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Small Mechanics
This microelectronmechanical device is a combdrive-based,
rotational actuator, fabricated in the U of A NanoFab
by Mark Salomons, E.I.T. The entire device, less than
0.5 mm across, twists around the central pivit point
when a voltage is applied across its combdrive fingers. |
The University of Alberta’s Faculty of
Engineering received major funding last month for nanotechnology
research
and innovation. Under the $3.1 million in federal new money,
the NanoFabrication Facility will acquire new equipment,
the Centre of Excellence in Integrated NanoTools will be
created to accelerate research capability at the university,
and new applied research will be undertaken to develop more
cost-effective alloy materials.
“Western Economic Diversification and the Government of Canada continue
to be strong supporters and partners with the province and the University of
Alberta in the nanotechnology and microsystems industry,” Deputy Prime
Minister Anne McLellan said March 16 on behalf of Dr. Rey D. Pagtakhan, the minister
of Western Economic Diversification Canada. “Scientists and researchers
in the province of Alberta and Edmonton in particular are leading the world in
the development of 21st century technologies, and should be commended for their
continued innovation and entrepreneurship.”
“The Alberta Government continues to make investments in key areas such
as nanotechnology that help strengthen the province’s research system and
support the commercialization of innovative technology,” said Victor Doerksen,
minister of Alberta Innovation and Science. “Collaborating with other governments,
industry and universities has enabled us to create new opportunities and continues
to put Alberta on the map as a centre of excellence for research and technology
development.”
Engineering Dean Dr. David Lynch, P.Eng., expressed appreciation for this increased
capacity. “Combined contributions from the federal and provincial governments,
the private sector, and the university will produce a critical mass of intellectual
property to demonstrate the Faculty of Engineering’s nanotechnology research
strategy,” he said. “This funding will contribute to unparalleled
research and commercial opportunities for all participants.”
As a research field, nanotechnology has nearly limitless potential applications,
from the creation of molecule-sized robots, to fuel cells that do not need
to be recharged and molecular capsules capable of conveying precise quantities
of medication directly to the site of infection or disease within a patient’s
body. A platform technology still in its infancy, nanotechnology also has practical
applications in telecommunications, manufacturing, and a variety of other industries
that will ultimately improve the efficiency and quality of life of Albertans,
Canadians, and people worldwide.
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