOUR
COUNTRY PRESENTATIONS

81

I.

BANGLADESH4

A. National policy system and R&D capacities

The Bangladeshi national policy gives priority to the development of infrastructure facilities
and capacity building in R&D institutions/universities to carry out research in the field
of:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Information and communication technology;

Healthcare (diagnostics, cancer treatment and biosensors);
Environmental protection (reduce carbon dioxide emission);
Reduction of energy consumption;
Efficient renewable energies;
Purification, protection and production of drinking water (arsenic mitigation and
nanofiltration); and
7. Agriculture and food security (using appropriate biotechnology and nanosensors).
The Ministry of Science and ICT of the Government of Bangladesh is giving emphasis
on the innovation of new strategies and appropriate technologies for the poverty
alleviation and socio-economic development of the country.
For all these national plans to be implemented, promotion of nanotechnology is
inevitable. Since nanotechnology is a comparatively novel and emerging technology
and became important very recently, it would be incorporated in the national policy as
a separate entity in due time for its potential growth and promotion of the socio-economic
benefits.
R&D in nanotechnology in Bangladesh is very limited. The Materials Science Division
of Atomic Energy Centre at Dhaka is carrying out some research work in the field of
nanotechnology covering the following areas:
1. Synthesis of nanoparticles by chemical methods, such as silver nanoparticles,
iron oxide nanoparticles and various ceramic oxide nanoparticles, for studying
magnetic and dielectric properties.
2. Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticle has potential applications as a carrier of targeted
drug delivery in cancer treatment by utilizing magnetic field created by iron oxide
nanoparticle that facilitates tumours to be heated and destroyed without damaging
adjacent healthy cells. Nanoscale iron oxide particles are extremely effective at
binding and removing arsenic from ground water (which is a critical problem of
some South Asian countries). Iron nanoparticles can be used for fabrication as a
nanofilter that has potential applications in gas and water filtration.
3. Silver nanoparticle has antibacterial properties and can be incorporated into textiles,
coating and wound dressing for improving healthcare. The synthesized nanoparticles
are characterized by XRD and SEM, the only facilities available at the Materials

This paper was presented by Mr. Muhammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Deputy Secretary,

Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology, Bangladesh.

82

Science Division. The particle sizes between 5 nm and 50 nm have been found and
these depend on the thermal history during synthesis.
4. Development of nanostructured/nanocomposite magnetic materials derived from
the amorphous precursor in the form of ribbons with thickness of 20-25 m prepared
by rapid solidification technique and subsequent thermal treatment. The nanograins
developed during thermal treatment of the amorphous counterpart as a function of
temperature/time has been found to be in the range of 5-20 nm. The best magnetic
properties have been found for the sample with grain size of 10-15 nm.
5. The nanostructured materials include iron-based ultra-soft nanocrystalline magnetic
materials, fall under the trade name FINEMET and have potential applications as
various kinds of inductor materials having ultra-high permeability and high relative
quality factors. The research work on spring-exchange iron-based hard magnetic
materials in the form of ribbons has also been carried out in the department for the
optimization of the materials to have high-energy product permanent magnets.
These materials have many applications in electrical and electronic devices.

B. Conclusion
Against this promise of enormous benefits, a cautionary note should be sounded. In
the through the looking glass world of nanotechnology we are in uncharted territory.
We need to examine safety, health and environmental issues with respect to the
nanoparticle hazards and toxicity. However we should not become so paralysed by
caution that we strangle these emerging sciences/technologies with red tape either.
This exploration of inner space may yet prove to be our best bet in solving some of the
most pressing and fundamental, life-threatening issues facing us all.
Scope of research in nanotechnology in Bangladesh is limited because of the
unavailability of appropriate tools and equipments, fewer numbers of resource persons
as well as lack of proper training, less interaction and collaboration in this emerging
technology. This is the most appropriate time to have close cooperation among the
South-South countries to share the knowledge base and infrastructure for better
understanding of the nanoscience and technology for future development of this region.
For these purposes, expert-level interactions, discussions and formal meetings are
necessary.
The following work is to be done by using nanotechnology:
1. Information and communication technology healthcare (diagnostic, cancer treatment
and biosensors);
2. Environmental protection (reduce carbon dioxide emission);
3. Reduction of energy consumption;
4. Renewable energies;
5. Purification, protection and production of drinking water (arsenic mitigation and
nanofiltration); and
6. Agriculture and food security (using appropriate biotechnology and nanosensors).

83

II.

INDIA5
A. National policy system and R&D capacities
Nanotechnology is a multidisciplinary science that has its roots in fields such as
colloidal science, device physics and supramolecular chemistry. It refers to technologies
in which matter is manipulated on the atomic and molecular scale to create novel
materials and processes. It is seen as the next industrial revolution. The future of
nanotechnology is very bright. Some of the prominent application areas are:
z
z
z
z

Chemicals and basic nano-structured materials;

Electronics and computing;
Pharmaceuticals and medical products; and
Energy generation.
Figure 4.1: Global nanotechnology market
Aviation 6%

Others 9%
Materials 31%

Chemistry 9%

Medicines 17%
Electronics 28%

The Indian government realized the role of nanoscience and nanotechnology and
launched a Mission under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in May
2007, with an allocation of about US$130 million for five years. The Mission on Nano
Science and Technology (Nano Mission) of DST (nodal agency) has funded a number
of interdisciplinary projects in Indian Institutes of Technology and other national institutes
of repute by creating Centres for Nanotechnology.
The Nano Missions aims are:
z
z
z

z
z

Capacity building in research;

Developing India as a global knowledge hub;
Development of products and processes for national development, especially in
areas of national relevance such as safe drinking water, material development,
sensors development and drug delivery;
Forging linkages between industry, educational and research intuitions;
Promote public-private partnership (PPP); and

This paper was presented by Mr. R.R. Abhyankar, Scientist G and Head, TPDU,
Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Ministry of Science and
Technology, India.

84

Efforts for international collaborative research.

Several research projects are going on in the private sector in the following areas:
coating/paints, novel drug delivery system, new materials development, biotechnology,
energy and products out of nanomaterials.

85

III.

INDONESIA6
A. National policies and institutional infrastructure
The national research agenda in Indonesia covers the following areas:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Food security;
Health and medicine;
New and renewable energy;
Defence and security;
Transportation;
Information technology and communication;
Natural resources and environment;
Social dynamics;
Science measurement; and
Advanced materials (nanomaterial, functional material, inelegancy material, etc.)

There are two main actors in the nanotechnology field in Indonesia. The first is the
Ministry for Science and Technology (MOST), which oversees national research institute
and universities. MOST manages the Incentive Research Grant Programme and the
National Research Priority Programme. The other main actor is the Department of
Education for Universities, which manages the Competitive Research Grant.
There are many research institutes under MOST:
z
z
z

Agency for Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT);

Agency for Atomic and Nuclear Power (BATAN); and
Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI):
Research Centre for Physics (ceramics, equipment, etc.);
Research Centre for Metallurgy (alloy material);
Research Centre for Biotechnology (health, food);
Research Centre for Chemistry (catalyst); and
R&D Unit for Biomaterial (automotive).

B. Institutional and competency development at LIPI

In 1967, the Indonesian government established the Indonesian Institute of Science
(LIPI) that implements the following tasks:
z

Guiding the development of science and technology, to be rooted in Indonesia and

to be utilized for the welfare of the people of Indonesia in particular and mankind in
general;
Search for scientific truth, ensuring that the scientific freedom, freedom of research
and freedom of expression are recognized and guaranteed; and

This paper was presented by Mr. Bambang Subiyanto, Director, Centre for Innovation,
Indonesian Institute of Science, Indonesia.

86

Preparing the formation of Indonesian Academy of Science.

LIPI also has the task of carrying out government duties in the field of scientific research
in accordance with the provisions and legislation in force.
Box 4.1: Example of research outputs

Cellulose nanofibre (bio-nanofibre) in wood cell wall (Awano, Kyoto

University)
Cellulose nanofibre is strong as steel, as thermally stable as glass and as bendable
as plastics.
The mechanical reinforcement of optically functional materials is of significant interest
to various industries due to the rapid expansion of related devices (e.g. displays). They
have developed a transparent polymeric nanocomposite using a web-like bacterial
cellulose nanofibre network as the mechanical reinforcing agent. Sustainable carbon
was used to produce high-strength and high-durability materials for electricity goods,
building materials, automotives and other goods. Fibre that is made of biomass has
strength the same as steel. It is easy for this nanocomposite to reform with high
strength and these products have high functional materials properties flexible,
transparent and high stabilization dimension.
Table 4.1: Relationship between processing of disintegration, component and strength
Disintegration process

Component

Modulus of
elasticity (GPa)

Tensile strength
(MPa)

Pulping

Wood

10

100

Mechanical/chemical dissolving

Fibre

40

400

Mechanical/chemical dissolving

Fibre

70

700

130-250

800-10,000

Crystal structure

(Source: Zimmermann and others, 2004)

Pulp can be disintegrated into nanofibres having a web-like network (MFC). The strength
of the composites reinforced with these nanofibres is equivalent to that of mild steel or
magnesium alloy.
A 300 kg reduction of automobile body weight improves fuel consumption by 20 per
cent reinforced body (bioplastic), reinforced tyre (natural rubber) and reinforced window.

87

IV.

ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN7

A. Iran Nanaotechnology Initiative Council (INIC)
The Islamic Republic of Iran, like other pioneer countries, has recognized the significance
of nanotechnology and started its own technology development activities. As a first
step, a Study Committee for Nanotechnology in Iran was established in 2001 and then
the Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council (INIC) began its activities.
The aims of INIC are to determine the general policies for the development of
nanotechnology in the country and to pursue the case implementation of the policies.
The main missions of INIC are to achieve a proper place among 15 countries that are
advanced in nanotechnology and to promote the position in a bid to develop Irans
economy.
INIC is seeking to pave the ground for activity of the private sector and production of
wealth within the society through adopting outlook, providing facilities, creating market
and removing the existing problems.
INICs task is to approve goals, strategies, macro-scale policies and national initiatives
for the development of nanotechnology in the country. Otherwise, the Council describes
general tasks for governmental bodies and determines missions for each sector and
coordinates among them within the framework of a long-term national plan.
The Cabinet passed the second edition of Nano-Initiatives Programme in July 2005.
This 10-year programme defines the outlook, mission, main goals, strategy and 33
action plans. The aim is to create wealth and to raise peoples quality of life. Iran wants
to be among the top 15 countries in the world in all rings of value chain: number of ISI
publications, number of international patents, and the volume of nano products and the
share of nano market.
The programme includes 33 activities divided into five categories:
z
z
z
z
z

Awareness promotion (public, policy makers, students, researchers, industries,

businesspersons, etc.);
Human resource development (M.Sc. and Ph.D. programmes and supporting
research projects);
Infrastructure (National Lab Network, standardization, IP, incubation centres, venture
capital, etc.);
Technology development and production (R&D funds, supporting SMEs); and
International collaboration.

