innovation in nanotechnology an asia-pacific perspective - apctt

INNOVATION IN 

NANOTECHNOLOGY 

AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE 

PROCEEDINGS AND PAPERS PRESENTED 

AT THE CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON 

PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY 

AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION: 


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 



PROCEEDINGS AND PAPERS PRESENTED AT THE 

CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON PROMOTING INNOVATION IN 

NANOTECHNOLOGY AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION: 


ASIAN AND PACIFIC CENTRE FOR TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY (APCTT) 

NEW DELHI, INDIA

INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY 


PROCEEDINGS AND PAPERS PRESENTED AT THE CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON 

PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION: 


© 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 

ABBREVIATIONS 

Page 

iii 

PART ONE: WORKSHOP REPORT 

CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY 

1 

AND FOSTERING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION: AN ASIA-PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE 1 

I. ORGANIZATION OF THE WORKSHOP 2 

II. OPENING SESSION 3 

III. CONSIDERATION OF ISSUES 6 

IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 15 

PART TWO: BACKGROUND PAPERS 

PAPER I: NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR DEVELOPMENT: A TECHNOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL 

17 

PERSPECTIVE 17 

I. INTRODUCTION 18 

II. SOCIAL IMPLICATION OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 18 

III. CONCLUDING REMARKS 19 

PAPER II: NANOTECHNOLOGY AND ITS INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS: INTERNATIONAL, 

REGIONAL AND NATIONAL INITIATIVES 21 


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 37 


II. REVIEW OF NANOTECH IN CHINA 38 

III. “NANORESEARCH” – NATIONAL PRIORITY KEY PROGRAMMES 39 

IV. COMMERCIALIZATION IN CHINA 42 

V. CONCLUDING REMARKS 42 

PRESENTATION II: COMMERCIALIZATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 45 

I. ASIA NANO FORUM 46 

II. NANOGLOBE 53 

DISCUSSION 2 

PRESENTATION III: NATIONAL OVERVIEW OF NANOTECHNOLOGY: STATUS AND 

55 

MEASURES TO PROMOTE INNOVATION 57 


II. INSTITUTIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE 59 

i

PRESENTATION IV: SOME ASPECTS OF NANOMESOPOROUS MATERIAL 61 


II. NANOPROUS SILICA PARTICLE 62 

III. NANOMATERIALS INDUSTRY STATUS 65 

PRESENTATION V: NATIONAL OVERVIEW OF NANOTECHNOLOGY STATUS IN THE 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 69 

I. NATIONAL POLICY HISTORY 70 

II. CURRENT GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES ON NANOTECHNOLOGY 73 

III. RECENT TRENDS AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION 76 

DISCUSSION 3 79 

PART IV: COUNTRY PRESENTATIONS 81 

I. BANGLADESH 82 

II. INDIA 84 

III. INDONESIA 86 

IV. ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN 88 

V. MALAYSIA 93 

VI. NEPAL 98 

VII. PAKISTAN 100 

VIII. PHILIPPINES 103 

IX. REPUBLIC OF KOREA 106 

X. SRI LANKA 109 

XI. THAILAND 113 

PANEL DISCUSSION 117 

CONCLUSION 119 

ANNEXES 121 

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS 122 

PROGRAMME 126 

ii

ABBREVIATIONS 

AFM Atomic force microscope 

ANEP Advanced Nanotechnology Education Programme 

ANF Asia Nano Forum 

APCTT-ESCAP Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (of the Economic and 

Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific) 

ASM Academy of Sciences Malaysia 

bEGF biotinylated epithelial growth factor 

CAS Chinese Academy of Sciences 

CINN Chinese International Nano Electrical and Mechanical System Network 

CNT Carbon nanotube 

CoEN Centre of Excellence in Nanotechnology 

CSMNT Chinese Society of Micro-Nano technology 

CSTP Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy 

DOST-PCASTRD Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Advanced 

Science and Technology Research and Development 

DST Department of Science and Technology 

ECHA European Chemicals Agency 

ENNSATOX Engineered Nanoparticle Impact on Aquatic Environments 

ENPRA Risk Assessment of Engineered Nanoparticles 

ESCAP Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific 

EXFS Extended X-ray absorption fine structure 

FAO United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization 

FJIRSM Fujian Institue of Research on the Structure of Matter 

GDP Gross domestic product 

GNP Gross national product 

HINAMOX Health Impact of Engineered Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles 

HMM Hiroshima Mesoporous Material 

HRTEM High-resolution transmission electron microscope 

HUNN Hungarian Network of Excellent Centres on Nanosciences 

ICPC International Cooperation Partnership Countries 

ICT Information and communication technology 

ILO International Labour Organization 

IMF International Monetary Fund 

IMNTP Integrated Micro/Nanosystems Platform 

IMRE A*STAR Institute of Materials Research and Engineering 

INBN Iranian Nanotechnology Business Network 

INIC Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council 

INLIVETOX Intestinal, Liver and Endothelial Nanoparticle Toxicity Development; and 

