Thailand deploys synchrotron and nano-tech to solve water and agricultural issues

Professor Yotsanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), has spearheaded the deployment of advanced scientific technologies to address critical community issues in Thailand.

In Chiang Rai, MHESI and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) introduced a water filtration system utilizing synchrotron and nanotechnology. This innovation is designed to remove 100% of arsenic and heavy metal contaminants from raw water sources, such as the Kok River, converting it into safe drinking water. The system features a three-layer filtration process and a reusable resin that can last four to five years, providing a cost-effective solution for local communities.

In Songkhla, the Minister visited regional centers to promote technological solutions for flood management and the shrimp industry. This included inspecting a real-time water situation monitoring center to assist farmers and discussing research support with the Thai Shrimp Association to combat shrimp diseases. The initiative aims to use scientific data to improve infrastructure development and upskill the workforce in southern provinces through robotics and automation training.