The priorities of the programme are energy (oil, gas, petrochemicals and solar cells),
health (DDS and diagnostic kits), water and environment, nanomaterials and
construction.
INIC supports nanotechnology development in many ways. For example, it created a
Nanotechnology Awareness Promotion Plan that has set up more than 50 websites.
7

This paper was presented by Mr. Mahmoud Molanejad, Director, International

Cooperation, IROST, Islamic Republic of Iran.

88

There is a special website for children (www.nanoclub.ir) and a comprehensive

nanotechnology portal (www.nano.ir). INIC publishes three journals and newsletters,
and a nanotechnology monthly newsletter. Nanotechnology has already entered the
daily lives of people and hence, INIC is trying to introduce students to this field. High
school textbooks contain chapters on nanotechnology and several workshops have
been held for students. Iran Nano Exhibition was organized in 2008 in Tehran wherein
students could get a closer view of nanotechnology experiments.
Table 4.2: Nanotechnology funding in Iran
2004-2008

US$ million

State funding

40

Public organizations

25

Private sector

70

Total

135

INIC has several international collaborations worldwide:

z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Iran-Germany Joint Conference on Nanotechnology (June 2003);

Iran-Russian Joint Conference on Nanotechnology (May 2004);
First Iran-India Joint Conference on Nanotechnology (April 2006);
Second Iran-India Joint Conference on Nanotechnology (May 2009);
P-Member of ISO/TC229 standardization committee on nanotechnology;
UNIDOs International Centre on Nanotechnology for Water Purification and Waste
Management;
Centre for nanotechnology network of ECO countries;
Proposed centre for Inter-Islamic Network on nanotechnology; and
Looking towards collaboration with ANFs member economies.

Until now, INIC has 12 universities in Iran engaged in M.Sc. programmes and five
universities running Ph.D. programmes (466 Ph.D. projects and 2,280 M.Sc. projects).
The world ranking of the country is now 19 (ISI publication 2008, 23 international
registered patents).
Figure 4.2: Number of ISI articles
900

810

800
700
600
465

500
400
281

300
200
100

132
30

58

2003

2004

0
2005

2006

2007

2008

89

Table 4.3: Ranking in nanotechnology knowledge generation in terms of publications and IPs
No.

Country

2005

No.

Country

2006

No.

Country

2007

No.

Country

2008

USA

11523

USA

12812

USA

13752

China

14867

China

7390

China

9544

China

12644

USA

13825

Japan

5232

Japan

5649

Japan

5838

Japan

5103

19

Brazil

638

19

Brazil

743

19

Brazil

832

19

Iran

810

20

Sweden

629

20

Sweden

721

20

Sweden

721

20

Poland

775

21

Israel

541

21

Israel

589

21

Belgium

642

21

Sweden

690

22

Belgium

516

22

Belgium

555

22

Israel

596

22

Israel

619

23

Mexico

449

23

Mexico

495

23

Mexico

517

23

Belgium

606

24

Austria

394

24

Austria

427

24

Greece

493

24

Mexico

532

25

Ukraine

387

25

Ukraine

390

25

Iran

465

25

Austria

450

26

Hungary

285

26

Czech

352

26

Austria

455

26

Finland

446

27

Czech

284

27

Finland

342

27

Ukraine

447

27

Ukraine

422

28

Greece

282

28

Portugal

330

28

Romania

417

28

Turkey

319

29

Finland

26

29

Greece

328

29

Finland

415

29

Greece

396

30

Denmark

249

30

Denmark

292

30

Czech

370

30

Romania

384

31

Ireland

238

31

Iran

281

31

Ireland

345

31

Czech

369

32

Romania

232

32

Hungary

275

32

Turkey

332

32

Denmark

351

33

Turkey

215

33

Ireland

269

33

Denmark

326

33

Portugal

320

34

Portugal

186

34

Turkey

263

34

Portugal

296

34

Thailand

306

35

Argentina

151

35

Romania

262

35

Hungary

279

35

Ireland

304

36

Iran

132

36

Argentina

187

36

Argentina

215

36

Hungary

268

(Source: ANF Summit Report, 2009)

B. Nanaotechnology infrastructure in Iran

1. Iran Nanotechnology Laboratory Network
The Iran Nanotechnology Laboratory Network (INLN) was established in 2004 with the
aim of creating a proper ground for presenting laboratory services to the university and
industrial researchers and optimum use of laboratory potential in Iran. The network
covers 42 advanced laboratories nationwide (from more than 120 applicant centres). At
present, information related to more than 700 member and non-member centres of the
network and more than 400 laboratory instruments are available for experts via the
website of INLN.
2. Iran Nanotechnology Standardization Committee
The Iran Nanotechnology Standardization Committee was established jointly by the
Organization of Standards, Industrial Research of Iran (ISRI) and INIC in 2006. The
Committee is a P-member of the International Organization for Nanotechnology
Standardization (ISO/TC 229). ISO/TC 229 was formed by the International Organization
for Standardization (ISO) in 2005 in a bid to provide and adopt needed standards in
nanotechnology fields.

90

The Committee has three specialized working groups:

1. Working group for terms, definitions and names defining unified definitions and
terms and nanotechnology-related names.
2. Working group for measuring and identifying standardizing, measuring methods
and identifying features of the nanomaterial, nanostructure, nanodevice and
nanotechnology products.
3. Working group for health, safety and environment developing and adopting
standards in environmental, safety and health issues and specifying equipments
for protection of individuals and engineering control; offering safety instructions;
and assessing and reviewing toxicity as well as nanotechnology-related dangers.
The Nano-metrology and Nano-instrumentation Centre was launched in 2007. INIC
allocated US$6 million in 2007-2008 and will invest about US$10 million on this project
by the year 2010.
Intellectual Property Department of INIC was established in 2005. It has supported 10
active research centres in the nanotechnology to establish Intellectual Property and
technology Licensing Office (IPTLO) for their own.
Box 4.2: Examples of research outputs

Hydro conversion
It is a very novel way to convert heavy crude oil into light crude oil using nano
catalysts. Lab-scale experiments have been completed successfully. A pilot plant
with a capacity of 200 barrels/day is being built.
Carbon nanotube (CNT) production
The Research Institute of Petroleum Industry (RIPI) is able to produce 8 kg CNT per day.
Breast cancer diagnostic kit (NanoSina Co.)
This diagnostic kit is for the early detection of breast cancer. It is undergoing clinical
tests and will be on the market within one year.
Nano additive for motor oil (Pishgaman NanoArya Co.)
It is an additive for improving the performance of motor oil. It is already available on
the market.
Nanosilver (Pars Nano Nssb Co. and Noavaran Catalyt Co.)
Products are in the form of fabrics and garments that incorporate nanosilver.
Scanning tunnelling microscope (Nanotechnology Systems Co.)
The company has sold two microscopes to domestic institutes and exported two units.
Antibacterial products (Nanopac Persia Co.)
The company developed nano treatment solutions for air/water/soil, nano airconditioning filter and nano -sized photo-catalysts.
(Contd...)

91

Box 4.2: Examples of research outputs (contd...)

Nano spinning machine (Nano Ris Co.)

Water purification
This kind of water purification uses nano-filtration technology. The pilot plant treats
60 m3 of wastewater per day near River Karoun (Khuzestan province in the south of
Iran). The result is low-cost drinking water production. Furthermore, the company
provides consulting, design and engineering services.

C. Iran Nanotechnology Business Network (INBN)

INBN is a collection of Iranian companies that work in the field of nanotechnology. The
network aims to support cooperation among Iranian nanotech companies, including
commercialization, investment, technology development, marketing, branding and the
private sector start-ups entering into the market. There are more than 50 active
companies working in the field of nanotech in Iran. The network provides non-material
and material support. Non-material support includes cases like help to agencies to
solve their challenges, provide information and other assistance that the agencies
require. Material support include the following cases:
z
z
z

Presenting targeted credits of the network to the nano companies;

Supportive package of the nanotechnology companies network taken from industrial
R&D of the companies; and
Partnership, presenting facilities and risky investment.
Table 4.4: Companies supported by INBN

Type of company

Number

Companies that have already introduced a nano product to the market

14

Companies that have been successful in making a nano-product and are in the process of
commercializing

11

Spin-offs from universities/research centres with a nano-product in the stage of commercializing

25

Service vendors (intellectual property, training)

Trading companies

Instrument producing companies

Other companies are investing on R&D in nanotechnology

Total number of companies involved in nanotechnology

92

40
110

V.

MALAYSIA8
A. Background
Malaysia is situated in South Asia between 20 and 30 North latitude and between
110 and 30 East longitudes. The land area is 328,750 m2 and the climate is tropical,
with the temperature averaging 25C-35C. The country has a parliamentary form of
government headed by the Prime Minister. Malaysia is abundant in hard working and
the capable human resources (with its 28 million population). It is a culturally disciplined
country there are Malays (Bumiputera or Indigenous), Chinese, Indians and other
groups from different nations. The official religion of Malaysia is Islam; the others are
Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Confucianism and Taoism. The official language is
Bahasa Malaysia but English is widely spoken.
The economy of this country is growing; it was the fifth most competitive country in
2004. Malaysia retained its position as the 18th largest world exporter and the 20th
largest importer. In 2006, the GDP growth rate achieved was 5.9 per cent. The country
is a member of OIC, NAM and ASEAN. Malaysia is very rich in natural resources (e.g.
oil, gas, tin, timber, palm oil and rubber). The biodiversity is very big. The government
tries to enhance the business environment by supporting of growth with targeted policies.
It makes efforts in order to nurture the development of SMEs and let them become a
national agenda towards creating economic resilience.
In 2006, Malaysia ranked 17th in world trade with its M$1 trillion in exports and imports
(export value: M$560 billion, import value: M$480 billion). Manufacturing contributed
67 per cent to the GDP and manufacturing goods contributed 72 per cent of exports.
Table 4.5: Differing requirements for stages in economics ecosystem
Agricultural economy

Industrial economy

New economy
(knowledge-based)

Key drivers of growth

Labour

Labour capital

Knowledge/innovation

Source of competitiveness edge

Economies of scale

Productivity,
economies of scale

Innovativeness

Source of wealth

Real estate (land)

Real estate and

financial property

Intellectual property

R&D

Low

Moderate

High

Human resource

Basic

Technical and skills

Technical skill, scientists

and entrepreneurship

Funding

Conventional

Collateralized by tangible
assets

Risk capital, particularly

venture capital

This paper was presented by Mr. Radin Zulhazmi Bin Radin Abdul Halim, Principal
Assistant Secretary Industry Division, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation
(MOSTI), Malaysia.

