Innovations

Connecting Communities Zenzeleni is a solar-powered, community-owned Wifi telecommunications network solution providing affordable communications to remote rural areas. Through the use of wireless mesh networking, users are able to make free internal voice-over IP calls, while the cost of breakout

The invention is a digital prediction tool that uses three biomarkers and blood pressure readings to accurately predict and quantify future risk of chronic stress and resulting diabetes, ischemic heart disease and stroke. Using a proprietary algorithm, formulated from 30 years of clinical research

South Africa harbours the highest number of rape incidents in the world, and sexual assault and rape cases in the entire SADC region are estimated at a minimum of 55 000 cases per year. Crime scene investigations utilise DNA technology on a regular basis. In cases of rape or sexual abuse, male

The current patterns of production and consumption of conventional plastics are unsustainable. Conventional plastics are non-biodegradable, leading to visible pollution in soil, marine environments and the air when discarded, landfilled or burnt. Products that are practically non-recyclable, such as

The CSIR has developed a smartphone technology that is used as a detection system for analysing biomolecular assays or chemical reactions. The smartphone is used to capture one or more images of the biomolecular assays, which are processed by way of bespoke hardware and software to provide

Drug regimens have not been optimised for individuals of African descent. This is due to several converging factors, including Africa’s diverse genetics, disproportionate disease burdens (and consequently a high dependency on specific drug regimens), as well as under-representation of local

Fleet owners and distribution agents face a myriad of challenges. These include crimes such as cargo theft and hijackings; vehicle misuse; and high costs of fuel, insurance and maintenance, including mechanical failures and power outages affecting traffic flow. The CSIR has developed a web-based

Acute kidney injury presents as a rapid decrease in renal function and can be caused by severe trauma, illness, surgery or chronic medication, such as the use of antiretroviral treatment. Many assays used in disease detection were developed decades ago, and their performance is lacking. This is the

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are immune system proteins that are used in targeted drug therapy and prophylaxis and are in high demand around the world to fight diseases. Despite advancements in biomedical technology, current methods for producing mAbs – primarily mammalian cell cultures – can be

Some 13,000 ships enter South Africa’s eight ports annually. These ports process some 10,000 containerised loads per day. Many industries rely on imports and exports via the country’s ports, where a safe port environment, with minimal disruptions while loading or offloading cargo, is critical

The CSIR has developed a smartphone technology that is used as a detection system for analysing biomolecular assays or chemical reactions. The smartphone is used to capture one or more images of the biomolecular assays, which are processed by way of bespoke hardware and software to provide

The CSIR developed a turret that can be used on the Mamba Mk III used by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). Mounted on the roof of the vehicle, the turret provides an arc of fire of 360° and offers protection for the gunner from small arms fire. The SANDF requirement was for the