Scientists from the University of Manchester have been working on
tiny environmentally friendly magnets for use in high-tech gadgets.
A team of geomicrobiologists have found a way to make the
nanometre-sized devices using natural bacteria.
The magnets could be used in mobile phones and recording equipment,
reducing the need for toxic chemicals and energy-intensive
production.
Using iron-reducing bacteria, they were able to create iron oxide
nanoparticles that have the same magnetic properties as those made
through chemical processes.
The tiny devices could also have uses in the delivery of cancer
therapies and other drugs, allowing doctors to target the release
of chemicals into the body more effectively.
"This is exciting work that raises the exciting prospect of a
biologically friendly, energy-efficient method of producing
nanomagnets tailored for different uses," said Manchester
University professor Richard Patrick.
Last month, it was announced that university scientists in the
northwest city were leading a £2.2 million project to develop
new green manufacturing methods for the chemical industry.
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