Advance Nanotech, Inc., (OTC BB:AVNA.OB - News) in partnership with The University of Bristol, today announced funding for a new program to develop enhanced high-efficiency, low-voltage Field Emission Displays (FED). The Nanolight program, led by Professor David Cherns, head of the microstructures group at the University of Bristol, will begin immediately.
"With the rising costs of energy around the globe and increased concern over the environmental impact of battery disposal, there is an immediate need for high-efficiency, low-cost sources for displays, backlights and architectural lighting," says Peter Gammel, senior vice president, electronics, at Advance Nanotech. "Phosphor screens are a key element in such devices, but conventional phosphors lack the necessary efficiency when operated at low voltage. The enhanced phosphor coatings we are developing are environmentally friendly and will lead to displays that consume 90 percent less energy critical for the widespread deployment of mobile video and interactive gaming."
The first phase of the Nanolight program will evaluate the feasibility of generating new low-voltage phosphor coatings for FEDs already being developed by Advance Nanotech’s NanoFED subsidiary. In the second stage of the program, researchers will explore the potential of low-cost backlighting or large panel white light sources suitable for domestic applications based on these technologies.
Advance Nanotech is currently funding 20 portfolio companies in the electronics, biopharma, and materials industries. The firm provides services ranging from funding, to human capital and research equipment essential to ensuring that the most promising companies can accelerate the path to rapid commercialization. In this way, investor exposure to any particular technology is mitigated with Advance Nanotech retaining the option to increase investment in those technologies that successfully mature.
The investment in the Nanolight program was made in partnership with The University of Bristol. In late 2004, Advance Nanotech committed $2 million to a two-year multidisciplinary development program combining the University’s nanotechnology expertise in the fields of chemistry and physics. The University of Bristol’s nanotechnology team comprises lead scientist Dr. Neil Fox, Professor Mike Ashfold, head of physical and theoretical chemistry, and Professor David Cherns, head of the microstructures group in physics.