The evidence of our warming continent and the impact on SA industrial sectors
Bio-degradable plastic bags
The CSIR is making fully bio-degradable plastic materials by using plant-based polymers to replace the currently used synthetic polymers. The technology will see plastic bags that end up in landfills bio-degrading within 90 days.
Towards smart water use in South African apple orchards
Understanding the water use of apple orchards in a dry country like South Africa is increasingly important. Zanele Ntshidi is part of a CSIR team of scientists that is studying the water use of apple orchards in the Western Cape.
CSIR develops chemical-free water purification solution for water in rural areas
The CSIR together with local and international partners has developed a low-cost purification system to help make water in rural and peri-urban areas safe to drink. The system uses no chemicals and less energy than conventional systems.
Discovery of a new coastal current off Madagascar
South African, Malagasy and French researchers have discovered the existence of a coastal current off Madagascar. The newly-described current, the South-west Madagascar Coastal Current, flows poleward off the south-west coast of Madagascar.
Laser-based Manufacturing Facility
New device monitors indoor airborne infection risk
The CSIR has developed an electronic device that monitors indoor carbon dioxide levels and generates an alarm when corrective action is needed.
The CSIR tests a novel turbine wing for its inventor
The CSIR has tested a novel new turbine wing for its South African inventor, using the organisation’s seven-metre wind tunnel. The wing, called BRAYFOIL, was assessed by researchers for its power output potential.
The CSIR Biomanufacturing Industry Development Centre 2018
Insects: Unlikely heroes in the quest for alternative protein
The CSIR has proven the viability of using mealworms – industrially bred on agricultural waste – as protein for poultry and fish feed. This makes it possible to establish rural enterprises that rear insects, make animal feeds and farm fish and poultry.
A novel encapsulation technology to protect probiotics
The CSIR has developed a novel technology that protects probiotics from environmental effects during storage and from gastric fluids when ingested, to improve their health-imparting benefits.
Assisting enterprises to create market-ready products and services
The CSIR helps enterprises in the bio innovation space with product development. In the case of Marple Skin Care, researchers have ensured that its products meet the necessary shelf-life and validation requirements to ensure a high quality product.
A blueprint for an energy-grid for South Africa's rural communities
CSIR energy researchers are working on the wind component of a mini-grid project in the Eastern Cape that will in future be rolled out to areas that do not have access to the national electricity grid.
CSIR conducts 3D model studies for a proposed tidal pool in Port St Johns
Some of the biggest and busiest ports in the world have been tested at the CSIR’s coastal and hydraulics laboratory.
Bioengineering cells for precision medication for the South African population
CSIR bioengineers are combining stemcell technology and genome engineering to help improve the efficacy and safety of medication for the African population.
A framework to guide investments in the Western Cape’s ecological infrastructure
The Western Cape Government has commissioned the CSIR to develop an investment framework that will inform decisions on where and how to invest in the region’s ecological infrastructure.