Tuesday, 3 April 2012

Dispersion and Stabilisation of Nanoparticles in Liquids


One day course on
Dispersion and Stabilisation of Nanoparticles in Liquids
31st May, 2012

This short course will cover various processes involved in the dispersion of nanoparticles in liquids: Incorporation, Break up, Stabilization

10% discount for DOMINO consortium members
10% off when you book your place before 15th April
Promotional code: STARKNANO12

Applications and scope
Nanoparticles and products that contain nanoparticle dispersions are finding increasing applications in coatings, personal and health care, paints and inks, plastics and several other industries.

This short course will cover various processes involved in the dispersion of nanoparticles in liquids:

·         Incorporation
·         Break up
·         Stabilization

As well as dispersion rheology.

The course contents

·         Different process devices, mechanisms and kinetics of break up and drawdown which are crucially important in process design.


·         Different stabilisation methods depending on the system (for example, by controlling the surface charge properties of the particles or by an entropic method arising from the adsorption of polymeric materials onto the particle surfaces).


·         The molecular architecture of stabilising polymers specifically designed according to the chemistry of the particle surface and continuous phase.

What previous attendees said...
This one day course provided a good insight into the dispersion and stabilisation of nanoparticles in liquids. The lectures, demos and presentations by exhibitors created the right atmosphere for discussion of specific issues relevant to a wide range processes.” Raymond Connor, Managing Director- BIOTEC LTD

“We not only had an excellent opportunity to interact with potential customers and demonstrate our process equipment during the laboratory session, but also found the course content to be extremely helpful in understanding the mechanisms behind dispersion and use of surfactants” Jon Youles- Managing Director- Ytron-Quadro

Who will benefit?
Anyone working in the field, in particular practising engineers and scientists in industry should benefit from the course. In addition to the presentations containing video clips and example case studies, there will be plenty of opportunities for discussions with the presenters.

Lecturers

Gül Özcan-Taskin
is a Senior Technical Consultant at BHR Group. She has over 20 years of experience in running R&D and consultancy projects on mixing and dispersion processes, including the dispersion of nanoparticles in liquids. She has given several lectures, directed courses and published in the field. Gül has a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Birmingham University.


Dr. Jordan Petkov studied in the Laboratory of Physico-Chemical Hydrodynamics at the University of Sofia where he completed a MSc Thesis on ultrafiltration of charged latex spheres, followed by a PhD in the area of protein-surfactant interfacial rheology. He has worked for Unilever Research in Port Sunlight for 11 years now, where his research interests are, surface rheology, surfactant dynamics and self-assembly, emulsions and colloidal dispersions. Dr. Petkov also has an interest in the modification of existing experimental techniques and implementation of new ones, which formed part of his doctoral thesis. Since 2011 he has been a Guest Professor at the China University of Petroleum.

Dr. Neil J Alderman studied obtained his PhD in Chemical Engineering in 1986 from University of Bath before joining Cambridge University’s Department of Chemical Engineering to carry out postdoctoral research. He also worked at Schlumberger Cambridge Research, Warren Spring Laboratory, AEA Technology and Aspen Technology. His work has included research in rheology and cross-flow filtration of oil-well drilling fluids, filtration and de-watering of sewage and industrial sludges, rheo-optic characterisation of thermotropic liquid crystal polymers, electrochemical mass transfer applications and fouling of heat transfer equipment. At BHR Group, he provides pilot-plant and lab-based consultancy and research services and lectures on slurry courses. He has published over 175 papers and reports



10% discount for DOMINO consortium members
10% off when you book your place before 15th April
Promotional code: STARKNANO12

For more information, please download the course brochure at http://www.bhrconferences.com/nanoparticle_dispersion_2012.aspx or contact the Conference Organiser:

Joyce Raymond
Course Organiser

email: confx3@bhrgroup.co.uk
Tel.: 44 (0)7785 621 692

Friday, 23 March 2012

NanoSight’s webinar offers an insight to the European recommended definition of Nanomaterials

When Europe’s recommended definition of Nanomaterials was published at the end of 2011 it was viewed in many circles as the final jigsaw piece to the legislative puzzle.   However, both incidental and manufactured nanomaterials are included in this definition and this could have huge implications for the food & drink and construction industries, as well as, many companies manufacturing products such as tyres and ceramics. 



