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Cardiff University makes revolutionary development in nanotechnology
A new method of controlling the shape of tiny particles – about one-tenth of the width of human hair – could make the technology powering our daily lives more stable and efficient , scientists at Cardiff University claim .
The process provides the industry with opportunities to optimise optoelectronics , energy harvesting , photonics and biomedical imaging technologies , according to research .
The university ’ s study , funded by the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council ( EPSRC ) and published in Nano Letters , used a process called nanofaceting – the formation of small , flat surfaces on nanoparticles – to manipulate the quantum dots into a variety of shapes called nanocrystals .
From cubes and olive-like structures to complex truncated octahedra , the international team of researchers said these nanocrystals have unique optical and electronic properties , which can be used in different types of technology .
Dr Bo Hou , a Senior Lecturer at Cardiff University ’ s School of Physics and Astronomy , who led the study , said :
“ Quantum dots have the potential to revolutionise a number of industries because of the theoretically limitless efficiencies they offer . Our study is a significant step forward in the adoption of quantum dots technology across a wide range of energy and lighting industry applications .”
UTC Heathrow and Vertiv enter educational partnership
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TC Heathrow has announced a partnership with Vertiv , which will see its people working alongside the UTC to deliver a co-teach programme of learning based on the data centre sector .
The Digital Futures Programme is a first for any UK school . The programme , which contributes to a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma / Extended Diplomas in Engineering ( NQF ), allows students to gain the essential knowledge and skills needed to thrive in technical careers within the data centre sector .
This sector is currently experiencing booming growth but is facing an ongoing skills shortage . The Digital Futures Programme – now in its second year – aims to future-proof the industry by inspiring a new generation to join it and enjoy a hopefully rewarding career .
“ Without a doubt , the skills gap is still as wide as ever . Technically skilled professionals with a good understanding of data centre technology are critical , but also hard to find .” Vertiv Vice President of Services EMEA , Michael O ’ Keeffe , said . “ Young people , especially women and those with diverse backgrounds , are under-represented in this field . By joining UTC Heathrow on this important programme , we are working to develop the skills needed to join the industry .”
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