NMDC MAKES NANO-CRYSTALLINE POWDER FROM BLUE DUST

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National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), a public sector unit of the Steel Ministry has entered into technical collaborations with Moscow State Institute of Steel and Alloys (MISA) for undertaking development work relating to preparation of nano-crystalline powder from blue dust. Nano-Crystalline Material is considered as material for future. High purity iron ore fines are generally called blue dust. NMDC has a procedure for periodical replacement of obsolete equipment and up-gradation of the facilities so that R&D centre remains a leader in the competitive world globally.

Nano crystalline powder is used in magnetic materials, multilayered, multifunctional coatings, optic electronics and manufacture of semi conductors. Its potential customers are Department of Defence, IBM, INTEL of U.S.A, Sony, Hitachi, Toshiba companies of Japan, Sweden and Germany. Its cost is approximately US$ 200-350 per kg.

The objective of the collaborative work is development of value added products from blue dust to create more avenues for utilization and consumption of blue dust at its Bailadila Mines. In March, 2003 NMDC has signed a MOU with MISA for undertaking development work relating to preparation of nano crystalline powder from blue dust.