Nano is the way to go, say scientists

HYDERABAD: Nanotechnology has been able to considerably reduce the size and weight of engineering equipment leading to significant increase in efficiency of engineering systems and in turn creating an impact on the economy. Keeping this in view, the University of South Africa (UNISA) in collaboration with Hyderabad’s Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology is organising an international conference on ‘Nanotechnology and Functional Materials’ from Jan 4 to 7, at the institute’s campus in the city. Stressing the fact that the Government of India has allocated `1000 crore for research in this field under a scheme called Nano Mission, Prof V Vasudeva Rao, principal of Sreenidhi institute and chairman of the conference, said, “This conference assumes significance in the light of the tripartite agreement between the governments of India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) and the diverse international participation”.Scholars from a number of countries like the USA, the UK, Germany, Mexico, South Africa and Malaysia would present around 105 papers covering several theme areas and applications of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology like nanothermal fluids, nanomechanics, fuel cells, regenerants, nanophysics, nanobiotechnology. “We firmly believe that the interaction between international scholars and exchange of ideas and knowledge during the conference would be of great help to current researches and others who would like to pursue R&D activity in this field,”said Prof VV Srinivasu, who represents the University of South Africa. Asked about the developments and trends in the international scene, Dr RG Reddy, professor of Metallurgy and Material Science at the University of Alabama, USA, said, it was bio-engineering and solar energy which are going to be the most promising beneficiaries from researches in the field of nanotechnology. A few of the common man’s applications, according to him, include water purification.“India’s contributions in the field are substantial. Nano silver-coated candles in water filters is a patented concept by an Indian institute called ARCI, the product is a success in the market,” said Prof Rao.Terming relations with India as special, Prof Mamokgethi Setati, vice-principal of the University of South Africa said nanotechnology is a promise for the future. “We are definitely looking forward for collaboration with Indian scientists,” she said.