Tuesday, 21st October 2008 (678 views)

A new research initiative launched in Australia this month could improve the country's capacity to conduct gold nanotechnology research.

The Australian National Fabrication Facility scheme will link seven university-based centres around the country, including one at the University of Queensland (UQ).

Professor David Siddle, deputy vice chancellor of research at UQ, said that the programme is "essential" for the future competitiveness of Australia.

The scheme will provide state-of-the-art facilities for researchers to study a range of nanomaterials, micro-devices and smart surfaces.

UQ's facilities will be based in specially-built laboratories in the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, plus its School of Chemistry's Centre for Organic Photonics and Electronics.

Professor Liddle commented: "As a leading research-intensive university, UQ is playing a significant role in the development of national research infrastructure."

Gold particles play a significant role in nanotechnology research.

Medical applications that gold nanoparticles are used in include the development of high-tech artificial limbs, delivery of cancer drugs and treatments for arthritis.

 

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