IOP Institute of Physics 

IOS Institute of Semiconductors 

IP Intellectual property 

iii

iv 

IPTLO Intellectual Property and technology Licensing Office 

ISO International Organization for Standardization 

ISRI Industrial Research of Iran 

JRC Joint Research Centre 

KFRI Korea Food Research Institute 

KIER Korea Institute of Energy Research 

KNNI Korea National Nanotech Initiative 

LIPI Indonesian Institute of Science 

LPS Lipopolysaccharides 

MAD Mutual Acceptance of Data 

MGA Membrane gas absorption 

MNA Malaysia Nanotechnology Association 

M/NEMS Micro/nano electromechanical systems 

MOE Ministry of Education 

MOET Ministry of Education and Training 

MOST Ministry of Science and Technology 

MOSTI Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation 

MRI Magnetic resonance imaging 

NAM Non-Aligned Movement 

NANOTEC National Nanotechnology Centre 

NANOTEC Nanotechnology Centre 

NAST Nepal Academy of Science and Technology 

NATAG Nano Applications and Technology Advisory Group 

NBCI Nanotechnology Business Creation Initiative 

NCNST National Commission on Nanoscience and Technology 

NEPHH Nanomaterials-related Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards through 

their Life Cycle 

NERD National Engineering Research and Development Centre 

NND National Nanotechnology Directorate 

NNI National Nanotechnology Initiative 

NNRC National Nanotechnology Research Centre 

NSAG Nano Science Advisory Group 

NSF National Science Foundation 

NSFC National Science Foundation of China 

NSCN National Steering Council on Nanotechnology 

NSNT Nanoscience and nanotechnology 

NSTDA National Science and Technology Development Agency 

NTRA Nanotechnology Research Association 

OECD Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development 

PCSIR Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research 

PLGA Polylactic-co-glycolic acid 

PLNs Polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles 

PPP Public-private partnership 

R&D Research and development 

R&D&I Research, development and innovation 

REACH Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals 

RIPoN REACH Implementation Project on Nanomaterials

SAXS Small-angle elastic X-ray scattering 

SDRC State Development and Reform Commission 

SEM Scanning electron microscopy 

SFDA State Food and Drug Administration 

SFM Scanning force microscopy 

SMEs Small and medium enterprises 

SPIO Superparamagnetic iron oxide 

STEM Scanning transmission electron microscopy 

STM Scanning tunnelling microscopy 

TEM Transmission electron microscopy 

TEOS Tetraethylorthosilicate 

TMOS Tetramethylorthosilicate 

UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme 

UNIDO United Nations Industrial Development Organization 

UNITAR United Nations Institute for Training and Research 

USFDA United States Food and Drug Administration 

USPIO Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide 

WHO World Health Organization 

WPMN Working Party on Manufactured Nanomaterials 

WPN Working Party on Nanotechnology 

v

PART ONE 

REPORT OF THE CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOPON PROMOTING 

INNOVATION IN NANOTECHNOLOGY AND FOSTERING 

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION: 


1

I. ORGANIZATION OF THE WORKSHOP 

2 

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): Mr. Sishen Xie (China) 

Mr. Sang Ki Jeong (Republic of Korea) 

Moderator (Session IV): Mr. K. Ramanathan (Head of APCTT-ESCAP) 

Moderator (Session V): 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 Lanka’s 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 

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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 South- 

South 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 Lanka’s 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-ESCAP’s 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 everyone’s mind was how to realize this 

leapfrogging effort in an effective and sustainable way. Mr. Ramanathan placed before 

everybody’s 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 South- 

South 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 

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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 APCTT- 

ESCAP 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: 

� 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;

� 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. 

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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 Lanka’s 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 

(TiO 2 ) for paint industry (US$12.5 million for 500 t/y). 

Mr. Khosrow Rostami from the Islamic Republic of Iran presented the nation’s “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 

9

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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 nation’s 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 nation’s 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 nation’s 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 nation’s 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

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. 

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12 

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 Pakistan’s 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

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 Technology- 

Philippine 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. PCASTRD’s 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. 

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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.

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 

today’s 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: 

� 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; 

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16 

� 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 today’s global business 

setting.”

PART TWO 

BACKGROUND PAPER (I) 

NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR DEVELOPMENT: 

A TECHNOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE 

BY 

MR. K. RAMANATHAN, 

HEAD, APCTT-ESCAP 

17

I. INTRODUCTION 

18 

“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 Asia- 

Pacific 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 


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.

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 Thailand’s 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

BIBLIOGRAPHY 

20 

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. 

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.

