Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10321/3944
Title: Business modelling for the quality control and commercialisation of engineered nano-materials
Authors: Hezekiah, Oladimeji 
Keywords: Commercialisation;Nanotechnology materials;Quality control;Business enterprises
Issue Date: Aug-2021
Abstract: 
Nanotechnology is viewed by many as the technology that will create new opportunities
for wealth and job creation. Meanwhile, despite nanotechnology’s shuddering of the
global economy, breaking into the markets have been increasingly onerous for many
reasons. This study investigates emerging applications and the commercialisation of
nanotechnology materials. It also deals with the opportunities and challenges associated
with the possible acceleration of the commercialisation of applications of nanotechnology
materials. Significant factors influencing the acceleration of nanotechnology materials
onto the markets were identified through a series of literature reviews and surveys
conducted with nanotechnology researchers. Common characteristics for the
achievement of the successful commercialisation of nano-induced products were
identified.
This study adopted a purposive sampling technique. The study population for the survey
was made up of active researchers. The reliability test of the survey items was internally
consistent with a Cronbach's alpha index of α = 0.926. Qualitative analyses entailed the
researchers in nanotechnology who were interviewed through the Delphi technique.
Quantitative results were obtained in the study through a hybrid technique of the
Analytical Hierarchy Process and the Data Envelopment Analysis (AHP/DEA).
This research identified and evaluated several critical factors for the effective
commercialisation of nanotechnology and engineered nano-materials (ENMs) through a
review of recent and current literature, as well as suggestions of academic experts in
nanotechnology through the Delphi method. Thirty-four (34) critical factors grouped into
ten (10) dimensions were identified and evaluated for importance and subsequently for
priority scaling. The framework for this research used a hybrid approach of the Analytical
Hierarchy Process and the Data Envelopment Analysis (AHP/DEA) The Analytical
Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique was implemented in the evaluation of these critical factors for effective nanotechnology commercialisation decision-making. Furthermore,
the DEA was suitably used in validating the AHP priority model obtained.
This analytical approach provided support for quality control and the commercialisation
of the decision-making process. The study concluded by proposing a framework to
provide scientific knowledge that will help researchers, technology investors and
managers in the commercialisation process of nanotechnology and engineered nanomaterials. A strong recommendation was made for robust fundamental research for viable
commercial production and improvement for the enhancement of a nano ethic.
Description: 
Submitted in fulfillment of the requirements of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy: Operations and Quality, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2021.
URI: https://hdl.handle.net/10321/3944
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51415/10321/3944
Appears in Collections:Theses and dissertations (Management Sciences)

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