93

The government will continue to work hard to transform the Malaysian economy into
an innovation-based knowledge-economy with higher value add and having knowledge,
technology and innovation as key drivers of growth. (YAB Dato, Sri Najib Tun Razak)
The above quotation from the Prime Minister emphasizes that the government of Malaysia
recognizes an effective science, technology and innovation policy as critical for
positioning itself to meet the challenges and seize open opportunities in the knowledge
economy. Malaysia believes that a successful innovation policy requires interdependent
efforts by government, industry, university and non-profit institutions where the key
function of the government is providing the climate for innovation, continuous surveying
of global situations, coordinating and gap filling. What matters most is the process of
change through innovation. Hopefully Malaysias effort in innovation policy would be
able to promote and inculcate the innovation culture to all levels of the society.

B. Market potential
Nanotechnology has been identified as a new source of economic growth. It is forecast
that nanotechnology in the manufacturing sector will grow in an exponential rate for
the next 10 years. The present financial crisis has not had much affect on
nanotechnology development. An increasing number of countries that drive
nanotechnology initiatives have increased commercially viable nanotechnology-based
products in the market. It is predicted that the global market for nanotechnology by
2011 will be US$25 billion with a growth rate of 19.1 per cent per year. By 2015, the
global market for nanotechnology-based products will be in the region of US$1 trillion
(Cientifica, 2009).
Figure 4.3: Global sales of products incorporating nanotechnology (in US$)
3,000,000
2,500,000
2,000,000
1,500,000
1,000,000
500,000
0
2004

2006

2008

2010

2012

2014

(Source: ANF Summit Report, 2009)

Many enabling technologies have formed a trend based on the initial point of technology
development to the initial point of commercialization.

94

Figure 4.4: Enabling technology commercialization trend

Plastic
Malaysia
must start
now

Biotech

Internet

Nanotech

1920

1930

1940

1950

1960

1970

1980

1990

2000

2010

Table 4.6: Funds injected (US$ million) by the government for nanotechnology development
Country

Amount

Country

Amount

Japan

US$2.8 billion (2006-2010)

Thailand

US$60 million (5 year plan)

Taiwan prov. of China

US$689 million (2009-2014)

Australia

US$100 million (5 year plan)

Republic of Korea

US$259 million (2009)

Islamic Republic of Iran

US$60 million (2008)

China

US$62.5 million (2009)

Viet Nam

US$100 million (5 year plan)

Singapore

US$80 million (2009)

New Zealand

US$13.8 million (2009)

India

US$200 million (2009-2014)

Malaysia

US$35.26 million (2006-2010)

Russia

US$5 billion (2008-2011)

(Source: ANF Summit Report, 2009)

C. Nanotechnology development in Malaysia

The National Nanotechnology Initiatives was launched in 2006. The Academy of Sciences
Malaysia (ASM) is now a focal point for nanoscience and nanotechnology. Malaysia
has also set up the National Nanotechnology Technical Committee, with SIRIM Berhad
as its secretariat. The country currently has 300 researchers in the field of
nanotechnology. Efforts have been made to identify nanotechnology experts from
overseas to collaborate with Malaysian researchers. Malaysia is a member of the Asia
Nano Forum (ANF). Malaysia heads the working group on Nanotechnology Infrastructure
and R&D. A study was conducted by UPE in 2007 as a preliminary assessment to
identify potential R&D and applications of nanotechnology in Malaysia. Six National
Nanotechnology Research Centres (NNRCs) were identified (SIRIM Berhad, USM,
UKM, UM, UPM and UTM). R&D (worth M$124.3 million) has been carried out to date.
Malaysia participated in forums organized by ANF, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)
countries and International Cooperation Partnership Countries (ICPC) EU Nanonetwork.

95

Research area: nanophysics and nanochemistry

z

Nanoelectronics and devices Ability to miniaturize most of the product/

components in the range of 10-9 m (nanometre) scales, especially in the area of
information technology.
Nanomaterials The research activities pioneered by a group of physicists in UTM
have been focusing on the physics of semiconductor, thin films, amorphous and
crystalline phases and multi-layer structures plus nanocarbon structures (fullerene,
CNTs), clay, layered silicates, polymer, aerogel, glass, zeolites and ceramics.
Nanocomposites Combination of one or more inorganic and organic materials,
and metal in the nanoscale, hybrid catalysts, zeozyme, metal-oxide mesoporous
composites, ceramic clay.
Table 4.7: Malaysian agencies in nanotechnology

Name of Institute

Application/Area of Interest

Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN),

University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Nanoelectronics, OLED, Microelectromechanical

system (MEMS), Nanowire, Sensors

Ibnu Sina Institute for Fundamental Science Studies (IIS),

University Technology Malaysia (UTM)

Nanochemistry nanostructures materials,

nanocatalysts, CNT, nanoelectronic devices

Combinatorial Technology and Catalysis Research Centre Catalysts

(COMBICAT), University Malaya (UM)
Glycolipids Research Centre (GLYCOLIPIDS), University
Malaya (UM)

Nanomaterals/Surfactants

Advances Materials Research Centre (AMREC), SIRIM

Berhad

Nanomaterials, Processes

School of Physics and School of Medical Science,

University Sains Malaysia (USM)

Organic LED, Molecular nanobiotechnology,

CNT, Drug, Delivery System (DDS), Sensors

Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), University Putra

Malaysia (UPM)

Nanocomposite, Electronics, Nanomedicine

National Nanotechnology Initiatives objectives are to improve the Malaysian economic

competitiveness to face global challenges, accelerate scientific breakthrough on
selective beneficial nanotechnologies and enhance societal and environmental
contribution.
The functions are:
1. To integrate all existing local nanotechnology activities;
2. To coordinate and plan the R&D activities;
3. To prepare a platform for commercialization and transfer of new technology to
generate economic return for the general public;
4. To develop educational resources, skilled labour, expertise and nanotechnology
infrastructure;
5. To provide facilities and nanotechnology research support services.

96

Box 4.3: Examples of research outputs

Maerogel (UTM): In 2007, Maerogel was patented in Malaysia and marks a new
chapter in the history of Aerogels. It is produced using a low cost process with
inexpensive raw materials 50-75 per cent cost reduction.
Nanoherbs (UniMAP): The herbal extract is nanosized and functionalized as DDS
for medical treatment for brain cancer, brain healing, HIV, influenza H1N1,
immunization improvement and bone healing.
Bio Sensor Kits (UniMAP): They developed devices and kits that are able to carry
out Halal product detection, early cancer detection (stage 1) and medical diagnostic.
Functions of the National Nanotechnology Directorate are:
z

Coordinate activities related to nanotechnology industry, in particular human capital

development programmes and research, development and commercialization;
z Plan and develop the policy, infrastructure and physical facilities in tandem with
strategic frameworks for nanotechnology products development;
z Support the National Green Technology Policy and innovation model; and
z Propose the establishment of a Nanotechnology Centre of Excellent (i-CoE).

D. Concluding remarks
The challenges to industry and academia are in manufacturing (design, manufacturing
and system integration of nanodevices), sustainability (address triple bottom-line profits
environment and social when developing nanotechnology products and services),
research training (create a new breed of researchers working across traditional
disciplines and thinking outside the box) and education (change current science and
engineering curricula to incorporate nanoscale science concepts and nurture the
scientific and technical workforce for the next century).
To fast track nanotechnology as an enabler of revenue-generating programmes in
Malaysia, the following action items need to be addressed:
1. Nanotechnology as a new source of economic growth There are programmes
embarking in RMK10 to apply nanotechnology as a new source of growth: renewable
energy (solar), medical and health (herbs), water treatment and infrastructure material
for greener environment. Collaboration with international players is also very important
to position Malaysian products in the global market.
2. Strengthen the policy and institutional framework Establish a National
Nanotechnology Directorate (NND); allocate funding for the operationalization of
NND in the year 2010; and establish a national policy, road map, action plan and
commercialization framework.
Nanotechnology is an emerging technology, and it will transform and displace many of
the products and processes that are the basis of our existing industries. This means
that investment in nanotechnologies is an imperative not only for Malaysia to remain
competitive but as a future growth industry in its own right.

97

VI.

NEPAL9
A. Background
Nepal is a beautiful country situated in the mid-Himalayan Mountain section of Asia. It
borders Tibet on the north and India on the east, south and west. It is a landlocked
country situated at a distance of about 1120 km from the nearest sea, the Bay of
Bengal. The country extends from 26 22' N to 30 27' N latitude and 80 4' E to 88 12'
E longitude. Nepal has a total land area of 147,181 km2. Altitudinal variation ranging
from 55 m to almost 9,000 m has contributed to the occurrence of sub-tropical,
temperate, alpine and arctic climate and vegetation within the country. Topographically,
Nepal is divided into three zones: (1) the snow-capped high Himalayas; (2) the
mountainous region, including long terraces and fertile slopes; and (3) sub-tropical
plain Terai region. Mountains lay on 35 per cent of the total land area and 7.8 per cent
of the total population, hills with 42 per cent of total land area and 45.2 per cent of total
population and plains in the south with 23 per cent of the land area and 47 per cent of
total population.
The population of the country is 27.15 million and growing at a rate of 2.3 per cent per
annum. Estimated per capita GNP for the year 2008 was US$470. Nepal is one of the
least developed countries in the world. Nepals economy is based on agriculture and
66 per cent of the total gainfully employed population is engaged in the primary sector,
including agriculture, forestry and fishery. The composition of Nepalese economy can
be broadly divided as agriculture (40 per cent), commercial sector (10 per cent), industry
sector (10 per cent out of which small and cottage industries account for nearly 90
per cent) and service sector and others (40 per cent). Literacy of the population in
2001 was 54.1 per cent. More than 86 per cent of the total population still lives in rural
areas. Nepals per capita income is about US$470 (2008).

