CSIR Technology Impact 2002

15
The CSIR’s Imbiza Multi-purpose Fine Chemicals Plant - a turning
point for the local fine chemicals industry
Expansion at Imbiza Multi-purpose Fine
Chemicals Plant
The CSIR's Imbiza Multi-purpose Fine Chemicals Plant has
undergone major enhancements with the installation of vibrating
plate extraction columns (VIPEX) and a range of high-pressure gasliquid
(SAFOX) reactors employing highly efficient gas and liquid
loop circulation technology. The plant was acquired by the CSIR last
year and represented a major turning point for the South African
fine chemicals industry. Potential local manufacturers of fine
chemicals previously had no option but to contact overseas toll
producers to obtain quantities of trial product for market testing
and regulatory approval. The absence of such a local toll facility has
been a major stumbling block in the development of a fine
chemicals industry.
Sustainable construction in developing
countries
The CSIR is closely involved in Agenda 21 for Sustainable
Construction in Developing Countries, a project commissioned by
the International Council for Research and Innovation in Building
and Construction and the United Nations Environment
Programme's International Environmental Technology Centre, to
identify the key issues and challenges facing sustainable
construction in the developing world. A discussion document has
been published, identifying barriers to sustainable construction
such as the lack of capacity in the construction sector, an uncertain
economic environment, lack of accurate data, poverty and low
urban investment, lack of integrated research and entrenched
colonial codes and standards. The document also suggests a range
of actions to address these issues, aimed at the research
community, national and local government, the construction
industry, non-governmental organisations and the public.
Facilitating SMME development
The CSIR has put together a Development Process to assist SMMEs
which account for approximately 60% of all employment in South
Africa and contribute 40% to national output. SMMEs are often the
vehicle by which entrepreneurs from all socio-economic levels gain
access to economic opportunities. Particular aspects addressed are
establishment of sustainable manufacturing enterprises;
implementation of a range of competitiveness improvement
services to enterprises; and implementation of national SMME
support programmes. The SMME Development Process model forms
an integral part of the CSIR's overall job creation drive and can be
applied to any innovation by the experienced team at the CSIR
Enterprise Development Centre. Several SMMEs have participated in
this process and are now established in the mainstream economy.