NanoSight today facilitated a webinar to brief industry leaders on the wide reaching implications of this recently announced recommended definition and Dr Denis Koltsov, a leading international expert in nanotechnology legislation provided his views on the legislative landscape.  NanoSight showcased its suite of nanoparticle characterisation methods which could provide organisations a competitive edge in addressing the measurement requirements prescribed by the European Commission.

 

What’s classed as a Nanomaterial in the recommended definition?    

·         A product that has more than 50% of its particle count (particles, agglomerates and aggregates) in the range of 1 – 100 nm could essentially now be classed as a nanomaterial and the definition only deals with particle external size and not its material, structure or chemistry.  
 

·         An additional classification of a nanomaterial is to demonstrate a specific surface per unit volume of greater than 60 m2/cm3



Koltsov points out that “the recommended definition is NOT a regulatory or binding document and does not imply danger or risk of nanomaterials.  It affects a lot more industries that the creators of the definition anticipated, it is not legally binding, but this type of definition could (and will) be used by regulators.”  The definition will be review in 2014 and could have ramifications for REACH.



The French are already putting the definition to use with a decree (# 2012-232) published on 17th February 2012 stating:

·         All manufacturers, importers and distributors of nanomaterials have to report French authorities every year
 

·         Minimum amount is 100g per year



Koltsov stats that Belgium and Germany are planning to follow this example, however the USA does not seek to define nanomaterials precisely.  It is also anticipated that more member states will revert to a national legal framework instead of relying on REACH.  The French ruling could also heavily impact Universities and importers and exporters of materials.    



The European Commission does not give a recommendation on the measurement technique for the characterisation of nanomaterials only that size distribution of a material should be presented as size distribution based on the number concentration. 



NanoSight offers a system that is a number-based nanoparticle counting technique which is rapid and suitable for regular analysis on most types of monodisperse and polydisperse samples.  The system is inexpensive to own and run and provides quick, accurate analysis in the sample’s natural environment.  Many systems are already in the market place.



NanoSight uses Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) which can:

·         Acquire a video of the nanoparticles motion

·         Track individual particles simultaneously

·         Apply the Stokes-Einstein equation to calculate particle size



The method, which counts particles to provide an absolute concentration measurement, is independent of mass, refractive indices and particle material with no calibration required. 



A variety of materials can be tested including, nanotubes, metal oxides, magnetic nanoparticles, pigments, cosmetics, ceramics, proteins, polymers, virus samples and foodstuffs.



While the French and the USA may disagree on a precise definition of nanomaterials it is clear that the NanoSight system will offer a dynamic platform for companies in responding to the increasing need for characterisation. 



To find out about NanoSight and to learn more about nanoparticle characterization using nanoparticle tracking analysis solutions, visit http://www.nanosight.com and register to receive the next issue of NanoTrail, the company’s electronic newsletter.  The webinar can be viewed from NanoSight’s archive available at http://www.nanosight.com/news/webinars. 

STOP PRESS

At last week’s national Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards 2012, NanoSight was presented with the HSBC sponsored Export Achievement award. Coming on the heels of the South West Biomedical iNet Innovation award, NanoSight’s founder and CTO, Dr Bob Carr, was presented this latest award at the Millennium Centre, Cardiff in front of the 500-strong audience. More news to follow…

Wednesday, 7 March 2012

EU Nanomaterials Regulation – Clarify the Impact on Your Business


At the end of 2011 the EU Commission published a recommended definition of Nanomaterials.  Seasoned Commission-watchers recognised this much-anticipated document as a turning point, likely to have significant legislative impact on producers of Nanomaterials in Europe and beyond.   This definition was the missing jigsaw piece that so many legislators and NGOs anticipated, to forward a robust framework for nanotechnology legislation.

