News
The CSIR congratulates Dr Rachel Chikwamba, CSIR Group Executive for the Chemicals, Agriculture, Food and Health division for being recognised by Apolitical as one of the world’s 50 most influential people navigating disruption.
Dr Chikwamba is one of the four people recognised in the Collaborators category. She has been recognised for leading the implementation of the CSIR’s research, development and innovation strategy in various sectors, working closely with local and international partners to improve sectoral competitiveness and socioeconomic performance through innovation.
Magnesite softening reverse osmosis and valorisation technology
The CSIR has developed a zero liquid discharge technology to minimise the ecological footprints of acid mine drainage (AMD). AMD has been a thorny issue in South Africa for many decades and continues to contaminate both freshwater sources and the environment.
The CSIR thermal laboratory
The CSIR Energy Research Centre, in partnership with the South African National Energy Development Institute, is establishing a thermal system support programme for the South African industry. Through thermo-fluid process optimisation and targeted technology development, the programme will assist industry to reduce the energy costs and carbon emissions associated with process heating systems.
The CSIR Solar Photovoltaic Facility
The electricity generated by the solar photovoltaic (PV) plants installed at the CSIR Pretoria campus has reduced the CSIR’s electricity bill by over R14 million since 2015.
The CSIR powder characterisation facility
For producers of materials and components made from metal powders, identification of key powder characteristics for specific process conditions may enable these end-users to specify powder requirements, potentially reducing raw material cost and waste.
Medical Device and Diagnostic Innovation Cluster (MeDDIC) programme
The CSIR is assisting new entrants to the medical device market with product lifecycle management support.
The medical device innovation process follows a path from concept creation through to design and development, including the necessary technical and clinical testing phases, design transfer for manufacturing, manufacturing, and post-market surveillance activities. This requires product lifecycle management support to assist new entrants into the market.
The CSIR mechanical testing laboratory
The mechanical properties of structural components are critical as they indicate how materials perform when subjected to stress. The CSIR’s mechanical testing laboratory supports mechanical properties testing for the research and development of light metals.
The CSIR’s Low speed wind tunnel
With over 50 years’ experience, the CSIR’s wind tunnel infrastructure plays a pivotal role in aeronautical development in South Africa.
Mine Fires and Explosion Research, Testing and Training Facility
The CSIR is expanding and enhancing its training offering to include immersive, experiential training in emergency response procedures, including the use of self-contained self-rescuers.