Small Talk

Updated on: Monday, December 28, 2009

Nanotechnology can be used to generate a range of socio-economic benefits through collaboration and interdisciplinary research. Proyashi Barua NANOTECHNOLOGY is the engineering of functional systems at the molecular scale. Contrary to common perception, nanotechnology is not a new technology and has been in use since the Roman era.

"The contemporary essence and potential of nanotechnology can be understood in the context of manufacturing. Nanotechnology entails manufacturing at the nano level wherein per-capita consumption of useful materials is significantly reduced. This in turn can help in reducing costs and achieving economies of scale. Moreover, at the nano stage, matter is at its purest form. Hence, nanotechnology is all about manufacturing products that are free of defect," says J Narayan, department of material sciences and engineering, North Carolina State University, US.

According to Narayan, current collaborations among countries in this field exist in the fundamental area of information exchange. 'However, there is scope for collaborating in terms of the actual manufacturing process and for discussing future areas of application," he shares.

Alain Cappy, professor, University of Science and Technology, Lille, and chairman of C'Nano Group, France, adds, "Nanotechnology has to move beyond the confines of a laboratory to make a mark in industry. Research and development in this domain has to be socially responsible . Such activities necessitate collaborations between educational institutions, policy organisations and industries at the global level."

As to how collaborations with foreign universities can help in improving research in nanoscience and nanotechnology, MP Singh, director, Ansal Institute of Technology, says, "A nucleus of select institutes can be created through research collaborations. This nucleus should ideally facilitate scholarly interaction between international conferences, seminars and workshops."

Nanotechnology has significantly impacted the domain of information technology by generating novel semiconductors and displays, nanologics and quantum computers. It plays a role in the food industry too. Its applications have wide ranging aspects including diagnosis and treatment of disease, drug delivery and conservation of energy and environment, to name a few areas.

Given its cost effective proposition, nanotechnology holds promise for developing countries. However, most of these countries lag behind developed nations as far as discussions and explorations in this field are concerned. Addressing this concern, Cappy says, "The best way is probably to strengthen human relations between scientists of underdeveloped, developing and developed nations. Education of young scientists in the best labs of developed nations is also a good idea. These scientists can eventually return to their countries to apply their learning. Also, developed nations have to multiply the number of grants to welcome students from developing nations."

Talking about India's immediate future and requirements in terms of nanotechnology, Singh says, "The government has recently approved a proposal to invest Rs 1,000 crore under a five-year nanoscience and technology mission. There is a growing demand for trained manpower in this field. The emphasis should be on industry-oriented postgraduate programmes in nanotechnology so that competent scholars trained in relevant areas are employable in emerging industries. In fact, active research is a priority in some of India's research centres. More such research initiatives should be encouraged through industry tie-ups."

So how does one encourage bright minds? "With large funds allocated to develop nanotechnology in India, we should try to promote and attract brilliant students through the National Science Talent Search scheme. Also, special funds should be allocated to focus on students who have completed their class XII examinations and waiting to be selected for higher studies in this field," shares Singh.

Timesofindia

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