BACKGROUND PAPER (II) 

NANOTECHNOLOGY AND ITS INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS: 

INTERNATIONAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL INITIATIVES 

BY 

MR. PETER MOGYOROSI, 

CONSULTANT, APCTT-ESCAP 

21


22 

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%) 

Measurement & 

testing of nanostructures 

(22%) 

Ultraprecise 

surface 

restructuring (6%) 

Ultraprecise 

surface 

restructuring (9%) 

Lateral nanostructure 

(3%) 

Ultrathin layers/coatings (44%) 

Lateral nanostructure 

(4%) 

Ultrathin layers/coatings (37%) 

Nanoparticles/ 

composites 

(23%) 

2001 

Nanoparticles/ 

composites 

(28%) 

2010 

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

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

24 

Term Symbol Diameter 

(nm) 

Attributes 

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 

Table 2.1: Forms of silver 

Elemental or Ag 0.288 The form found in silver jewellery, coins 

metallic silver and utensils. Not found in nature as a 

single atom. 

Ionic silver; AG + 0.258 A single silver ion can be dissolved in 

silver ion water. Ionic silver is much smaller than 

nanosilver. 

Nanosilver No symbol 1-100 Can be suspended in water or 

may be called embedded into fabrics or plastics 

nano-AG 

Colloidal No symbol 1-1000 A colloid is a mixture containing 

silver 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. 

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.

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 

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

ultrashort pulse range of 50-1,000 femtoseconds. 

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26 

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 (SiO 2 , TiO 2 ). 

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: 

� 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.

� 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. 

II. 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: 

� 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. 

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28 

Table 2.2: WPMN projects and OECD missions 

Project OECD mission element Description 

OECD Database on Cooperation in R&D, Searchable, Web-based database of nanotechnology 

Manufactured Nano- burden sharing environmental health and safety research under way 

materials to Inform and in OECD and observer countries. Review of 

Analyse EHS Research nanotechnology EHS research conducted by WPMN 

Activities participants with an eye towards identifying gaps, 

potential duplication and opportunities for strengthened 

collaboration. 

Safety Testing of a Cooperation in R&D, Exploratory testing undertaken collaboratively by 

Representative Set of burden sharing member and non-member countries and industry to 

Manufactured develop datasets covering 59 mammalian and 

environmental toxicity, environmental fate, materials 

characterization, physical-chemical property and safety 

endpoints. 

Manufactured Harmonization Ensure that harmonized OECD test guidelines are 

Nanomaterials and available for use in the Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD) 

Test Guidelines programme. Provide guidance useful to members and 

participants in testing nanomaterials to determine their 

environmental health and safety implications. 

Cooperation on Harmonization Information sharing among members to facilitate the 

Voluntary Schemes and application of consistent or harmonized approaches in 

Regulatory Programmes voluntary or regulatory activities for reporting and risk 

management. 

Cooperation on Risk Cooperation in R&D, Cooperation among members in exploring current risk 

Assessment harmonization assessment approaches and their possible application 

to manufactured nanomaterials; and developing 

recommendations for advancing the state of the science. 

Alternative Methods in Cooperation in R&D, Research into the possible application of alternative test 

Nano Toxicology harmonization methods and how they might be used in the risk 

assessment of manufactured nanomaterials. 

Exposure Measurement Harmonization Information exchange and guidance development related 

and Exposure Mitigation 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 Promoting cleaner Exploration into the opportunities the challenges of the 

Environmentally alternatives use of nanotechnologies for potential environmental 

Sustainable Use of benefit, including how to address safety, sustainability 

Nanotechnology 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

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: 

� 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: 

� 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: 

� 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 

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30 

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 Europe’s 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 Europe’s future – guidelines to the support of the research 

policy of the European Union”, which defines the six main goals of the European 

Union’s new research policy as follows: 

� 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: 

� 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 

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32 

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 Hungary’s 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: 

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

develops world-standard semiconductor-measurement devices and processes based on 

domestic know-how. Semilab is deemed as one of the world top five manufacturers in its 

field, and 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: 

� 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: 

� 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 

34 

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 Union’s 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 

People 


Ideas 


Euratom 


JRC 


Cooperation 


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)

Table 2.3: Budget allocation for FP7 

Area of cooperation Allocation (%) 

Health 19 

Food, agriculture and biotechnology 6 

Information and communication technologies 

Nanoscience, nanotechnologies, materials and 

28 

new production technologies 11 

Energy 7 

Environment (including climate change) 6 

Transport 13 

Socio-economic sciences and the humanities - 

Security and space - 

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 Nanosciences and converging sciences 

Call 1 Support to dialogue and engagement for responsible 

social acceptance of nanotechnology 

Topic 2 Nanotechnologies and converging technologies 

Call 1 Novel tools integrating individual techniques for real time 

nanomaterials characterization 

Call 2 Substitution of materials or components utilizing “green 

nanotechnology” 

Call 3 Thermoelectric energy converters based on nanotechnology 

Call 4 Adding Value to Mining at the Nanostructure level 

(Coordinated call with Mexico) 

Topic 3 Health, Safety and Environmental Impacts 

Call 1 Reference methods for managing the risk of engineered 

nanoparticles 

Call 2 Modelling toxicity behaviour of engineered nanoparticles 

(coordinated with the United States) 

35

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, 

PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA 

37


38 

The Chinese government’s 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). 

