innovate arkansas

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock's nanotechnology researchers briefed members of the Joint Legislative Committee on Advanced Communications and Information Technology Tuesday on industrial applications of their research.

Researchers said they are turning laboratory research into new businesses and new jobs for Arkansas' economy.

Alex Biris, science director of the Nanotechnology Center at UALR, discussed how the center is applying its research by creating new products and services in the marketplace.

The center's research has resulted in six patents in nanotubes with one more in the writing stage, and one patent in tissue engineering with two more in the writing phase. Four more patents are in the works.

The market for nanotechnology-enhanced materials is predicted to grow 31 percent annually, a growth potential that holds enormous promise for Arkansas' economic development.

"We are taking every piece of information [from the research] and working to turn it into a company," said Tom Walker, director of the center.