Nanotube factory set up in Wollongong

THE University of Wollongong’s Intelligent Polymer Research Institute (IBRI) has installed a machine that will allow its researchers to design and produce carbon nanotubes.

Professor Gordon Wallace said the machine is the first of its kind to be installed in Australia and will attract attention from researchers from around the country.

“The facility, which was installed by engineers from ATOMATE in the US, will have amazing implications for applications and provide a tremendous boost to IPRI’s research capabilities because researchers will no longer have to rely on commercial suppliers to provide carbon nanotubes,” he said.

The nanotube factory will benefit a number of researchers at the centre, particularly research fellows Dr Andrew Minett (who is working on the development of nanotube biosensors) and Dr Jun Chen (who is working on the development of new nanostructured electrodes for biofuel cells).

“Electrons flow 1000 times faster through carbon nanotubes than copper,” explained Minett. “The nanotubes will allow us to have complete control and create our own ‘recipes’ for sensors, artificial muscles and other polymer applications.”

If you are involved in or know of a project that uses innovative Australian electronics, then why not enter it into the 2006 EDN Innovation Awards? For criteria and entry forms, visit www.ferret.com.au/FerretAwards/EDNAwards.asp.

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