Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology in Mexico

Mexico counts eleven research groups at three universities and two research institutes, which are active in nanotechnology. About ninety researchers are engaged in relevant research. The main trends in nanotechnology research in this Central American country are development of new materials, properties of nanoparticles and nanostructures and nanodevices. These are some results of Volker Lieffering’s “Study on the Nanotechnology and Microsystems Technology sector in Mexico”, published by Malsch TechnoValuation in November 2004.

Two Mexican companies are openly active in nanotechnology. Recently, Mexican researchers have developed and patented anti-graffiti paint based on nanotechnology. The study also gives an overview of nanotechnology application potential in sectors which are important for the Mexican economy. These sectors are renewable energy, agriculture and environment.

There is currently no national nanotechnology research programme, but nanotechnology research and technology transfer projects can be funded through several national and international programmes. Mexican researchers are collaborating with partners in the USA as