NANO TECHNOLOGY

At first glance, nanotechnology appears to have little potential in the large-scale production of paper. Paper technology makes use of an ancient, well established technology, while nanotechnology is a modern technology the full potential of which has not yet been realised. Currently, the paper industry is the largest user of nanotechnology of all industries. Retention and drainage aids are added to paper machines to ensure fibres and fillers are retained in the paper mat, while water is drained from the sheet in the process. The technology employed for this is based on nanotechnology. Currently the main hindrance is the high cost of nanoparticles. Nanotechnology researchers need to look at this industry with the same enthusiasm and focus that they currently do for the pharmaceutical and electronics industry.

It is possible with renovation in existing technology of paper making and attitudenal changes of paper makers round the world.