Materials science and manufacturing

CSIR unmanned vehicle to tackle DARPA Challenge The CSIR has joined forces with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) to develop an autonomous car for entry in the 2010 DARPA Grand Challenge.

CSIR develops a method of treating gastroesophageal reflux disease The CSIR has developed a novel injectable suspension to expand tissue and induce tissue regeneration. This suspension has potential application in several areas of soft tissue augmentation, with the first targeted application being gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Unique CSIR investment casting facility upgraded The unique investment casting facility of the CSIR has been upgraded to facilitate research and development on the casting of titanium alloys. An automated robotic shell mould-dipping line has been completed and is operational.

CoroCAM cracks market on six continents The first CoroCAM units, which provide video images of corona discharges on high-voltage equipment, have been sold in Australia, which means that all six major continents, including the Indian sub-continent, have been covered.

International Nano conference to be held in Pretoria The third NanoAfrica Conference will be held from 1 to 4 February 2009 in Pretoria. NanoAfrica 2009 is organised jointly by the South African Nanotechnology Initiative and the CSIR's National Centre for Nano-Structured Materials in association with the Department of Science and Technology.

Advances in robotics and mechatronics to be discussed The promising and fast-growing field of research and technology for application of advanced robotics and mechatronics will gain more momentum in South Africa with the second Robotics and Mechatronics Symposium, which will be held on 10 November 2008.