Nano in the News
NPEP Newsletter, June 2016
Many countries around the world, including South Africa, are faced with the growing challenge of ensuring that their citizens have access to clean and safe drinking water. The statistics are alarming with over 700 million people in the world not having access to clean water. In South Africa, it is estimated that 5.7 million people do not have access to basic water services. In developing countries, poor water and sanitation are the main cause of health problems for almost half of the population.
This edition of NanoNews focuses on exploring the world class research in nanotechnology and water purification in South Africa and some of the strides that have been made, particularly in water purification and water sustainability and, ultimately, health.
We share the current progress in research and the direction research is taking to address our water challenges. With this, we also hope to add to a broader understanding of how nanotechnology contributes to our daily lives.
Our feature article explores the development of nanotechnology enhanced membrane materials (and adsorbents) and water sustainability. We profile Prof Shivani Bhardwaj (Mishra), a professor at the Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (NanoWS) Research Unit at the University of South Africa. She shares her journey in nanotechnology and her thoughts on nanotechnology and water. We also look at the contribution of industry through the nanotechnology that Dow Sub-Saharan Africa is using to address challenges around acid mine drainage.
Again, we value your input of articles or recommendations on all things nano. We would love to hear what you would like to see profiled in the NPEP NanoNews, including news items, postgraduate opportunities and event notifications. For comments and suggestions, simply email us at nanonews@npep.co.za.
South African scientist honoured
Water sustainability and nanotechnology
Nano-composites could provide a solution to clean and safe water
The future of nanotechnology and water research
7th International Conference on Advanced Nanomaterials (ANM2016)
Nanostructured Materials Conference (NANO 2016)
International Conference on Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology (ICONAN 2016)