B. Status of nanotechnology in Nepal

The knowledge of advancement of nanotechnology and its impact to different facets of
society are yet to be well established among the Nepalese scientific community. The
available national policy and strategies do not reflect anything for the promotion of
nanotechnology. However, some researchers and scientists who were educated abroad
and have some familiarity with nanotechnology are doing research works on their own
and providing research guidance to students at various departments of the Tribhuvan
University. For instance, the central department of chemistry of the university is working
on:
z
z
z

Polymer-based nanotechnology such as synthesis and functionalization of

nanoparticles;
Study on the effect of filler loading on various physical properties of polymeric
materials; and
Amphiphilic polymers that self-assemble to form periodic nanostructures such
polymers can be used as templates for preparing nano-objects.

This paper was presented by Mr. Ramesh Singh Pradhan, Executive Director, Research
Centre for Applied Science and Technology (RECAST), Nepal.

98

The Institute of Science has initiated some work on curriculum reform to integrate
different aspects of nanotechnology at the bachelor and masters level. Nepal Academy
of Science and Technology (NAST) and Kathmandu University also have some
infrastructure and laboratory facilities that can lead to some research work on
nanoscience. Nepal Chemical Society plans to explore the status of nanotechnology
and related researches in the near future as it plans to organize a seminar on
nanotechnology a workshop on nanochemistry in 2010.

C. Conclusion
1. Nanotechnology and its potential benefits are yet to be recognized by the Nepalese
scientific community, to strengthen the collaboration between R&D institutions,
universities and private firms.
2. Available national policies related to science and technology and strategies do not
provide any reference to nanoscience and technology.
3. Nepal Chemical Society has taken some initiatives in promoting awareness on
nanotechnology by organizing seminar and workshop on nanotechnology.
4. Nanotechnology centre equipped with fundamental nano-analytical techniques
should be established in Nepal to promote inter-disciplinary research activities to
realize the potential benefits of nanotechnology for national development.
5. Nepal looks forward to the cooperation among APCTT-ESCAP member countries
for the establishment of nanotechnology centre and for the development of the
human resources in the nanotechnology sector through the training/workshops/
seminars opportunities.
6. Strong collaboration among scientists from universities, research centres and
industries should be promoted through collaborative research and exchange of
knowledge in nanoscience.

99

VII.

PAKISTAN10
A. Strategies and policies
A national commission on nanoscience and technology has been formed to help in the
promotion of nanotech activities within the country. R&D in different areas of
nanotechnology have been scheduled keeping in view national needs. Many universities
are upgrading their curriculum.
1. Governmental organizations working in nanotechnology
Leading institutes working in this area are:
z
z
z
z
z

Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR);

NINVAST, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad;
Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South
(COMSATS);
University of the Punjab-Solid State Physics Departure; and
Other universities are also coming forward.

(a) National Commission on Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST)

This age is a golden opportunity for Pakistan to reorient its resources and invest in
nanotechnology.
(b) Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
PCSIR was established in 1953 to promote the cause of science and technology in the
country. It has a fully functional nanotechnology centre, mainly focusing on nanocoatings,
nanomaterials and nanopowders. The activities of PCSIR encompass almost the entire
industrial sector in the country, for the industrial units in operation have their groundwork
in science and technology in which PCSIR is both prominent and all too visible an
organization on the national plan. PCSIR, being the foremost industrial R&D
organization, is the largest organized producer of technologies. Other activities include:
z
z

10

Optimum utilization of indigenous raw material resources for the development of

industrial processes;
Development of technologies around local resources from bench to pilot plant stages
and leasing them out for industrial exploitation, leading to import substitution and
export enhancement;
To conduct R&D work on problems faced by the industrial sector and maintain
linkages through seminars, workshops, publications and provision of assistance
to academic institutions;
To undertake cooperative research with local and foreign R&D organizations and
commerce-industrial outfits on projects of national interest; and

This paper was presented by Mr. Shahzad Alam, Director General, Pakistan Council for

Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), Lahore, Pakistan.

100

Human resource development through organized training courses and diffusive on

the job grooming of human resources for industry and research centres to broaden
the science and technology base in the country.

2. Coating
Table 4.8: Types of industrial coatings being produced at PTMAEM
Thickness
(m)

Friction
(fretting
coefficient)

Maximum
usage temperature (oC)

24

1-7

0.55

600

TiAlN Monolayer violet black

35

1-4

0.5

800

TiAlN Multilayer

violet black

28

1-4

0.6

700

TiCN-MP

red-cooper

32

1-4

0.2

400

TiCN

blue-grey

37

1-4

0.2

400

MOVIC

green-grey

0.5 - 1.5

0.15

400

STARVIC

green-grey

32

1.5 - 5.5

0.15

400

CrN

metal-silver

18

1-4

0.3

700

Ti2N

silver

25

1-3

0.45

600

TiAlCN

burgundy-violet

28

1-4

0.25

500

CROMVIC

grey

20

1.5 - 6

0.15

400

CBC (DLC)

grey

20

0.5 - 4

0.15

400

GRADVIC

grey

28

1.5 - 6

0.15

400

AITiN

black

38

1-4

0.7

800

AlTiN

black

38

1-2

0.3

800

AlTiN/SiN

violet blue

45

1-4

0.45

1100

Basic

gold

Nanohardness (GPa)

Special

Coming Properties

TiN

Colour

Breakthrough

Coating

In nanocomposite coatings, different materials (e.g. Ti, Al and Si) are deposited. For
example, two different phases are merged in the plasma nanocrystalline TiAlN will
be embedded into the amorphous Si3N4-matrix. This structure enables extremely
high hardness (40-50 GPa) maintained to high temperatures (up to ~1,100C) even at
a lower Al content (e.g. 50 per cent).
NaCo is one type of nanocomposite coating; NaCo = (nc-AlTiN)/(a-Si3N4) It has
extremely high nano-hardness and high heat resistance. It is available with decorative
blue top layer.
3. Facilities for characterization of coatings
The scope of work of Nano Technology Lab can be classified into two major categories:
industrial help and R&D work.
(a) Industrial use
The facilities of nanotechnology lab can be utilized for the development, synthesis and
characterization of 12 different nanocoatings used in the following industries:

101

Orthopaedic implants and surgical industry TiN being a biocompatible coating is

used in orthopaedic implants and surgical industry where sharpness and edge
retention are important. Because of its attractive metallic colour it is also used for
decorative purposes.
Cutting tool industry TiAlN is being used as a protective hard coating for cutting
tools. High-temperature cutting operations with minimum lubrication are possible
by the use of TiAlN coating. TiAlN is also used for protecting dies and moulds in
medium and hot forging and extrusion industry.
Tool and die industry Diamond-like carbons (DLCs) are extremely hardened nanocomposite coating. These coatings are extremely useful in the tool and die industry
by enhancing the tribological properties of the tools and hence increase their life
manifolds. End mills, drill mills, dies and moulds often use DLC coating in this way.
Textile industry In most of the textile industry, CrN coatings are used. These are
standard coatings for non-cutting applications such as for moulds and dies and for
machining parts, and low deposition temperature is possible (above 220C).

(b) R&D work

It is involved the SPM characterization in the following fields: Solar panels; Ferromagnets; Semiconductors; CNTs embedded in neat epoxy; Stress-induced martensite
formation in super-alloys; and Silicon wafers.

B. Recommendations
1. International collaboration
Pakistan enhances international collaborations to conduct collaborative research efforts
among the member countries in the field of nanotechnology and to provide an
international forum for the following: formulation of broad overall plans; discussion of
programme plans, objectives and progress; debate on programme priorities; and keeping
key members of the research establishments informed of the research work of their
counterparts.
2. Sharing of facilities
Pakistan is an emerging country in the field of nanotechnology, like other developing
countries. The facilities available in the country are quite satisfactory to meet the initial
industrial requirements.
3. Transfer of technology
Pakistan recommends that the process of sharing of skills, knowledge, technologies
and industrialization among member countries and their institutions should ensure
that scientific and technological developments may become accessible to a wider
range of users who can then further develop and exploit nanotechnology into application
of new products, materials and processes.
4. Joint ventures
Joint ventures were proposed between two or more member countries. Seminars and
conferences were also proposed as a continuous activity to keep close relations among
the member countries.

102

VIII. THE PHILIPPINES11

A. DOST Nanotechnology Programme
1. Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
DOST is primarily entrusted with the responsibility of formulating S&T policies and
strategies in the Philippines. It has 21 agencies (5 sectoral planning councils, 7 research
and development Institutes, 7 scientific and technological services institutes and advisory
bodies), 16 regional offices and 78 provincial S&T offices.
2. Philippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research and
Development (PCASTRD)
PCASTRDs mandate is to develop, integrate and coordinate the national research
system for advances in science and technology and related fields. The priority areas
are:
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Biotechnology;
Electronics technology;
Information and communication technology;
Material science polymers and ceramics;
Photonics technology;
Space technology application; and
Nanotechnology.

3. The road map for the development of nanotechnology in the Philippines

Why nanotechnology? Nanotechnology is already in the Philippines. Research in
nanotechnology is essential so that they can explore the potential of the technology.
Nanotechnology is not a completely new field and we are not starting from zero
capabilities. The phenomena at the nanoscale are not predictable from larger scales.
There are new powerful properties that may arise at the nanoscale.
The Philippines is able to apply nanotechnology in the following areas: ICT,
semiconductors, energy, agriculture, food, medicine and environment. Researchers in
the public and private sector, faculty and graduate students do nanotechnology R&D.
PCASTRD-DOST nanotechnology flagship programmes are:
z
z

Chemical sensors and biosensors based on nanostructured materials for agriculture,

food, environment and health monitoring; and
Nanostructured solar energy devices.

