Access to Safe Water for the Bottom of Pyramid: Strategies for Disseminating Technology Research Benefits. Secondary Research Report.

Abstract

Nanotechnology has introduced a new generation of water filters and purification systems. Research on Carbon nanofiltration membranes and nano catalysts like iron, silver and titanium dioxide for water treatment applications is a fast growing field. Universities like Stanford, Aberdeen, Rice, etc. as well as their Indian counterparts like the Indian Institutes of Technology, Benares Hindu University, Indian Institute of Science etc. are actively involved in nanotechnology research focused on the water technology. Some technologies have recently also been introduced in the market by companies like Eureka Forbes Limited, TATA Chemicals, etc. for point of use application.

This report is a secondary review of available technologies in the laboratory and the market. It is structured in three chapters. Chapter 1 offers a background to the study, focusing on current water issues globally and nationally. It also throws light on the reasons and approach for this study. Chapter 2 presents an overview on Nanotechnology, especially the role of nanotechnologies in the water sector. Prominent research from around the world is featured in the chapter. Specifically for India, it draws attention to research agencies that have initiated nano research. Also highlighted are nanotechnologies marketed in India in the water purification sector. The overview sheds light on the present market scene for nanotechnology. Policy issues and health and environmental impacts of nanotechnologies in the water sector, though little understood as of date, are mentioned. This is an area that requires further work. Chapter 3 presents the way forward in the research study. This report is derived from scanning and mapping of the current scenario. Further the study involves consultations and primary surveys to identify potential technologies and partners. The aim of this report is to develop and provide a basic understanding of the current research and market scenario with respect to nanotechnologies in the water sector.

Citation

Technology and Action for Rural Advancement (TARA), New Delhi, India, 38 pp.

Access to Safe Water for the Bottom of Pyramid: Strategies for Disseminating Technology Research Benefits. Secondary Research Report.

Published 1 January 2010