National Programme 

for Nano 

Key projects 

SAS 

Nanomaterials 

800 University 

Institutes 

cooperation 

II. REVIEW OF NANOTECH IN CHINA 

Figure 3.1: China’s nanotechnology framework 

NSCF 

Nanodevices 

& 

Nanoelectronics 

Directorate & Coordination 

Council 

MOST 

Nanobiology 

& 

Nanomedicine 

National Roadmap 

Development 

Industry 

NRDC 

Characterization 

& 

Standardization 

4,000 

scientists 

Key projects 

MR 

MEMS & 

nano 

fabrications 

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 


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.

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 China’s high-tech industry. 

Table 3.1: China’s 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 

C 60 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: 

� 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

40 

� 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 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

RMB million 

11.7 

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 : 32 per cent 

Japan : 21 per cent 

China : 12 per cent 

Germany : 11 per cent 

Republic of Korea : 8 per cent 

13.5 

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

26.8 

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)

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 m 2 ); National Centre for Promoting and Developing 

Nanotechnology, Shanghai (RMB 350 million) and National Nano-Commercialization 

Base, Tianjin (RMB 200 million, 22,000 m 2 ). 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

42 

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 30°F and 

90°F 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...)

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 molecule’s 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: 

� Doxorubicin: anticancer agent, sales planned in 2010; 

� Amphotericin-B: used for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, planned launch 

in 2011; and 

� 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 Å, average waviness (Wa) 0.5-0.6 Å, 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

44 

Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter (FJIRSM) is one of the pioneers 

in this field in China: 

� 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 world’s first glycol plant of 1.2 million t/y scale. 

IV. 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. 

V. CONCLUDING REMARKS 

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 

Present 

2010 

2015 

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.

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (II) 

COMMERCIALIZATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 

MS. LERWEN LIU, 

MANAGING DIRECTOR, NANO GLOBE PTE. LTD., SINGAPORE 

BY 

45

I. ASIA NANO FORUM 

46 

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). 

ANF’s 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.

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 National Science and Technology Program for Nanoscience and 

of China 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

48 

Japan ATP 250 M USD/10Y 

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 Malaysia’s Prime Minister 

to be one of the growth engines for the country’s 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) Phase II (2009-2014) 

Thailand NANOTECH established 

Hong Kong INMT NAMI (2006-2011) 

Viet Nam NIIP 

Singapore A*STAR Programme 

Indonesia NII Roadmap 

1992 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 

Australia NanoVic and ARC COE 

Singapore NNP expected 

Indonesia NNP expected 

RUSNANO established (2007-2017) 

Indonesia NNNDP started 

9th Malaysia Plan (2006-2010)-NNIM 

NNS (2007-2011) 

India NSTI India Nano Mission (2007) 

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 

United States NNI programme set up 

3nd Basic Plan (2006-2010) 

United States NNI announced (2000)

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

6000 

5000 

4000 

3000 

2000 

1000 

0 

341 300 

Australia 

China 

Hong Kong 

60 150 5 

Indonesia 

Rep. of Korea 

New Zealand 

US$ million 

Taiwan 

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

United States 

US$ 5,618 million 

4,942 

European Union 


1,331 

44 40 

311 447 

Asia 


42 20 

Viet Nam 

Figure 3.7: Government funding for nanotechnology among three largest economies 

1600 

1400 

1200 

1000 

800 

600 

400 

200 

0 

India 

Japan 

Malaysia 

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

Singapore 

Germany 


Thailand 

United States 

Japan (realistic) 

49

50 

10 

9 

8 

7 

6 

5 

4 

3 

2 

1 

0 

Figure 3.8: Per capita government funding for nanotechnology among 

three largest economies 

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

Table 3.3: Nanotechnology R&D and commercialization highlights 



United States 

Japan (realistic) 

Country Electronics Biomedical Textile Clean Consumer 

technology technology technologies 

(energy, water 

& environment) 

goods 

Australia Si-based transistor, Bionic ear implants 

supercapacitor (biocompatible), 

nano-structured 

silicon for drug 

delivery 

China MEMS technology Sunscreen lotion 

Hong Kong Displays, electronic 

packaging 

+ 

India Nanoelectronics biosensors, 

biomedical devices 

Drinking water 

Indonesia + Food & 

agriculture 

Japan Digital camera, cell DNA/gene chip, + Thin film solar 

phone, DRAM, anti-cancer drug cells, fuel cells 

device manufacture delivery 

Malaysia OLED, single electron 

transistor 

biosensors Biofertilizer 

New Zealand Sensors, intercon- Biochip for cell 

nects, optoelectronic imaging, 

materials growth diagnostics and 

drug delivery 

(nanoparticles)

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

Country Electronics Biomedical Textile Clean Consumer 

technology technology technologies 

(energy, water 

& environment) 

goods 

Singapore OLED, nanoimprint nanotoxicology, Organic solar 

fibrous scaffold, cells, fuel cells, 

biodegradable membrane 

stents & 

nanomedicine 

filtration 

Republic of Korea Flash memory, Pharmaceuticals Antibacterial 

conductive ink & film powders, 

antiglare coating 

Taiwan province 

of China 

TFT-LCD panel Flexible speaker 

Thailand + Flexible polymer Scents sensor, 

solar cells cosmeceuticals 

Viet Nam EM-shielding, 

conductive paint 

4. NANOPAC Persian Company 

Place of origin & Iran, 2005 

year of incorporation 

Number of employee About 40 

Table 3.4: NANOPAC 

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

52 

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 

� 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

II. NANOGLOBE 

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 2001- 

2010. 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. 