(a) Nanotechnology priorities

(i) Nanomaterials and nanocomposites:
11

This paper was presented by Mr. Jovito Rey Gonzales, Senior Science Research
Specialist, Technology Application and Promotion Institutes (TSPI), The Philippines.

103

 Utilization and/or development of synthetic/fabrication processes;

Development of visualization and probing tools; and
Characterization of natural and indigenous nanomaterials.
(ii) Solar energy devices:
Prototypes and local production process technology for portable energy and
off-grid application;
Photovoltaic solar cell devices; and
Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) devices.
(iii) Nano-designed sensors and actuators:
Rapid and early pest and pathogen detection;
Precision agriculture monitoring of agricultural growth parameters; and
Post-harvest quality monitoring (e.g. aflatoxin and other toxins).
(iv) Nano-based delivery system:
Nano-sized formulations of feeds for animals, fertilizers/nutrients for increased
bioavailability and bio-absorption; and
Nano-sized formulations of pesticides, including controlled-release, reduced
dosage due to higher efficacy.
(v) Nanocomposite films and membranes:
Shelf-life extension of fresh and processed produce;
Clarification of juices; and
Virgin whey protein production.
(vi) Nanosensors:
Microfluids diagnostics technology (MDT) for rapid and early disease detection
such as dengue, TB and enteric diseases; and
Optical nanosensors for antibody-antigen conjugates.
(vii) Nanoporous filters:
Water purification for portable water production and wastewater clean-up (heavy
metals, micro-organism, industrial and agricultural residues, etc.).
(viii) Nano-based environmental remediation systems:
Metal nanoparticles for redox reaction for remediation of target pollutants; and
Super-absorbent polymers based on molecular interactions (industrial and waste
spills e.g. oil spills).
(b) PCASTRD-funded nanotechnology related projects
z
z
z
z
z

Development of a nanosensor for antibiotic based on molecularly imprinted polymer

coupled with piezoelectric quartz crystal (ITDI-DOST);
Development of gold (111) and platinum (111) single-crystal substrates for
nanomaterials preparation, characterization and applications (UST);
Synthesis and characterization of carbon-based nanostructures using horizontal
vapour phase deposition (DLSU);
Production of recycled polycarbonate/organoclay nanocomposites (ITDI-DOST);
Imaging of quantum-dot labelled mouse embryos using multi-dimensional spectral
microscopy (UP Diliman);

(c) ERDT-funded nanotechnology-related projects

z

104

Nanomaterials from indigenous sources of the semiconductor and electronics

industry (UP Diliman); and

Production of CNTs in the presence of magnetic field and other external factors by
microwave-enhanced vapour deposition (DLSU)

The project has six funding sources: grants-in-aid, PCASTRD grants-in-aid, other
government funding agencies, private and state universities, industry and collaborative
project with foreign institutions.
PCASTRD has two major human resource components: (1) Scholarships Accelerated
S&T Human Resources Development Programme, PCASTRD scholarship, engineering
R&D for technology, PCASTRD research fellowships, Sandwich Programme,
scholarships from foreign governments and training/collaborative research with foreign
agencies; and (2) The Balik Scientist Programme It encourages overseas Filipino
scientists and technologists to return to the Philippines and share expertise in order to
accelerate the scientific agro-industrial and economic development of the country.

105

IX.

REPUBLIC OF KOREA12
A. Nanotechnology dynamics
During times of economic depression, economists become interested in the
phenomenon of long waves or business cycles. The concept that originated in the19th
century was named after the Russian economist Kondratiev, who in 1925 proposed 50year cycles across a range of economic indicators. It received renewed impetus from
Schumpeters association of the cycles with clusters of innovations that drive growth
until their innovative potential and entrepreneurial drive is exhausted. However, no
satisfactory theoretical base or clear line of causality has been established in the
literature.
Figure 4.5: Schumpeterien Cycles

(Source: www.mbs.ac.uk)

Table 4.9: Number of DTI firms that have invested in nano

Firms from DTI scoreboard

Total

Nano

Percent

Electronic & electrical equipment

103

70

68

Technology hardware & equipment

226

150

66

96

84

88

Pharmaceuticals & biotechnology

153

73

48

Healthcare equipment & services

53

39

74

Automobiles & transport

86

59

69

Aerospace & defence

35

24

69

Materials & construction

55

42

76

Oil, gas & electricity

53

39

74

Food & beverages producers

32

16

50

General industrials

38

24

63

Chemicals

12

This paper was presented by Mr. Jeong Hyop Lee, Science and Technology Policy
Institute (STEPI), Seoul, Republic of Korea.

106

Table 4.9: Number of DTI firms that have invested in nano (Contd...)
Firms from DTI scoreboard

Total

Nano

Percent

Household & personal goods

40

21

53

Industrial engineering

70

35

50

Telecom & media

32

14

44

110

14

13

49

12

1231

710

58

Software & computer services

Banks, insurance, retail, leisure
Total

B. Clustering and its implications

There are 203 world clusters (production 1998-2006).
Figure 4.6: Production clusters of the world

Three complementary ways exist to analyse transformation dynamics:

1. Breakthrough science (which opens new paradigms: Star publications top 1 per
cent of most cited publications);
2. Science industry link (inventions, new deployment): a composite measure (patents/
firms presence in clusters publications/firms in inter-clusters collaborations); and
3. Thematic co-presence (disciplinary hybridization and convergence) three domains
presence and balance.
Clusters clearly appear as anchor points that should be taken into account by national and
supra-national policies. Critical size is a necessary condition, but it should be combined
with thematic coverage of the three scientific fields firms, universities and dedicated
research organizations (national labs) with breakthrough science seen through visibility
and with a balanced institutional composition. Large incumbent firms in existing
industries play a central role raising questions on too large a focus on start-up policies.

107

Figure 4.7: Number of clusters that open out onto other countries

C. Governance South-South implications

The government must consider the following tasks: What are the governance implications
for such a situation? There is a need for a framework for categorizing situations when
multiple industries, and within them different segments, are concerned. What are the
questions for the second generation of National Nanotechnology Initiative? Finally,
there is a need for strong policies calling for new public mechanisms fostering learning
and selection in explorations of convergence.
Figure 4.8: Asias position in nano publications

ASIA
34% total
+272% in 8 years
EUROPE
33% total
+116% in 8 years

NORTH AMERICA
23% total
+130% in 8 years

BRAZIL & RUSSIA

Seconf tier actors

Is South-South collaboration possible? Is there leapfrogging through start-up promotion

in developing countries? It may be noted that incumbent large companies are dominating
nanotechnology-related industries. The aims of the platform for South-South cooperation
in Asia should be to overcome brain-drain through brain-pooling, help the transcontinental
and international networking of clusters and initiate some funding schemes.

108

X.

SRI LANKA13
A. Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC)
SLINTEC envisions being the leading research and innovation platform for sustainable
nanotechnology in Asia. Thereby, it aims to transform Sri Lanka into a strong
nanotechnology-focused nation. SLINTEC is the R&D arm or incubator while the
commercial production facility is NANCO. Nanotechnology Centre and Science Park
is set up at NANCO (over 50 acres of land at Homagama).
Table 4.10: Milestones of SLINTEC

The concept

May 2006

The birth

August 2006

Incorporation

April 2008

Leadership team

December 2008

Equipment/technical evaluation

December 2008 January 2009

Board approval and government funding

April 2009

Equipment installation

July/August 2009

Science projects commencement

August 2009

Innovation/patents and IP

2010 onwards

SLINTEC and its five joint venture partners, who have invested their own funds in the
start-up and have received positions in the SLINTEC Board, have defined specific projects
that SLINTEC should be focusing on. They drive the policy and direction of SLINTEC.
1. Brandix Lanka Ltd.
Brandix Lanka is the largest exporter of apparels in Sri Lanka. It has invested in R&D
projects focusing on integrating nanotechnology into clothing materials. As the holding
company of the Brandix Group of companies, it is engaged in developing manufacturing
and marketing end-to-end apparel solutions to global fashion super brands: Victorias
Secret, Gap, Marks & Spencer, Liz Claiborne, Abercrombie and Fitch.
2. Dialog Telecom Plc.
Dialog Telecom is Sri Lankas flagship telecommunications service provider that operates
Dialog Mobile this is the largest mobile network in the country. Dialog Telecom is
one of the largest companies on the Colombo Stock Exchange in terms of market
capitalization, valued at SL Rs 116.05 billion (2008). SLINTEC conducts projects for

13

This paper was presented by Prof. Ajith de Alwis, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology
(SLINTEC), Sri Lanka.

109

the development of sustainable energy sources for the telecom services. These projects
are invested in by Dialog Telecom (Pvt.) Ltd., the owner of the largest mobile phone
network in Sri Lanka.
3. Hayleys Plc.
Hayleys is one of the largest multinational companies based in Sri Lanka. Hayleys
has grown from a small proprietorship in Sri Lankas southern city of Galle into one of
the largest and most diversified public companies in Sri Lanka. The 130-year Hayleys
history traverses the tapestry of time, changing with it and taking shape from it. Today,
Hayleys is a Sri Lankan multinational conglomerate with business categorized into
global markets and manufacturing, agriculture and agri-business, transportation and
infrastructure, and consumables and leisure areas in which the group is renowned,
both globally and locally. Investments made by Hayleys for R&D, revolve around agro,
rubber and coconut products.
4. Loadstar Ltd.
Loadstar, one of the worlds largest manufacturers of rubberized tracks and specialized
tyres, has R&D activity with the application of nano-enhanced rubber products. It was
incorporated in 1984 as a joint venture between the Jinasena Group of Companies
(JGC) in Sri Lanka and Solideal Ltd. (SDL) of Belgium. The joint venture has brought
together JGCs proven engineering and management skills, and SDLs technical knowhow in tyre design and production as well as the global product marketing capability.
As per the joint venture agreement entered into between the partners, the local
collaborator largely handles the production and the engineering functions of the
operations while the foreign collaborator handles the designing and marketing functions
of the products.
5. MAS Holdings Plc.
MAS Holdings a globally recognized name in the manufacture of intimate apparel
and competition sportswear funds SLINTECs research efforts on the infusion of
nanotechnology into clothing materials. MAS Holdings is one of the premier apparel
companies in Sri Lanka. Founded in 1986, it provides innovative design-to-delivery
solutions in intimate apparel and sportswear through its MAS Intimates and MAS
Active divisions. South Asias largest intimate apparel manufacturer and the regions
most rapidly growing provider of competition sportswear, the Sri Lankan company
currently holds a portfolio of 28 world-class facilities and design studios across five
countries employing over 45,000 people.
6. National Science Foundation (NSF)
NSF succeeded the National Resources Energy and Science Authority of Sri Lanka in
1998. By the special relationship SLINTEC shares with NSF, SLINTEC seeks to empower
the research community of Sri Lanka by enabling them to access state-of-the-art R&D
infrastructure, as well as supporting projects of national importance. Its aim is to initiate,
facilitate and support basic and applied scientific research by universities, science
and technology institutions and scientists, with a view to: strengthening scientific
research potential, including research in the social sciences, and scientific education
programmes; developing the natural resources of Sri Lanka; promoting the welfare of
the people of Sri Lanka; and training research personnel in science and technology.

