NanoCentral® success through nanomaterials
“We provide, for the first time, a dynamic hub of technical knowledge and broad business experience dedicated to making the connections that will accelerate the nanomaterials revolution.”
NanoCentral® exists to accelerate the commercialisation of value-adding nanomaterials. Its hub of technical expertise and broad business experience is strategically placed to forge links with a network of suppliers, increase awareness of competitive advantages derived from nanomaterials, and access Safety, Health and Environmental advice. For a business aiming to achieve success through nanomaterials we will assemble the complete solution for market. The use of nanomaterials can revitalise products, improve the quality, value and performance of brands, make industry more efficient, conserve energy, save lives, reduce pollution, create dynamic new business, increase corporate profits and energise the UK economy for decades to come.
for the first time, a dynamic hub of technical knowledge and broad business experience dedicated to making the connections that will accelerate the nanomaterials revolution.
All this is made possible by the pronounced changes in the properties of materials when they are engineered down to nanometre (1 billionth of a metre) scale. In very small quantities nanomaterials can make big differences. But it is taking time for the vigorous activity at the lab bench to feed through into new products on the warehouse and supermarket shelf.
MARKET Developing a nanomaterial usually requires synthesis to produce it, followed by formulation into a usable state, characterisation of properties, SHE testing and then application development to deliver a market benefit. Suppliers tend to specialise in a particular stage. Many are new. Few span the whole cycle. As a not-for-profit organisation, NanoCentral® is forging links between suppliers and injecting expertise to put together collaborations across the supply chain.
NanoCentral® is here to overcome the obstacles to commercialisation: disjointed supply chains; lack of understanding by industry and health, safety and environmental concerns. We provide,
AWARENESS Nanomaterials can add value to products for both business and consumers: for example, tougher cutting tools, self-cleaning windows,
creamier cosmetics, cheaper tyres, longer lasting medical implants. But industry is not fully realising such competitive advantages. NanoCentral® is busy creating awareness and building bridges with nanomaterial suppliers so that increased demand will pull innovation through into practice. RISK REDUCTION Because the properties of materials change at the nano scale, their effect on the human body and nature might not be the same as that of bulk materials. Concern from environmental groups is becoming vocal. NanoCentral® is working to publish SHE related advice; spread best practice and connect suppliers with expertise like that provided by AssuredNano and the Institute of Occupational Medicine. Intertek MSG, Wilton
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