The Federal University of Technology, Minna, STEP-B Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology, has produced the first carbon nanoparticles in Nigeria.

The research was conducted through the use of one of the centre’s Catalytic Vapour Deposition Reactor (CVD) at the Bosso Campus.
Coordinator of the research team, who is also the Deputy Dean, School of Engineering & Engineering Technology, Dr. Abdulkareem Saka said the research is a landmark achievement in the history of the university owing to the fact that no institution in the country has recorded the breakthrough done by the team.

He said the researchers developed their catalyst to produce the carbon nanoparticles of two grams within 45 minutes of production at the first attempt.

According to him, the production would go a long way in assisting drugs delivery, fuel cell technology, solar energy development, new high performance material, improved molecular sieve as well as various bio-medical genetics and electronic advancement.

The nanoparticles will also be used for waste-water treatment, forming metal composite, developing solar cells, noting that it will enhance learning and research in the university due to the fact that some postgraduate students are currently working in such areas.

“This research breakthrough will help us to save cost that we would have used to buy the catalyst from our collaborators in South Africa to produce the nanoparticles,” Dr. Saka revealed.

Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Musbau Akanji, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the research and urged the research team not to relent but to do more towards making the university a research reference point in the country.

The research was conducted by Masters and PhD students of the institution.