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. 

NanoGlobe’s mission is to promote global and sustainable development of 

nanotechnology to benefit mankind. 

53

54 

NanoGlobe’s tasks are: 

� 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 nanotechnology’s 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

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (III) 

NATIONAL OVERVIEW OF NANOTECHNOLOGY: STATUS AND 

MEASURES TO PROMOTE INNOVATION 

MR. VERANJA KARUNARATNE, 

SRI LANKA INSTITUTE OF NANOTECHNOLOGY (SLINTEC), 

SRI LANKA 

BY 

57


58 

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 

Lanka’s 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 (TiO 2 ). 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 TiO 2 was US$100 million. 

Table 3.5: Market price of titanium products 

Titanium products Market price 

US$/tonne 

Value creation index 

Ilmenite (FeTiO ) 

3 

90-100 1 

Titanium dioxide (TiO ) 

2 

2500-2700 25 

Nano-TiO (Titanium dioxide) 

2 

25000-27000 250 

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

2 

2 

2 

The vision of Sri Lanka is to enhance the quality and competitiveness of the industry 

and economy by capturing opportunities through the nation’s 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 country’s 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 Lanka’s nanotechnology policy elements are: 

� World-class environment; 

� Innovative products and services; 

� IP development & services; 

� Nanoscience park;

� Human resource development; 

� Private-public partnership; 

� Responsible development of nanotechnology; and 

� Regulatory framework. 

II. INSTITUTIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE 

Figure 3.9: Policy implementation 

National Nanotechnology Board 

National Nanotechnology Committee (NSF) 

Research instututes, SLINTEC, universities 

Nanoscience Park 

59

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 

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62 

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 

� 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 

� 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 

� 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. 

II. 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).

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 cm 3 g -1 , a surface area 

between 750 and 1,029 m 2 g -1 and macroscopic diameters between 1 and 30 nm and 

on the larger side 1 and 10 µm. 

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 m 2 / 

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 m 

High adsorption capacity 

2g and 0.3, 1cm3g-1 ) 

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 

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

and nanoporous supports used 

Solutes 

Proteins and polypeptides 

Adsorbents 

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: 

� 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. Nanosilicate material synthesis is pH dependent. 

2. Mole ratio of silicate-to-polymer block is important. 

3. Proper emulsion type and concentration is required. 

4. Autoclaving duration and temperature are governed. 

5. Oven rate of heating, holding and cooling are controlled. 

6. Characterization of material obtained should be done with proper instrument. 

7. Proper washing and drying before using are required. 

8. 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 Reduces platinum usage and increases 

embedded on carbon nanotubes 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 Reduces size, weight and pressure for 

as the storage media storing hydrogen 

Headwaters Nanocatalysts used in the conversion of coal Additional raw material, coal for 

to liquid fuels and in the upgrading of low- producing petrol, diesel and other 

grade crude such as crude from shale oil liquid fuels 

Refinery Science Nanocatalyst used in upgrading low grade Making low-grade crude oil such as from 

crude oil sands, usable for producing petrol or 

diesel 

(contd...) 

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

Company Product Advantage 

Oxonica Nanoparticle cerium oxide catalyst for diesel Increased mileage and reduced air 

fuel pollution 

H OL 

2 

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 Ethanol production from low-cost 

cellulouse to ethanol material such as wood chips, corn 

stalks and grass 

Agrivida Bioengineered plants that produce enzymes to 

simplify the conversion of cellulous to ethanol 

Ethanol production using corn stalks 

Company 

Table 3.10: Nanomaterials in medicine 

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, L’Oreal, 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

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/SiO 2 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) 

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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 (CO 2 ) 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 CO 2 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 CO 2 .

