The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) USA, in conjunction with IBM and MIT are using a spectroscopic technique to characterise magnetic structures of nanoscale thin films. These results could influence the design of nanoscale electronics.

The Efficient Minerals Handling and Processing seminar, held on 27 September 2007 at the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, London UK, focused on the requirements of the UK minerals industry. Increasing plant efficiency was the main theme of the day. Presenters demonstrated how to improve conveyor systems, control fugitive dust, maintain plant operation and run a mining facility online.

Researchers at MIT, USA, are manufacturing biodegradable and non-viral polymers that bind to and condense DNA into nanoparticles that are ready to be injected into the body for use in gene therapy.

Research performed at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, USA, has taken a step closer to creating faster and longer lasting memory devices using phase-change materials at the nanoscale.

The UK National Minerals Forum, launched in November 2006, has set its agenda for 2008. It aims to encourage strategic thinking and identify any issues that require a coherent response, such as continuity and sincerity of supply of aggregates, silica sand, open cast coal and fluorspar reserves.

Orthopaedic implants that monitor the healing process and speed up bone growth may be achievable using carbon nanotubes, say researchers at Brown University in Providence, USA.

A seminar on Biopolymers and Biodegradable Plastics, in London, UK, on 3 October 2007, discussed the momentum for bioplastics and the reality of their environmental credentials.