110

B. SLINTEC vision and differentiation

SLINTEC builds upon the global values of economic, environmental and social
sustainability and takes a step further to the initiative by applying a strict nounsustainable project policy. Every project accepted by SLINTEC will be scrutinized
for both short-term and long-term sustainability. At SLINTEC, advanced research is
continually conducted into applying situational safety measures for effective control of
these hazards, providing a self-sustained environment for safe research within the
facility. The vision of SLINTEC is to become the leading research and innovation platform
for sustainable nanotechnology in Asia.
SLINTEC also incorporates the fourth pillar of sustainability through its vision for a
boundary-less and research-friendly society while upholding the values and traditions
that made Sri Lanka. Furthermore:
1. Social sustainability (Equity) SLINTEC will not progress projects that will risk
social sustainability in terms of equity and social security.
2. Environmental sustainability (Ecology) SLINTEC will only progress projects that
contribute to environmental sustainability.
3. Economic sustainability (Economic) Every SLINTEC project must contribute to
economic sustainability by enhancing global competitiveness and strategic
differentiation.
Figure 4.9: SLINTECs fourth pillar of sustainability

Economic
growth

Socioeconomics

Ecoefficiency

Sustainability
Social
progress

Socioenvironmental

Entrepreneurial
stewardship

The goal of SINTEC is to exploit Sri Lankas natural resources for nano applications
(e.g. titanium, graphite, activated carbon). It wants to reverse the brain-drain into braingain and create know-how, IP and patents 2 by 2010, 6 by 2011 and 10 by 2012. It
delivers a sustainable nanotechnology for global competitiveness of the Sri Lankan
industry.

111

According to the World Bank Report (2009) the SLINTEC model is: Leveraging high
technology to drive innovation and competitiveness in key export industries & building
the Sri Lankan knowledge economy.
Nanotechnology will help Sri Lankan industries to gain and retain a competitive advantage
and it can draw intellectual capital through the international talent pool. There is a
strong effort in Concept to Commercialization. The government must strengthen the
public-private partnership.
The research focuses of SLINTEC are:
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Textile and apparel;

Solid tyres;
Fertilizer;
Rubber gloves;
Activated carbon;
Biosensors;
Blue sky project; and
Nanomaterials.

Nanotechnology in the apparel industry is already in use today. From stainless textiles
to antibacterial clothing, nanotechnology is incorporated into garments to develop smart
clothes.

C. Conclusions
Scientists can make a massive difference in national development by helping to exploit
good technologies. Nanotechnology should be implemented with care in synergy with
the environment and life-cycle analysis. Nanotechnology is still in the infancy stage
where the big breakthroughs could appear in any nation at any time. The government
through SLINTEC/NANCO has supported nanotechnology technopreneurship.
The potential in nanotechnology is huge and the scientists need to strive to make
Made in Sri Lanka a quality label in nanotechnology.

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XI.

THAILAND14
A. Introduction
The advent of revolutionary atomic and molecular-level engineering, or so-called nanotechnology, is expected to have a major influence in the future development of science
and technology. The Thai government has realized the importance of this emerging
field. Thus, the National Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC) was founded in August
2003 as an autonomous agency under the umbrella of the National Science and
Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST).

B. National Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC)

NANOTECs vision is to create nanotechnologies that would enrich Thai industries,
give rise to niche innovative products, processes and competitiveness in the global
market. NANOTECs missions are to promote, establish, deploy and support the
development of new research innovations, technology transfer, human resource
development and S&T infrastructure.
The main objectives of NANOTEC are to:
z
z
z
z

Conduct and promote R&D in nanotechnology as enabling tools to improve the

competitiveness of Thai industries;
Develop well-trained human resources in the field of nanotechnology;
Establish R&D collaboration among academics, industry and government both
on a national level and internationally; and
Promote public awareness and understanding of nanotechnology.

Since its inception, NANOTEC has played two major roles as a national R&D centre
for science, technology and policy and as a granting agency for R&D in nanotechnology.
It has now become the central institution for funding for R&D on this front, nationally. In
addition to pushing forward its own R&D, the centre also provides services in nanoscale
measurement and characterization using state-of-the-art equipment to the academics,
industry and government.
1. National Nanotechnology Policy Committee
NANOTEC serves as the Secretariat of National Nanotechnology Policy Committee
chaired by the Prime Minister.
2. Nanotechnology road map
NANOTEC provides direction, strategy, research plan and development of nanotechnology focusing on three platforms.

14

This paper was presented by Dr. Nuttrapu Supaka, Head of Testing and Services
Laboratory, National Nanotechnology Centre, Thailand.

113

3. Nanosafety
NANOTEC established the Risk Assessment and Nanosafety Subcommittee. Its tasks
are to:
Figure 4.10: National Science and Technology Development Agency

NSTDA Board
chaired by Minister of Science and Technology

NSTDA

BIOTEC

MTEC

TMC
NSTDA
BIOTEC
MTEC
NECTEC
TMC
z
z
z

NECTEC

NANOTEC

: National Science and Technology Development Agency

: National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
: National Metal and Materials Technology Centre
: National Nanotechnology Centre
: Technology Management Centre

Analyse situation and risk assessment as well as provide strategic plan on

nanosafety and risk;
Provide information on regulations, standards or procedures of nanosafety to key
stakeholders;
Collaborate with national and international organizations to ensure the capability
of Thailand Safety Regulation and Nanotechnology Risk Assessment in compliance
with international regulations; and
Provide information and cooperate in transfer of knowledge or instructions of
assessment to the public.

NANOTEC has: (1) in-house central laboratory, including 11 labs, 65 scientists and
200 other staff; (2) University-based Centres of Excellence (COEs) in eight leading
universities, focused networks on textile (in three universities), cosmeceuticals (in five
universities) and computational nanosciences; and (3) research grants to universities
and other agencies in about eight projects and further 20 new projects in 2009.
NANOTEC operates 11 laboratories in Thailand Science Park:

114

z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Hybrid nanostructure and nanocomposites (NanoHybrid);

Nanomaterials for energy and catalysis (Nano-MEC);
Nano-cosmeceuticals (NanoCosme);
Nano delivery system (NanoDelivery);
Nanomolecular Target Discovery (Target Discovery);
Nano safety and risk assessment (NanoSafety);
Nanomolecular sensor (NanoSens);
Nanoscale simulation (NanoSim);
Organic nanodevice (NanoOrg);
Testing and service laboratory (TSL); and
Bi-component spinning fibre pilot plant.
Table 4.11: NANOTECs focus areas
Textile

Cosmeceuticals

Healthcare

Technical and
functional

Nano-emulsion and
nano-capsule

Bio-component fibre
(pilot scale)
Application

Skin care
nanoemulsion with
Thai herbs service

Medical therapeutics of important

diseases

Medical

Controlled/
sustained release
technology

application
Apparels and nonconventional
Nano-encapsulation

Drug delivery
system

Targeted
applications
Organic solar
cell
Environmental
sensors
Diagnostics

Specific targeting
Food packaging

Nano-coating

Functional nano-structure

Nano-measurements and Nano-characterizations

Nano-Safety and risk Management

The output of NANOTECH in 2009 was: (1) published 92 articles in international journals;
(2) filed 21 patents (mostly domestic); (3) signed 14 contracts with industries; (4)
engaged in 57 discussions with industries; (5) provided services to industry/labs
(~13,000 tests); and (6) added two key infrastructure for Thailand.

Box 4.4: Example of research outputs

Application of nanocoating in textile industry The fibre processing steps are: fibre
yarn fabric finishing fabric textile products. The first step is to make the
fibre. It has to be multi-functional, bi-component and the composites are antibacterial,
anti-ultraviolet, anti-static, water repellent and moisture management.
Nanoparticle can be applied to cotton and silk for nano jacket, nano scarf, nano
necktie, etc.

115

Through technology transfer process, NANOTECH endeavours to provide industrial

technology solutions to collaborative research/contract research projects; promote
and manage licensing of R&D results of NANOTEC in-house, CoEs and externally
funded projects; and provide knowledge and understanding on nanotechnology through
training and public communication programmes for industries, general public, and school/
university students.
Figure 4.11: National collaboration

Standards

Regulation

Thai Industrial Standards

Institute (TISI)

Food and Drug Administration (Thai-FDA)

Office of Consumer Protection Board (OCPB)

Testing Labs
Metrology
National Institute of Metrology
Thailand (NIMT)

National Electronics and Computer Technology

Centre
National Metal and Materials Technology
Centre
National Synchrotron Research Centre (NSRC)
Thailand Textile Institute (THTI)

NANOTECH, as an education project, organizes nanotechnology training in the SouthEast Asia region. The objectives are to transfer and exchange nanotechnology
knowledge to the South-East Asia region, encourage nanotechnology education system
in the region and build nanotechnology network and collaboration in the region.
Nanotechnology is expected to be one of the most important technologies of this
century because it offers solutions to a variety of health and environment problems.
Moreover, new nanomaterials and nanodevices will have a major impact on many areas
of the global economy. Nanotechnologies have potential applications in many areas.

