Nanotechnology for water desalination

If the proliferation of today s technologies is any indication of the speed and power of change in the economy, in the near future nanotechnology will lead to an even more dramatic paradigm shift. The evolution of a nano-economy as contrasted by a petro-economy of today is an intriguing idea. Fundamental nanotechnology innovations, yet to come will set the timeline for economic transformation of nations. SQU's nanotechnology program's mission will be to assist the nation to be part of this revolution. Nanotechnology-based research, education and training program at SQU will be focused towards developing nanomaterials for applications ranging from water desalination and purification, to energy and environment. This Research Group will attempt to address some of these aspects of creating knowledge in niche areas relevant to Oman and the region and a knowledgeable workforce for future development of Nanotechnology in local industries and finally the society to benefit from. In this proposal, emphasis is given to application of nanotechnology to water desalination. However, it is envisioned that initial activities will lead to the creation of a National Center of Excellence in Nanotechnology in Oman, towards which other universities and research institutes in Oman will contribute. The chair programme will aim to conduct research to develop and test membranes made of different nanomaterials for water desalination to decrease the cost and increase efficiency in order to develop capacity in the field of nanotechnologies for desalination. The chair will also strive to develop nanotechnology education in Oman. It is expected that during the course of the project, additional funding through focused research proposals will be obtained through other sources in collaboration with faculty members of the four schools at SQU. The project will certainly lead to a better understanding between the groups in the University, Oman and the gulf countries working in the areas related to purification of water. The project aims at reducing any knowledge gap and introducing new technologies to face the ever changing topics in the growing field of nanosciences. There is a strong need to develop coercive curriculum for undergraduates and graduate level courses to equip future scientists, engineers and business people alike, to address issues related to the commercialization of nanotechnology. This proposal will develop regional and multilateral networking between higher education institutions in Middle-east, US, Europe, Asia and build a platform for nanotechnology knowledge assimilation and growth in the region. Interdisciplinary research and education is the most important aspect in nanotechnology. Universities should introduce courses based on nanoscale science and integrate nanotechnology with physics, chemistry, biology, electronics, medicine, engineering and other fields.. ... - Jan Voves In Skill needs in emerging technologies: nanotechnology