Two industry reactions are observed.  Whilst all would agree that the right legislative framework will enable major investment in nanotechnology, a large industry group are doing nothing and hoping perhaps that it goes away, whilst others are thinking through potential solutions.  Having tracked the scientific consultative effort in preparation to get to this stage, NanoSight believes this definition is here to stay and will have significant impact.

On Wednesday, 21st March at 1330 and 1500 UK time, NanoSight will host a webinar to look at the implications of this definition and how as a company, with unique multi-parameter nanoparticle analysis, is able to address these freshly defined characterization challenges. The invited speaker is Dr Denis Koltsov, a leading international expert in nanotechnology legislation and control. Dr Koltsov serves on several UK governmental strategy committees. He also operates BREC Solutions, a consultancy company in the field of nanotechnology innovation. In his talk, he will examine the definition in detail and provide a thorough understanding of the document. Dr Koltsov will outline his views on the likely speed and scope of legislation.

NanoSight will present a practical draft solution to address the characterization requirements of this definition. Requiring as it does, particle counting from 1 to 100nm, a combination of Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis and Electron Microscopy is proposed. This webinar will be both informative and interactive.  You are invited to register and join in the discussions on this important issue: www.4.nanosight.com.

To find out about NanoSight and to learn more about nanoparticle characterization using nanoparticle tracking analysis solutions, visit www.nanosight.com. You may also like to register to receive the next issue of NanoTrail, the company’s electronic newsletter.

Sunday, 19 February 2012

Del Stark becomes new Director of NanoPRO and launches new Nanotechnology Business Forum and Business Club

For Immediate Release - 20 February 2012
Del Stark becomes new Director of NanoPRO and launches new Nanotechnology Business Forum and Business Club. 



Del Stark, CEO and founder of Del Stark Technology Solutions (www.delstark.com) today announces the launch of the Nanotechnology Business Club and Innovation Forum – an initiative to assist the nanotechnology community. 



Del says, “The club will help companies to innovate, make new product claims, find a competitive edge and offer improved services to customers.”   The club will allow businesses to make more connections to the academic solution providers and generate new business through networking, referrals and thinking out of the box for technology solutions and integration.



“The Nanotechnology Business Club and Innovation Forum will be working with many industrial leaders to support their advancing and changing technology needs and will offer companies an ideal platform for success,” said Del.



Del Stark also announces that he will become the new director of NanoPRO (www.nanopro.biz), a website dedicated to promoting nanotechnology companies through PR and marketing services as Ewen Andrews, NanoPRO’s founder is retiring.



Del plans to use the NanoPRO website and the Nanotechnology Business Club and Innovation Forum to give nanotechnology businesses an unrivalled service delivering promotion, lead generation and business development as well as providing facts for informed and fast paced business decisions related to technology trends. 



The Nanotechnology Business Club and Innovation Forum will offer:

½ hour free consultancy per month

Access to an extensive document library

Notices and invitations for groundbreaking events

Exclusive promotional opportunities via NanoPRO.biz



PLUS



Regular fact sheets:

Advancing technology in universities

Innovative companies

Trends

Public perception

Markets



Introductions to create:

International business development

Investment

Research collaborations

Referrals



With regular updates on news, technology reviews, publications, patents, events and funding calls including country analysis, legislation & regulatory round-up and expert interviews.



###

ENDS



About Del Stark Technology Solutions:

Del Stark, a veteran technology scout and advocate, formed Del Stark Technology Solutions to assist innovative and technically driven companies in sourcing new technologies with a wide range of consultancy services.  The company also manages the Nanotechnology Business Club and Innovation Forum.



Tel: +44 (0) 7903 115 148

About NanoPRO:

NanoPRO supports the growing needs of nanotechnology based companies in reaching new markets, sourcing new customers and promoting the benefits of their products and the importance of nanotechnologies. 



www.nanopro.biz

Tuesday, 14 February 2012

MEMS Live USA and NANO Live USA 2012

The MM Live series of events are now recognized as the one of the world's most important events for micro manufacturing technologies. If your role involves designing, manufacturing or measuring in the micro, precision and nano environments then MM Live USA along with new feature events MEMS Live USA and NANO Live USA will deliver you a return on your time invested in visiting the event
Free Expo Hall Admission
Discover the latest developments from over 75 leading exhibitors. A complete exhibitor list can be seen by clicking the link to the right. Check back for the latest updates or follow us on Twitter to be kept up to date.

Free Admission to World Class Educational Seminar Program
The seminar program is firmly established as a key part of the event. Characterized by high quality presentations from technology innovators and thought leaaders from across the globe. This high level conference drew nearly 150 delegates from 10 different countries in 2010. 2012 will see some exciting new developments and the strongest line-up yet featuring presentations from leading Micro, MEMS and NANO technology experts.

Live Machine Demonstrations
These shows are all about live technology and machine demonstrations — allowing the attendee to assess technology first hand with many LIVE show floor demonstrations.

This event presents the latest cutting edge technologies that are critical to your manufacturing business for tomorrow Admission to the exhibits and the complete seminar program is FREE for all attendees. Register today and join us for two days of learning, networking and business!

Printed Electronics: The Hot Topics

By Raghu Das, CEO, IDTechEx   

On 3-4 April, IDTechEx is hosting its 8th annual Printed Electronics Europe event in Berlin, Germany. The event focus is on the commercialisation of printed electronics, with adopters from many verticals discussing their needs and experiences. 
 

Also covered in the 100+ speaker conference program are the hottest technology topics. Experts from industry and academia will present their work followed by panel debate and discussion. Sessions include the following topics, reflecting the hottest current topics in the industry.

OLED versus LED lighting
It has taken twenty years for LED lighting to become 3% of the total $80 Billion global lighting market, but it is now on the exponential growth, appearing in car headlights to home lighting to street lighting. What is the impact on OLED lighting? Will those in OLED lighting achieve efficiencies, yield and lifetimes fast enough before LED becomes ingrained? Printing is already being applied to LED lighting for connectors and even printing LEDs themselves. Others are mounting LEDs on flex. But will the thermal problems restrict the applicability of LED lighting on flexible substrates, paving the way for OLED lighting there? Who is investing in OLED lighting manufacturing? Hear the lighting developers debate the topic at this event.

Energy Storage Gold Rush
Battery technology had progressed incredibly slowly over the last 100 years compared to other electronics and electrics. Now the development of energy storage technology has accelerated – due to government stimulus and industry demand for electric vehicles, local energy storage for renewables as part of the smart grid, long life energy storage for consumer electronics, and powering printed electronics components. New form factor batteries are available. Printed materials and laminar films have many opportunities in energy storage – including printed batteries but beyond that to improving conventional batteries, capacitors and supercapacitors – even those that scale up to the sizes of cars. Hear about the market needs, opportunity and technology progress at this event.

Replacing ITO
Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) is still about 95% of the $3.5 billion transparent conductive film market. Indium is subject to supply restriction and its price has varied by a magnitude in the last ten years. It is required primarily for photovoltaics, displays and touch screen applications – enormous sectors. Alternatives to ITO include transparent organic materials, finely printed conductive mesh, and other ways of patterning metal strands. Some even use copper to reduce cost. Others are progressing carbon nanotubes and grapheme as a viable alternative. Do all these choices have a market and what is their opportunity? Contrast the specifications – including hearing from those using ITO - to piece together the opportunity at this event.