116

PANEL DISCUSSION
During the discussion by the panel, it was clarified that university investment comes
not only from its own funds, but also from national and regional governments as well.
Mr. M. Molanejad from the Islamic Republic of Iran informed that several international
collaborations are under way in his country based on the activity of individual researchers.
The Republic of Korea described its collaboration with Japanese universities. For
example, it is working with Kyoto University to where students and researchers are
sent regularly.
It was noted that but in his presentation Mr. Ramesh Singh Pradhan from Nepal focused
on the domestic scenario, while Nepal has many excellent researchers working on an
international level in countries such as the Republic of Korea, Japan, Germany and the
United States.
Mr. Mogyorosi mentioned that while Hungary has not yet commercialized any of its
technologies in Pakistan, it is open to such action.
Prof. de Alwis from Sri Lanka mentioned that the countrys garment industry had secured
a contract for making Phelbs swimming suit using nanotechnology.
Box 4.5: The Knowledge Vine

The Knowledge Vine is an initiative launched by the University of Manchester

Intellectual Property, a member of the European Association for the Transfer of
Technology, Innovation and Industrial Information (TII). The University operates a TII
platform that brings together a number of regional-based and international user groups
specializing in different areas such as SME support and research commercialization.
The TII Knowledge Vine Group is reserved and exclusively for TII members and
focuses on:
z

Identifying industrial and research partners at the European level for projects in
the making;
z Tracking down new technologies and technical expertise across frontiers; and
z Seeking technical or market research information for technology commercialization
and innovation projects.
Members have to register on the website and after activation they can select the
group they wish to join. Any question from a member could be e-mailed to the TII
community. If anyone of the group knows the answer or can give a helpful lead, they
will contact the questioner directly.
(Source: www.knowledgevine.net)

The keynote speakers gave some important suggestions:

1. Research institutes can share the results and APCTT-ESCAP has a platform to
where everyone can upload relevant information.

117

2. ESCAP has signed MoU with Asian Institute of technology. APCTT-ESCAP should
implement the programme and transfer nanotechnology knowledge in the AsiaPacific region.
3. It is necessary to build a nanotechnology network in Asia enhancing the SouthSouth cooperation.
4. Mr. Mogyorosi introduced Knowledge Vine as a good tool for finding solutions.
5. According to the Indian speaker, technologies that are socially relevant (especially
open source) should be circulated by APCTT-ESCAP.
6. Business models are needed to be able to take simple technologies available. Mr.
K. Ramanathan mentioned that the platform is available; it can be accessible to
everyone. Mr. K. Ramanathan stressed that it would be a good idea to undertake
a research study in the region, involving 15-20 countries.

118

CONCLUSIONS
Nanotechnologies have potential applications in many areas. Nanophase and
nanostructured materials, a new branch of materials research, are attracting a great
deal of attention because of their potential applications in areas such as electronics,
optics, drug development, precise disease diagnosis, targeted drug delivery, artificial
medical implants, catalysis, ceramics, information and communication technologies,
water decontamination and arsenic mitigation, environmental protection by reducing
carbon dioxide emission, reduction of energy consumption, renewable energy,
nanocomposites and production of stronger and lighter materials and many other
important applications. The unique properties and the improved performances of
nanomaterials are determined by their sizes, surface structures and interparticle
interactions.
At the end of the workshop, the keynote speakers made some conclusions. According
to Mr. Molanejad from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Asian countries needed to explore
cooperation and collaboration opportunities in commercialization, joint ventures, R&D,
markets and resources. It was pointed out that in Singapore, ANF had carried out
extensive networking, and their website had a lot of data by member countries subsites. ANF was already working together with APCTT-ESCAP to complement each
other and to share information. Mr. Ramanathan emphasized the need to assess
availability to not duplicate what has already been done.
Mr. Lee summarized different nanotech commercialization models presented by the
member countries, including (1) Indonesias green and international cooperation and
global value chain strategy, (2) Pakistans industry outreach and extension strategy
and (3) Sri Lankas private-public partnership strategy. Mr. Molanejad suggested
conducting of nanotechnology regional road mapping, and stated that he could seek
funding from the Iranian government to execute this initiative. Suggestions were also
raised about conducting joint R&D project that would require experts and funding support.
The suggestions of the speakers were that each participating country should use the
APCTT-ESCAP platform. Furthermore, there is a need for training programmes (to
incorporate industrial dimension) and research projects in the South-East Asia.
Mr. K. Ramanathan concluded the event with the following suggestion: We should
work in partnership with existing networks to leverage what has been accomplished so
that developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region can apply nanotechnology
innovatively to improve the quality of life of its citizens while enabling local industries
and businesses to be able to compete better in todays global business setting.

119

120

ANNEXES

121

I.

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
BANGLADESH
Mr. Muhammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Science and Information
and Communication Technology (MOSICT), Bangladesh Secretariat, Dhaka 1000,
Bangladesh. [Tel: +880-2-7162612 (O); +880-2-8114085 (R); 01711-064973 (M); Email: mahfuz59@yahoo.com]
INDIA
Mr. R.R. Abhyankar, Scientist G and Head, TPDU, Department of Scientific and Industrial
Research (DSIR), Ministry of Science and Technology, Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli
Road, New Delhi 110 0016, India. [Tel: +91-11-26863805 (O); +91-11-23235094 (R);
Fax: +91-11-6529745; E-mail: rra@nic.in]
INDONESIA
Mr. Bambang Subiyanto, Director, Centre for Innovation, Indonesian Institute of Sciences,
Jl. Jenderal Gatot Subroto No. 10, Jakarta 12710, Indonesia. [Tel: +62-21-5276028;
Fax: +62-21-5276024; E-mail: bambang@inovasi.lipi.go.id]
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN
Mr. Mahmoud Molanejad, Director of International Cooperation, Iranian Research
Organization for Science and Technology (IROST), Ministry of Science, Research and
Technology, No. 71, Shahid Mousavi (Forsat) St., Enghelab Avenue, Tehran 15819,
Islamic Republic of Iran. [Tel: +98-21-88828051-7, 88838336; Fax: +98-21-88838336;
E-mail: mmolanezhad@yahoo.com]
MALAYSIA
Mr. Radin Zulhazmi Bin Radin Abdul Halim, Principal Assistant Secretary, Industry
Division, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Level 2, Block C4,
Complex C, Federal Government Administration Centre, 62662 Putrajaya, Malaysia.
[Tel: +60-388858353 (O); 6012-2252595 (M); Fax: +60-3-88892996; E-mail:
radin@mosti.gov.my]
NEPAL
Mr. Ramesh Singh Pradhan, Executive Director, Research Centre for Applied Science
and Technology (RECAST), Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal. [Tel: +9771-4330348 (O); +977-1-44330037 (R); +977-9841337618 (M); Fax: +977-1-4331303;
E-mail: rsp@mos.com.np; turecast@mail.com.np]
PAKISTAN
Mr. Shahzad Alam, Director General, Pakistan Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (PCSIR), Ferozpur Road, Lahore, Pakistan. [Tel: +92-42-9230202 (O); 923004212292 (M); +92-42-5435588 (R); E-mail: pitmaem@brain.net.pk]
THE PHILIPPINES
Mr. Jovito Rey Gonzales, Senior Science Research Specialist, Technology Application
and Promotion Institutes (TSPI), General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, The
Philippines. [Tel. +63-2-8381140; +63-2-821-6861 (R); 63920-6659748 (M); Fax. +632-8381140; E-mail: ovirey@yahoo.com]

122

REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Mr. Jeong Hyop Lee, Science and Technology Policy Institute (STEPI), 26th Floor,
Speciality Construction Centre 395-70 Shindaebang-dong, Tongjak-ku, Seoul 156-714,
Republic of Korea. [Tel: +82-2-3284-1814 (O); +82-70-8248-2653 (R); Fax: +82-2-8498013; E-mails: jhlee@stepi.re.kr; ejkim@stepi.re.kr]
SRI LANKA
Mr. Ajith de Alwis, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC), Lot 14, Zone 1,
Biyagama Export Processing Zone, Walgama, Malwana. [Tel: +94-11-4650506; Fax:
+94-11-4741995, E-mail: info@susnanotec.lk]
THAILAND
Mr. Chainarong Cherdchu, Head, Department of Chemical Metrology and Biometry,
National Institute of Metrology, 3/4-5 Klong 5, Klong Luang Pathumthani 12120,
Thailand. [Tel: +66-25775100; 66-899674292 (M); Fax: +66-2-5775094; E-mail:
chainarong@nimt.or.th]
Mr. Sannop Nakwanit, Senior Policy and Planning Analyst, Office of the Permanent
Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Rama VI Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok
10400, Thailand. [Tel: 66-2-3544466 Ext. 615; +66-2-5878180 (R); Fax: +66-2-3543712;
E-mail sannop@most.go.th]
Mr. Nuttrapu Supaka, Head of Testing and Services Laboratory, National Nanotechnology
Centre (NANOTEC), National S&T Development Agency (NSTDA), 130 Thailand Science
Park, Paholyothin Rd., Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand. [Tel: +66-2-5647100;
Fax: +66-2-5646985; E-mail: nuttapun@nanotec.or.th]

RESOURCE PERSONS
Mr. Sishen Xie, Professor, Member of CAS and Fellow of TWAS, Institute of Physics,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.8, South 3rd St., Zhong Guangcun, Beijing 100190,
China. [Tel. 86-10-82649081 (O); 86-10-82661267 (R); Fax. 86-10-82640215; E-mail:
ssxie@aphy.iphy.ac.cn]
Mr. Peter Pal Mogyorosi, Director, Laser Consult Ltd., H-6723 Szeged, Jzsef A. sgt.
130, Postal address: H-6701 Szeged, Pf. 1191, Hungary. [Tel. 36-62-562-784; Mobile:
+36-30-450-00-41; Fax. +36-62-562-783; E-mail. laserconsult@t-online.hu]
Mr. Khosrow Rostami, Professor, Iranian Research Organization for Science and
Technology (IROST), No.27, (71) Forsat Street, Enghelab Ave., Tehran, Iran. [Tel. 98228-2276636 (O); 98-21-88739761 (R); Fax. 98-228-2276636; E-mail:
rostami2002@yahoo.com]
Mr. Sang Ki Jeong, Director, R&D Budget Coordination Division, Korea Institute of S&T
Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP), 9F Dongwon Industry Building, 68 Mabang-gil
Seocho-gu 137-130, Republic of Korea. [Tel. 82-2-5892249 (O); 82-10-31321682 (R);
Fax. 82-2-5892810; E-mail. sjeong@kistep.re.kr]
Ms. Lerwen Liu, Managing Director, NanoGlobe Pte Ltd., 10 Anson Road, #09-24
International Plaza, Singapore 079903, Singapore. [Tel. 65-6408-8000 (O); 65-98560483
(R); Fax. 65-6408-8001; E-mail. lerwen@nano-globe.biz]
Mr. Veranja Karunaratne, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC), Lot 14,
Zone 1, Biyagama Export Processing Zone, Walgama, Malwana. [Tel: +94-11-4650506;
Fax: +94-11-4741995; E-mail: info@susnanotec.lk]

