In Namibia, the Leibniz Institute for New Materials and the University of Namibia have launched a joint project to develop new materials—based on Namibia’s local natural resources—for industrial applications.
Dubbed NaMiComp, the work is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
“Many different skills are needed to transform a natural product into a commercially profitable material,” says Günter Weber, INM’s Business Director. “This starts with the analysis of the different types of wood, and includes the actual material and product development right through to the marketing of potential products.”
Acacia trees and shrubs, which can be used to produce fire-resistant building materials in housing construction, will be among the potential feedstocks evaluated. Acacia overgrowth has been an environmental issue in Namibia.
NaMiComp’s long-term goals also include construction of a materials science institute at the University of Namibia.