NZ scientists develop nano-wire technology

3.50pm

An innovation from Canterbury University's commercial arm is creating interest in the business world.

Scientists have spent six years researching nano-wire technology, to gain more flexibility when placing atoms.

The technology has applications in areas such as microscopic computers, cancer-killing antennae and hydrogen fuel cells for non-polluting cars.

Business analyst Roger Kerr says the university now has a joint venture partner in the United States and is looking for investors to raise $2.75 million.

He says the company has the international patent for the technology but also needs patents from individual countries, which is an expensive exercise.

Mr Kerr believes it is a speculative investment and says it remains to be seen whether it can be successfully commercialised.

- Newstalk ZB