UK academics awarded EU funding for nanotechnology research

One of the key projects will see academic research experts work with industry to encourage wider use of nanotechnology in areas such as solar cell production and new battery technology. Prof David Gawne, LSBU's research professor for Surface Engineering, is leading a team of experts from across Europe in researching the practical uses of nanotechnology and nanostructured materials in modern manufacturing and industry. While nanotechnology has the potential to deliver substantial economic and social benefits, there has been a slow take up of its practical application in Europe, and the project team will work with business to take the technology out of the research laboratory and into factories and industry. The research team will focus on developing new nanomaterials for a range of different products, including organic electronics, solar cells on roof tiles, and lithium ion batteries. The three year project will allow the better design of nanostructured materials across a number of industries, but is likely to make a significant impact in the battery, solar cell and energy sectors. The research team includes higher education institutes and business partners from eight countries: the UK, Netherlands, France, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Austria and Belgium. Work on the project is expected to start later this year. LSBU Pro-Dean in Research and Enterprise, Dr Andy Tilbrook, said: "This is a further sign that London South Bank University is continuing to develop and improve its research capability and expertise. The two projects are examples of how we can use the experience of our highly-qualified staff to lead major new projects that help develop practical yet innovative solutions to some of the problems faced by European businesses."