TRL 5 – Prototype tested in a controlled environment

The Department of Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch University has developed a novel solvent-based process for extracting cannabinoids directly from plant-wax waste streams generated during industrial processing. The method uses a simple but effective combination of two immiscible solvents, one...

Researchers at Stellenbosch University have developed a proprietary buffer that enables a high-temperature (50°C) IVT process, solving a key industry challenge. Unlike standard buffers that suffer a ~40% yield loss at high temperature, this formulation maintains ~93% RNA yield with standard enzyme...

ImmerseCell is a virtual reality experience (VLE) to teach undergraduate and postgraduate students about key cellular structures with an interactive, narrated, guided experience (Figure 1,  Figure 2). The team utilised real-world microscopy data of various key cellular structures in the mammalian...

Radar technology is well suited to solutions such as those to protect helicopters. The CSIR was approached by SAAB Grintek Defence, a leading supplier of aircraft self-protection suites, to collaboratively develop a radar-based hostile fire indicator sensor to add to its existing platform protection...

A camera, roughly the size of that used for CCTV, can locate gunshots by detecting potassium emissions from the muzzle flash. Dubbed, ‘The K-line camera’ (K being the symbol for potassium on the periodic table), it can be integrated into a CCTV network in a hotspot area for gun-related crime...

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...

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...

This technology offers a next-generation creatine powder formulated with food-grade components that enable instant mixing in water and long-term shelf stability. When added to liquid, the powder disperses rapidly and forms a clear, grit-free solution within seconds, avoiding the sedimentation and...

The Adult Diaper consists of a reusable outer casing and a disposable, biodegradable inner lining that can be easily removed. There is a growing need for affordable, well-designed, and absorbent adult diapers for the elderly market. The cost for individuals or care homes is high, especially in terms...

South Africa's manufacturing sector, particularly in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and electronics, requires high-precision measurement tools. The proposed Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) addresses this need by offering enhanced accuracy and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional...