| Posted: November 29, 2007 |
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology and Dow Chemical launch research collaboration |
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(Nanowerk News) The University of Queensland's Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN) and The Dow Chemical Company today announced a research alliance combining AIBN's research expertise with Dow's market knowledge.
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According to AIBN Director Professor Peter Gray the partnership will focus on two key areas; bio-mimicry and developing new manufacturing systems using bio-feedstocks.
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“Escalating oil costs and concerns about carbon dioxide emissions make it imperative to develop new manufacturing processes based on renewable substrates rather than diminishing fossil fuels,” he said.
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“Scientific advances in the biosciences, have enabled researchers to genetically reprogram bacteria to produce the chemical building blocks of the future.
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“AIBN's research excellence in cell biology and metabolism, as well as polymer chemistry structure and function, make an ideal fit with Dow's position at the forefront of sustainable chemistries.”
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The alliance is ultimately expected to deliver new materials and processes capable of producing desired molecules from renewable resources in a cost effective manner achieving long term benefits for the consumer.
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Chairman and CEO of Dow, Mr Andrew Liveris said going back to nature was a further step forward in Dow's sustainable chemistry initiative.
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“This alliance will help Dow to find more resource efficient ways to deliver even better products to markets and is a marvellous example of how the human element can work with nature to drive strategic growth at a company like Dow.”
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The Dow Chemical Company is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of innovation, science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company offers a broad range of products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products.
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AIBN is uniquely positioned due to its world-leading research at the intersection of biology, chemistry, engineering and computer modelling. It has over 300 researchers housed in a new, AUD$75 million state-of-the-art building complimented by an extensive suite of facilities. This critical mass of researchers is working to develop new products and processes which will significantly impact on human health and quality of life.
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