The Assistant Minister for Higher Education, Jelena Starčević, opened the international conference "NanoPol 2024" today at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics of the University of Banja Luka.
In addition to local experts, the two-day conference dedicated to the latest topics in the field of polymers and nanomaterials will feature specialists from Italy, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Slovenia, Serbia, and Egypt.
"In the last few decades, we have witnessed tremendous advances in science and technology, where nanotechnologies and polymers, as modern materials, have taken a central role and completely transformed the world. I am pleased that our Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics has been organising this conference for several years, as part of the very significant DeepGreenInno project. This project is the first coordinating project of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, which is a great achievement," said Starčević.
The Ministry, she added, recognised this project and contributed to its activities through financial support.
Professor Suzana Gotovac Atlagić from the Chemistry Study Programme emphasised that nanomaterials and polymers are two extremely important classes of materials in the modern world and contemporary technologies.
"In our study programme, both classes of materials are predominantly researched in students' final papers and master's theses. We strive to connect with domestic industries in most of these studies," said Atlagić.
According to her, there is an industry for nanomaterials and polymers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
"Polymers are usually classified as thermoplastic materials, although polymers are a much broader class of materials. At the conference, we will emphasise biodegradable polymers, which do not harm nature and decompose naturally after use," highlighted Atlagić.
She added that the goal of the conference is to draw attention to the potential of the country in the field of nanomaterials and polymers.
Dalibor Kesić, Vice-Rector for Human and Material Resources of the University of Banja Luka, stated that the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics keeps pace with the latest knowledge and achievements in science.
"At this conference, we have guest appearances and cooperation within the coordinating programme of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, with significant international participation. We have colleagues from Italy, Slovenia, Spain, North Macedonia, and Serbia, and we also have papers from colleagues in Germany, France, and Hungary," said Kesić.