Attendees will hear from some of the World's largest organisations including: 
  • United Technologies Research Center - $52 Billion Aerospace/Infrastructure company
  • Procter & Gamble - $82 Billion Consumer Brands company
  • Metro Stores - €67 Billion Consumer Goods Retailer company
  • Schneider Electric - €20 Billion Electrics/Electronics company
  • Samsung - $220 Billion Consumer Electronics company
  • Nokia - €42 Billion Consumer Electronics company
  • Panasonic - €83 Billion Consumer Electronics company
  • Abbot Diagnostics - $35 Billion Healthcare company

These are just some of the highlighted topics that will be aired at the IDTechEx Printed Electronics Europe event. Register by February 29th and save 30% - go to www.PrintedElectronicsEurope.com

To be involved in a first class networking platform where you have multiple opportunities to meet with end users, manufacturers and system integrators, see www.PrintedElectronicsEurope.com  or email c.clare@IDTechEx.com.


For information on press passes or media partnerships for any IDTechEx event – contact Cara Harrington at c.harrington@IDTechEx.com


About the author: Raghu Das MA (Cantab) is CEO of IDTechEx. He has an MA Natural Sciences degree from Cambridge University, where he studied physics. He has been closely involved with the development of RFID, printed electronics, energy harvesting and electric vehicles for over ten years, carrying out consultancy in Europe, USA, Asia and the Middle East. He has lectured on these topics at over 300 events and conferences around the world and is author of several IDTechEx publications.


Upcoming Events:

Electric Vehicles: Land, Sea & Air USA 2011 | March 27-28 | San Jose, CA | www.IDTechEx.com/evUSA


Printed Electronics & Photovoltaics Europe 2012 | 3-4 April | Berlin, Germany| www.PrintedElectronicsEurope.com

Energy Harvesting & Storage Europe 2012 | 15-16 May | Berlin, Germany | www.IDTechEx.com/eh  

Wireless Sensor Networks & RTLS Europe 2012 | 15-16 May | Berlin, Germany | www.IDTechEx.com/eh  

Printed Electronics & Photovoltaics Asia 2012 | October 3-4 | Tokyo, Japan | www.PrintedElectronicsAsia.com   

Printed Electronics & Photovoltaics USA 2012 | December 5-6 | Santa Clara, CA | www.PrintedElectronicsUSA.com  

Featured Report:

"Printed, Organic & Flexible Electronics Forecasts, Players & Opportunities 2011-2021"

This report provides the most comprehensive view of the topic, giving detailed ten year forecasts by device type. The market is analyzed by territory, printed vs non printed, rigid vs flexible, inorganic vs organic, cost of materials vs process cost and much more, with over 200 tables and figures. Activities of over 1000 leading companies are given.

The report specifically addresses the big picture - including all thin film photovoltaics, relevant display technologies and much more. Importantly, it includes not only electronics which are printed, organic and/or flexible now, but it also covers those that will be. Realistic timescales, case studies, existing products and the emergence of new products are given, as are impediments and opportunities for the years to come.

Details at: www.IDTechEx.com/pe

Friday, 10 February 2012

Smart Systems Integration 2012 - the conference

International Conference & Exhibition on Integration Issues of Miniaturized Systems - MEMS, NEMS, ICs and Electronic Components

Smart Systems Integration is the international communication platform for research institutes and manufacturers to exchange know-how on smart systems integration and to create the basis for successful research co operations with focus on Europe.

The event is part of the activities of EPoSS, the European Technology Platform on Smart Systems Integration.

Technology - Smaller! Smarter! Integrated!

Smart Systems Integration allows you to form a system out of components which is able to gain information from the environment, to process it electronically, to communicate signals and data and to give enabled feedback signal to the ambience.

The whole system is subject to the trend of today’s world: miniaturization, networking capability, energy-autonomy and reliability. Due to increasing complexity and multidisciplinarity developing teams in fields of microsystems- and nanotechnology, optics, fluidics, biology, medical science, electronics and wireless communication technologies face highest demands.

The Smart Systems Integration 2012 will be held in collaboration with MEMS Executive Congress Europe, organized by MEMS Industry Group.