PRESENTATIONS FROM RESOURCE PERSONS (V) 

OVERVIEW OF THE STATUS OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 

IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

MR. SANG KI JEONG, 

RESEARCH FELLOW, KOREA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND 

TECHNOLOGY EVALUATION AND PLANNING (KISTEP), 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

BY 

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I. NATIONAL POLICY HISTORY 

70 

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) Law of NT R&D facilitation (2002) 

National Level Committee (2001) Detailed regulations (2003) 

Revising 1 st 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: 8 th ) 1,128 (2008) 

USA patent 68 (1976-2002) world ranking: 9 th ) 37 per year (5 th ) 

Technology level 25% (compared to USA) 66% 

(Source: Korea Nanotechnology Annual, 2005) 

7.33 

6.90 

5.61 

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

5.43 

5.15 

Taiwan prov. 

of China 


Republic 

of Korea 

United States 

Israel 

4.42 

2.77 

2.24 

2.07 

1.44 

1.43 

(Source: Lux Research, 2006) 

0.83 

0.82 

0.12 



Australia 

United 

Kingdom 

France 

Canada 

European 

Commission 


Russia 

0.05 

India

250 

200 

150 

100 

50 

0 

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

Universities National 

institutes 

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%) - 

The current investment of nanotechnology is as follows: 

Basic research US$172.5 million (35 per cent) 

Development research US$205.5 million (42 per cent) 

Applied research US$116.4 million (24 per cent) 

(Source: MOST Action Plan for Nanotechnology, 2005) 

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: 

SMEs Large 

companies 

Others 

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. 

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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. 

OTHERS 

4,725.8 (43%) 

Figure 3.12: National R&D investment in 2008 (in million US$) 

ST – 807.5 (7%) 

BT – 1,769.9 (16%) 

NT – 527.4 (5%) 

IT – 1,729.9 (16%) 

CT – 73.2 (1%) 

ET – 1,360.8 (12%) 

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

Patterning 

Measurement 

Computing replica 

Nano process 

Drug delivery 

Diagnosis 

Biomaterial 

Eco-energy 

Catalyst 

Electronics 

Nano power 

Functional 

Nano storage 

Nano electronics 

Nano photo 

383 

378 

503 

1,122 

1,014 

1,147 

1,210 

1,131 

1,363 

1,257 

1,531 

1,827 

2,474 

2,621 

0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 

2,973 

(Source: Korea Institute of Patent Information, 2004) 

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

cent).

II. CURRENT GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES ON 


Table 3.13: Timeframe of Korea National Initiative Programme 

1st Phase 2001-2004 2nd Phase (2005-2007) 3rd Phase (2008-2010) 

� Establishing R&D � New fields with strong � R&D for industrial 

infrastructure impact on other areas application 

� R&D of core technologies � Application technologies � Extension of research 

of core technology fields 

� Workforce education for � Leading to participation � Commercialization of 

R&D next generation of industries results 

The following research fields are supported: 

� 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 user’s 

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 Japan United Germany France Republic Taiwan India Brazil 

States Kingdom of Korea prov. of 


Materials/ 

processing 

O O O O O O O O O 

Equipment/ 

system 

O O O O O O O O 

Energy/ 

environment 

O O 

Bio/medical O O O O O O O O 

Developing 

equipment 

O O O O 

Education O O 

(Source: International Dialogue on Responsible Nanotechnology, 2004) 

The government’s 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 

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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 Korea’s 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 Technology’s 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.

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 institute’s Nano-Mechanical System Research Division aims at the development 

of production process, equipment and measurement to produce nano-scale machinery 

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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 Instutute’s 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 Sales (2008)* R&D Ratio of sales 

enterprises 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.


Trends in nano materials 

Carbon nanotube powder/liquid 

� SWNT, DWNT, MWNT by arc-discharge or CVD process 

� FED, Fuel cell, carbon semiconductor, AFM/STM Tip 

� Companies: ILJIN, NanoKarbon, Carbonnanotech 

Nano metal powder 

� Aluminium, Copper, Nickel, Silver, Tin 

� Colour filter, solution, soup, engine, oil 

� Companies: Nano Technology, NPK 

Conductive nano particle 

� Used in anisotropic conductive film 

� Flat panel display, notebook PC, mobile phone 

� Company: Cheil Industries 

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 

� Separates the z scanner from the x-y scanner 

� Company: PSI 

Nano imprint lithography equipment 

� Designed fro sub-100 nm patterns and near zero-residual 

� Company: NND 

Nano powder production equipment 

� 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 

� 2 Gbit one NAND flash memory using 60 nm process 

� Contains strong points of NOR and NAND flash memory 

� Mobile phones, PDAs, digital cameras 

� Company: Samsung 

Polarizer 

� Development of polarizer with period less than 50nm 

� Aimed at enhancing the extinction ratio up to 1000 fold at 450 nm 

� LCD projection TV, DVD Wave Plate 

� Company: LG 

77

78 

B. Major industrial applications 

� 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: 

� Next-generation core technology for commercialization; 

� Extreme-ultraviolet lithography for nanoscale semiconductor; 

� High-efficiency new light source using CNT; 

� Carbon nano thin-film material and process; and 

� 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.

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

PART FOUR 

COUNTRY PRESENTATIONS 

81

I. BANGLADESH 4 

82 

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. Information and communication technology; 

2. Healthcare (diagnostics, cancer treatment and biosensors); 

3. Environmental protection (reduce carbon dioxide emission); 

4. Reduction of energy consumption; 

5. Efficient renewable energies; 

6. 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 

4 

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

Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology, Bangladesh.

