Nanotech booms in Finland

The figures are from the Nanotechnology in Finnish Industry survey 2004–2006. In 2006, 129 companies either had commercial products or research activities focused on nanotechnology, or had participated in the FinNano technology programme, a national scheme to promote the sector. This was up from 61 companies involved in the field in 2004.

Of the 129, 29 have a commercial product, which range from technology for industrial processes to consumer products.

Chemicals and materials are the areas in which nanotechnology will have the greatest impact in the short term, with 13 companies having products in this area. These include nanoscale particles and materials, but also an increasing number of products relying on applied nanotechnology, such as cosmetics and paints.

The forestry, pulp and packaging industry has also embraced nanotech, with large firms gearing up their research activities. Activity has been especially strong in packaging, with more research into intelligent packaging, incorporating features such as freshness indicators.

There is also a crossover with the chemical and the life sciences industry, with research being carried out into chemicals and enzymes for paper processing.

Lab on a chip

In life sciences the leading application is in diagnostics, and in particular so-called lab-on-a-chip technology. Biomaterials and techniques for drug delivery are also important and research is progressing into nano-based drugs. Nanotechnology is being applied also in the production of foodstuffs.

While the electronics industry is thought to be the one that will ultimately benefit most from nanotechnology, it will take time before these benefits are realised. This is consistent with the survey findings, which noted steady progress from research to early commercialisation. For example, mobile phone company Nokia has increased the scale and scope of its nanotech activities.

FinNano, has played a large part in the overall rise in activity and awareness in the sector. The programme covers funding and support activities from the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation, Tekes, and the Academy of Finland.

“FinNano is also a testament to the commitment and involvement of industry. Nanotechnology visions for key industries have been developed, which has helped other firms to identify and address real market needs,” comments Markku Lämsä, FinNano Programme Manager.

Later this month FinNano brings together the top Finnish nanotechnology firms and researchers in its annual seminar, to be held on 27 March in Helsinki. The seminar precedes Nanotech Northern Europe, the region’s largest nanotechnology event, to be held from 27 to 29 March 2007.