Stakeholder Spotlight – Nanotedd

Tell us a little about your organisation. How do the areas of nanotechnology and sustainability impact your work?

Our company specialises in the environmentally friendly synthesis of nanomaterials. We are constantly looking for ways to reduce the number of chemicals used in the fabrication of these materials. Our lab has successfully synthesised several nanomaterials using agricultural wastes and locally available plants in response to the unprecedented climate emergency. We are particularly interested in the synthesis of nanomaterials for biomedical applications such as bioimaging and targeted drug delivery. Additionally, we explored wastewater treatment and agricultural applications.

What is the newest/most innovative development in nanotechnology that you and/or your organisation is excited about now?

We are constantly intrigued by the novel applications of certain nanomaterials. For example, we are currently fascinated by how nanomaterials and IoT work in tandem to enable precision agriculture. Additionally, in the field of medicine, nanomaterials and machine learning have been developed for the purpose of identifying cancerous cells in the body. This enables more rapid diagnostics and preventative measures. Additionally, we are investigating how our green nanomaterials can be used in energy storage applications. There are numerous exciting developments occurring in the nanoworld.

What, in your opinion, is the most important thing (tool, process, support, etc.) that is needed right now to help grow and strengthen the nanotechnology community?

Nanotechnology is a field that spans multiple disciplines. Networking with other nanotechnologists is critical at this point. The field is rapidly expanding, necessitating the collaboration of numerous specialists from diverse fields. In five years, we will see an explosion of ways in which nanomaterials can help advance and sustain the community.

What, in your opinion, are important factors or influences that will affect the direction of the nanotechnology community in the future?

When we discuss nanotechnology, some people continue to have doubts. What effect will it have on their health, and is it dangerous? We must emphasise that, over time, nanomaterial production will become much safer and will have no toxic effects. We need to approach people and explain the benefits. It must be explained in a more straightforward manner. If we succeed, the public will embrace nanotechnology-based solutions.

Interviewee person: Che Azurahanim Che Abdullah (Nanotedd NT, ION2, Universiti Putra Malaysia). For more information in Nanotedd, visit their website: Nanotedd Research Group – Nurture-Novelty-Navigate