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 µm 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. INDIA 5 

84 

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: 

� Chemicals and basic nano-structured materials; 

� Electronics and computing; 

� Pharmaceuticals and medical products; and 

� Energy generation. 

Aviation 6% 

Chemistry 9% 

Medicines 17% 

Figure 4.1: Global nanotechnology market 

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 Mission’s aims are: 

Others 9% 

Electronics 28% 

Materials 31% 

� 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 

5 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.

� 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. INDONESIA 6 

86 

A. National policies and institutional infrastructure 

The national research agenda in Indonesia covers the following areas: 

1. Food security; 

2. Health and medicine; 

3. New and renewable energy; 

4. Defence and security; 

5. Transportation; 

6. Information technology and communication; 

7. Natural resources and environment; 

8. Social dynamics; 

9. Science measurement; and 

10. 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: 

� 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: 

� 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 

6 

This paper was presented by Mr. Bambang Subiyanto, Director, Centre for Innovation, 

Indonesian Institute of Science, Indonesia.

� 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 Tensile strength 

elasticity (GPa) (MPa) 

Pulping Wood 10 100 

Mechanical/chemical dissolving Fibre 40 400 

Mechanical/chemical dissolving Fibre 70 700 

Crystal structure - 130-250 800-10,000 

(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 IRAN 7 

88 

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 Iran’s 

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. 

INIC’s 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 people’s 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: 

� 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.

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: 

� 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; 

� UNIDO’s 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 ANF’s 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). 

900 

800 

700 

600 

500 

400 

300 

200 

100 

0 

30 

2003 

58 

Figure 4.2: Number of ISI articles 

132 

281 

465 

810 

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

89

90 

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 

1 USA 11523 1 USA 12812 1 USA 13752 1 China 14867 

2 China 7390 2 China 9544 2 China 12644 2 USA 13825 

3 Japan 5232 3 Japan 5649 3 Japan 5838 3 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 

B. Nanaotechnology infrastructure in Iran 

1. Iran Nanotechnology Laboratory Network 

(Source: ANF Summit Report, 2009) 

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.

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. 

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

92 

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 m 3 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: 

� 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) 7 

Trading companies 9 

Instrument producing companies 4 

Other companies are investing on R&D in nanotechnology 40 

Total number of companies involved in nanotechnology 110

V. MALAYSIA 8 

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 m 2 and the climate is tropical, 

with the temperature averaging 25ºC-35ºC. 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 Risk capital, particularly 

assets venture capital 

8 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

94 

“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 Malaysia’s 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). 

3,000,000 

2,500,000 

2,000,000 

1,500,000 

1,000,000 

500,000 

Figure 4.3: Global sales of products incorporating nanotechnology (in US$) 

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.

Plastic 

Figure 4.4: Enabling technology commercialization trend 

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 

Malaysia 

must start 

now 

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

96 

Research area: nanophysics and nanochemistry 

� 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), Nanoelectronics, OLED, Microelectromechanical 

University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) system (MEMS), Nanowire, Sensors 

Ibnu Sina Institute for Fundamental Science Studies (IIS), Nanochemistry – nanostructures materials, 

University Technology Malaysia (UTM) nanocatalysts, CNT, nanoelectronic devices 

Combinatorial Technology and Catalysis Research Centre 

(COMBICAT), University Malaya (UM) 

Catalysts 

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, Organic LED, Molecular nanobiotechnology, 

University Sains Malaysia (USM) 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.


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: 

� Coordinate activities related to nanotechnology industry, in particular human capital 

development programmes and research, development and commercialization; 

� Plan and develop the policy, infrastructure and physical facilities – in tandem with 

strategic frameworks for nanotechnology products development; 

� Support the National Green Technology Policy and innovation model; and 

� 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. 

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VI. NEPAL 9 

98 

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 km 2 . 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. Nepal’s 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. Nepal’s 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: 

� 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. 

9 This paper was presented by Mr. Ramesh Singh Pradhan, Executive Director, Research 

Centre for Applied Science and Technology (RECAST), Nepal.

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. PAKISTAN 10 

100 

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: 

� 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 


(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: 

� 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 

10 

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

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

Coming Properties 

� 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 

Coating Colour Nanohard- Thickness Friction Maximum 

ness (GPa) (µm) (fretting usage tempercoefficient) 

ature ( oC) TiN gold 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 

Ti N 2 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 

µAlTiN black 38 1 - 2 0.3 800 

AlTiN/SiN violet blue 45 1 - 4 0.45 1100 

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 ~1,100ºC) 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: 

Special Basic 

Breakthrough 

101

102 

� 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 220°C). 

(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.

VIII. THE PHILIPPINES 11 

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) 

PCASTRD’s mandate is to develop, integrate and coordinate the national research 

system for advances in science and technology and related fields. The priority areas 

are: 

� 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: 

� 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

104 

� 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 

� 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 

� 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 KOREA 12 

106 

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 

Schumpeter’s 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 

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

(Source: www.mbs.ac.uk) 

Firms from DTI scoreboard Total Nano Percent 

Electronic & electrical equipment 103 70 68 

Technology hardware & equipment 226 150 66 

Chemicals 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 

12 This paper was presented by Mr. Jeong Hyop Lee, Science and Technology Policy 

Institute (STEPI), Seoul, Republic of Korea.

