Manufacture of Nano Silicon from Locally Available Raw Materials Ref.No.SSTCRC2618
1. Introduction
The objective of the research project titled "Manufacture of Nano Silicon from Locally Available Raw Materials" is to develop an efficient and cost-effective method for producing nano silicon using locally sourced raw materials (rice husk and mineral quartz). This approach aims to reduce production costs and promote sustainable use of regional resources for manufacturing advanced materials with applications in electronics, energy storage, and other high-tech industries.
The research focuses on exploring the potential of using accessible, local raw materials for producing nano silicon, a crucial material in modern technology. By leveraging locally available resources, the study aims to make nano silicon production more sustainable, cost-effective, and adaptable to various industrial applications.
Similar studies have been conducted in the field of nanomaterials, particularly focusing on alternative sources for producing nano silicon. These studies often explore the use of agricultural by-products, minerals, or industrial waste to synthesize nano silicon, aiming for environmentally friendly and economical production methods. Some of these studies have also looked into optimizing production processes like chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or sol-gel techniques.
2. Research Progress
We have successfully extracted silica from rice husk and quartz. The next step involves converting this silica into nano silicon. Currently, we are investigating various methods for this conversion, which may include direct or indirect approaches, such as chemical or physical processes. Each step of the process will be meticulously tested using different techniques to confirm the properties of the resulting product. Once optimized, the process will be scaled up for mass production, and the final product will be patented.
We have received a recommendation for financial support from the Pakistan Science Foundation for this research project. However, the allocated grant is insufficient to complete the work. Therefore, we are seeking additional funding of approximately 8.0 million Pakistani rupees to ensure the successful execution and completion of this project.
We have received a recommendation for financial support for the research project from the Pakistan Science Foundation. However, the allocated grant is insufficient to complete the work. Therefore, we require additional funding of approximately 8.0 million Pakistani rupees to fully achieve the objectives of this project.
3. Cooperation Required
We need, along with finance, cooperation in sample analyses through those instruments that are not available to us in Pakistan, such as Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy, etc.
4. Benefits
-Cost Reduction: By using locally sourced materials, the production costs of nano silicon can be significantly lowered.
-Sustainability: The project promotes environmentally friendly practices by utilizing local resources and reducing dependency on imported materials.
-Economic Growth: It can stimulate local industries and create job opportunities through the development of new manufacturing processes.
-Technological Advancement: It can enhance the production of nano silicon for applications in electronics, energy storage, and other advanced technologies.
-Resource Efficiency: Optimizing the use of local raw materials reduces waste and maximizes resource utilization.
5. Outputs
Academic Publications – Research papers published in high-impact journals and conference proceedings.
Technical Patents – Patents for novel methods of nano silicon synthesis from local raw materials.
Industrial Prototypes – Development of pilot-scale nano silicon production processes.
Commercial Feasibility Reports – Assessment of market potential and cost-effectiveness.
Environmental Impact Studies – Analysis of sustainability and ecological benefits.
Collaboration & Technology Transfer – Partnerships with industries for large-scale application.