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APCTT-ESCAP SECRETARIAT
Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head, Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTTESCAP), APCTT Building, Qutab Institutional Area, P.O. Box 4575, New Delhi 110
016, India. [Tel: +91-11-26856255 (D); Fax: +91-11-26856274; E-mail:
kramanathan@apctt.org]
Mr. N. Srinivasan, Professional Assistant, In-Charge, Innovation Management Group,
Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT-ESCAP), APCTT Building,
Qutab Institutional Area, P.O. Box 4575, New Delhi 110 016, India. [Tel. 91-11-26856255;
Fax. 91-11-26856274; E-mail: srini@apctt.org]
Mr. N. Suryaprakash, Administrative Assistant, Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer
of Technology (APCTT-ESCAP), APCTT Building, Qutab Institutional Area, P.O. Box
4575, New Delhi 110 016, India. [Tel. 91-11-26856255; Fax. 91-11-26857897; E-mail:
nsprakash@apctt.org]
Ms. Shailey Rego, Staff Assistant, Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology
(APCTT-ESCAP), APCTT Building, Qutab Institutional Area, P.O. Box 4575, New Delhi
110 016, India. [Tel. 91-11-26856255; Fax. 91-11-26857897; E-mail:
shailey.rego@apctt.org]

SPECIAL INVITEES FROM SRI LANKA

Prof. Sirimali Fernando, Chairperson of the Board, National Science Foundation,
Colombo, Sri Lanka. [Tel: +94-11-2691691; Fax: +94-11-2691691; E-mail:
chm@nsf.ac.lk]
Dr. Lilantha Samaranayake, Senior Scientist, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology
(Pvt) Ltd., Biyagama Export Processing Zone, Walgama, Malwana.
Dr. Jeewantha Premaratne, Senior Scientist, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology
(Pvt) Ltd., Biyagama Export Processing Zone, Walgama, Malwana.
Dr. Nilwala Kottegoda, Manager-Research & Analytical Service, Sri Lanka Institute of
Nanotechnology (Pvt) Ltd., Biyagama Export Processing Zone, Walgama, Malwana.
Dr. J.A.P. Bodhika, Lecturer, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sabaragamuwa,
P.O. Box 02, Belihuloya 70140.
Dr. D.H.R.J. Wimalasiri, Senior Lecturer , The Open University of Sri Lanka, P.O. Box
21, Nawala, Nugegoda.
Prof. C.A.N. Fernando, Professor/Chair, Department of Electronics, Faculty of Applied
Sciences, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Kuliyapitiya.
Mr. J.T.S. Motha, Head, Materials Technology Section, Industrial Technology Institute
(ITI), P.O. Box 787, 363, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7.
Mr. Shantha Siri, Scientific Officer, Coordinator of National Nanotechnology Committee
of NSF, National Science Foundation, 47/5, Maitland Place, Colombo 07.
Ms. S.S. Kulatunge, Head, Radiation Processing Section , Atomic Energy Authority,
60/460, Baseline Road, Orugodawatta, Wellampitiya, Colombo.
Mr. K.R.C. de Silva, Scientific Officer, Radiation Processing Section, Atomic Energy
Authority, 60/460, Baseline Road, Orugodawatta, Wellampitiya, Colombo.

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Dr. Chandrika Perera, Senior Research Officer, Coconut Research Institute, Bandirippuwa
Estate, Lunuwila.
Dr. L.M.M.P. Liyanagedara, Scientific Programme Manager, National Science &
Technology Commission, No. 223 C, Nawala Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05.
Mr. G.A. Kularatne, Loadstar (pvt) Ltd. No. 218, Minuwangoda Road, Ekala, Ja Ela.
Mr. Dr. Jinasena Hewage, University of Ruhuna, Matara.
Dr. Rohan Munasinghe, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda, Moratuwa.
Mr. Epa Dayarathna, Director, Ministry of Industrial Development, P.O. Box 570, 73/1,
Galle Road, Colombo 03.
Dr. P. Ravirajan, Senior Lecturer in Physics, Department of Physics , University of
Jaffna, P.O. Box 57, Thirunelvely, Jaffna.
Mrs. Q.Y. Soundararajah, Head, Dept. of Physics, Eastern University, Batticaloa.
Eng. Sanath Panawennage, Director & Chief Executive Officer, Arthur C Clarke Institute
for Modern Technologies, Katubedda, Moratuwa.
Ms. Thilakshi Yasaratne, Standards Engineer, Sri Lanka Standards Institution , No.
17, Victoria Place, Elvitigala Mw, Colombo 08.
Mr. B. A. Kumarasiri, Industrial Development Board of Ceylon, 615, Galle Road,
Katubedda, Moratuwa.
Eng. G. B. Wimalaratne, Deputy General Manager (Projects), National Engineering
Research & Development Centre , Ekala, Ja Ela.
Eng. A. H. Piyasiri, Head, Renewable Energy Dept., National Engineering Research &
Development Centre, Ekala, Ja Ela.
Mr. W.W.P.K. Perera, Civil Engineer, National Engineering Research & Development
Centre, Ekala, Ja Ela.
Ms. K. Upuli Chathurika Perera, Chemical Engineer, National Engineering Research &
Development Centre, Ekala, Ja Ela.
Ms. U.T.G.N.S.K. Wijesinghe, Mechanical Engineer, National Engineering Research
& Development Centre, Ekala, Ja Ela.

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II.

PROGRAMME
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
08.30 - 09.00

Registration of participants

09.00 - 10.00

Inaugural Session
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Welcome Address by Mr. L.P. Jayasinghe, Director, NERD

Centre, Sri Lanka
Inaugural address by Prof. Tissa Vitharana, Minister of
Science & Technology, Government of Sri Lanka
Address by Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head, APCTT-ESCAP, India
Vote of thanks by Mr. M.W. Leelaratne, Managing Director,
NERD Centre, Sri Lanka

10.00 - 10.30

Coffee/tea break

10.30 12.45

Session I: Global overview of innovations in nanotechnology

(Chairperson: Ms. Sirimali Fernando, NERD Centre, Sri Lanka)

10.30 11.00

Nanotechnology for development: A technological and social

perspective
Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head, APCTT-ESCAP, India

11.00 12. 00

Nanotechnology and its industrial applications, and case study of

nanotechnology innovation systems
Mr. Peter Mogyorosi, Director, Laser Consult, Hungary

12.00 12.45

Commercialization of nanotechnology case studies

Ms. Lerwen Liu, Managing Director, NanoGlobe Pte Ltd.,
Singapore

12:45 13.00

Discussion

13.00 14.00

Lunch

14.00 16.00

Session II: National overview of nanotechnology: status and

peasures to promote innovation
(Chairperson: Mr. Veranja Karunaratne, SLINTEC, Sri Lanka)

14:00 14:45

Mr. Sishen Xie, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of

Sciences, Beijing, People Republic of China

14:45 15:30

Discussion

15.30 16.00

Coffee/Tea break

16:00 19:00

Field visit to Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC)

Thursday, 3 December 2009

126

09.00 11.15

Session II: National overview of nanotechnology: status and

measures to promote innovation (cont.)
(Chairperson: Mr. Jayantha Ranatunga, NERD Centre, Sri Lanka)

09.00 09.45

Mr. Veranja Karunaratne, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology

(SLINTEC), Colombo, Sri Lanka

09.45 10.30

Mr. Khosrow Rostami, Iranian Research Organization for Science

and Technology (IROST), Islamic Republic of Iran

10.30 11.15

Mr. Sang Ki Jeong, Research Fellow, Korea Institute of Science

and Technology Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP), Republic of
Korea

11.15 11.30

Coffee/tea break

11.30 13.00

Session III: National policies and institutional infrastructure

(Chairperson: Prof. Sishen Xie, China)

11:30 11:45

Mr. Muhammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Deputy Secretary, Ministry of

Science and ICT (MOSICT), Bangladesh

11:45 12:05

Mr. R.R. Abhyankar, Scientist G and Head, RDI, Department of

Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and
Technology, India

12:05 12:25

Mr. Bambang Subiyanto, Director, Centre for Innovation,

Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Indonesia

12:30 12:45

Mr. M. Molanejad, Director, International Cooperation, IROST,

Islamic Republic of Iran

12:45 13:00

Mr. Radin Zulhazmi Bin Raden Abdul Halim, Principal Assistant

Secretary, Industry Division, Ministry of Science, Technology and
Innovation (MOSTI), Malaysia

13:00 14:00

Lunch

14:00 15:45

Session III: National policies and institutional infrastructure

(cont.)
(Chairperson: Dr. Sang Ki Jeong, Republic of Korea)

14:00 14:15

Mr. Ramesh Singh Pradhan, Executive Director, Research Centre

for Applied Science and technology (RECAST), Nepal

14:15 14: 30

Mr. Shahzad Alam, Director General, Pakistan Council for

Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), Pakistan

14:30 14:45

Mr. Jovito Rey Gonzales, Senior Science Research Specialist,

Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI), Philippines

14:45 15:00

Mr. Ajith de Alwis, Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology

(SLINTEC), Sri Lanka

15:00 15:15

Mr. Nuttapru Supaka, Head of Testing and Services Laboratory,

National Nanotechnology Centre, Thailand

15:15 15:30

Mr. Jeong Hyop Lee, Science and Technology Policy Institute

(STEPI), Seoul, Republic of Korea

15:30 16:00

Coffee/tea break

16:00 16:45

Session IV: Panel discussion

(Chairperson: Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head, APCTT-ESCAP)

16:45 17:15

Session V: Conclusions and recommendations

(Chairperson: Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head, APCTT-ESCAP)
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Discussion on major issues and challenges on fostering

innovation in nanotechnology
Summary of major recommendations
Closing remarks (APCTT-ESCAP and NERD Centre)

127