Nanotechnology in SINTEF: Overview, Strategy and Recommendations

Abstract

STF90 A05407 A Strategic Working Group (SWG) was established to develop SINTEF’s strategy within Nanotechnology with representatives from SINTEF ICT and Materials and Chemistry. SINTEF looks upon nanotechnology as an important strategic area which provides unique opportunities due to the inter- and multi-disciplinary character and skills of the organization. The prioritization of strategic research within selected fields can open new markets and therefore points to an application-oriented approach which should take account of criteria; based on core expertise where SINTEF has critical mass, this being supported by basic research at a high international level and linked to activities where SINTEF or its strategic partners operate state-of-the-art infrastructure. A prerequisite to building a solid platform for success in nanotechnology are is through alliances, in particular with the universities NTNU in Trondheim (Nanolab) and UoO in Oslo (MiNaLab).SINTEF has a considerable level of resources and activities covering all aspects of the field. Mainly centred within the two divisions (SINTEF Materials and Chemistry and SINTEF ICT). A dialogue with relevant bodies and organisations has revealed that potential customers have shown a cautious and critical interest and have limited activities in this field at the present time. Health, Environment, Safety and Ethics issues are naturally considered to be important aspects of Nanotechnologies that must be thoroughly accounted for, particularly when such technologies are being actively investigated in projects and may result in products that become widely available. The SWG has thus proposed a set of recommendations, with concrete follow-up actions that have been linked to high level goals.

Oppdragsgiver: SINTEF