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 

Software & computer services 110 14 13 

Banks, insurance, retail, leisure 49 6 12 

Total 1231 710 58 

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

108 

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’. 

NORTH AMERICA 

23% total 

+130% in 8 years 

Figure 4.8: Asia’s position in nano publications 

ASIA 

34% total 


BRAZIL & RUSSIA 

Seconf tier actors 

EUROPE 

33% total 


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.

X. SRI LANKA 13 

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: Victoria’s 

Secret, Gap, Marks & Spencer, Liz Claiborne, Abercrombie and Fitch. 

2. Dialog Telecom Plc. 

Dialog Telecom is Sri Lanka’s 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. 

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110 

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 Lanka’s 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 world’s 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 JGC’s proven engineering and management skills, and SDL’s 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 SLINTEC’s 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 Asia’s largest intimate apparel manufacturer and the region’s 

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.

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: SLINTEC’s fourth pillar of sustainability 

Social 

progress 

Socioeconomics 

Economic 

growth 

Sustainability 

Socioenvironmental 

Ecoefficiency 

Entrepreneurial 

stewardship 

The goal of SINTEC is to exploit Sri Lanka’s 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. 

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112 

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: 

� 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.

XI. THAILAND 14 

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) 

NANOTEC’s vision is to create nanotechnologies that would enrich Thai industries, 

give rise to niche innovative products, processes and competitiveness in the global 

market. NANOTEC’s 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: 

� 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

114 

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 NECTEC 

TMC 

NANOTEC 

NSTDA : National Science and Technology Development Agency 

BIOTEC : National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology 

MTEC : National Metal and Materials Technology Centre 

NECTEC : National Nanotechnology Centre 

TMC : 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:

� 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. 

Textile 

Technical and 

functional 

Bio-component fibre 

(pilot scale) 

� Application 

� Medical 

application 

� Apparels and nonconventional 

Table 4.11: NANOTEC’s focus areas 

Cosmeceuticals 

Nano-emulsion and 

nano-capsule 

� Skin care 

nanoemulsion with 

Thai herbs service 

� Controlled/ 

sustained release 

technology 

Healthcare 

Medical therapeutics 

of important 

diseases 

� Drug delivery 

system 

� Specific targeting 

� Food packaging 

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 

Targeted 

applications 

� Organic solar 

cell 

� Environmental 

sensors 

� Diagnostics 

Nano-encapsulation Nano-coating Functional nano-structure 

Nano-measurements and Nano-characterizations 

Nano-Safety and risk Management 

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

116 

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. 

Standards 

Thai Industrial Standards 

Institute (TISI) 

Metrology 

National Institute of Metrology 

Thailand (NIMT) 

Figure 4.11: National collaboration 

Regulation 

Food and Drug Administration (Thai-FDA) 

Office of Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) 

Testing Labs 

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 South- 

East 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.

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 country’s garment industry had secured 

a contract for making Phelb’s 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: 

� Identifying industrial and research partners at the European level for projects in 

the making; 

� Tracking down new technologies and technical expertise across frontiers; and 

� 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. 

The keynote speakers gave some important suggestions: 

(Source: www.knowledgevine.net) 

1. Research institutes can share the results and APCTT-ESCAP has a platform to 

where everyone can upload relevant information. 

117

118 

2. ESCAP has signed MoU with Asian Institute of technology. APCTT-ESCAP should 

implement the programme and transfer nanotechnology knowledge in the Asia- 

Pacific region. 

3. It is necessary to build a nanotechnology network in Asia enhancing the South- 

South 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.

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) Indonesia’s green and international cooperation and 

global value chain strategy, (2) Pakistan’s industry outreach and extension strategy 

and (3) Sri Lanka‘s 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 today’s global business setting.” 

119

120

ANNEXES 

121

I. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS 

122 

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: +60-3–88858353 (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: +977- 

1-4330348 (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); 92- 

3004212292 (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. +63- 

2-8381140; E-mail: ovirey@yahoo.com]

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: +82-2-849- 

8013; 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: +66-2–5775100; 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, József 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. 98- 

228-2276636 (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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124 

APCTT-ESCAP SECRETARIAT 

Mr. K. Ramanathan, Head, 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 (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.

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. 

125

II. PROGRAMME 

126 

Wednesday, 2 December 2009 

08.30 - 09.00 Registration of participants 

09.00 - 10.00 Inaugural Session 

� 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., 


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 

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) 

� Discussion on major issues and challenges on fostering 

innovation in nanotechnology 

� Summary of major recommendations 

� Closing remarks (APCTT-ESCAP and NERD Centre) 

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innovation in nanotechnology an asia-pacific perspective - apctt

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