Top News of February 2025 with ANA

Azad News Agency (ANA) published a number of scientific and technological news in February 2025 whose top ones are as follows:

Tehran to Host Eurasia Expo 2025 in February

Iran is due to host the Third Eurasia Exhibition titled ‘Eurasia Expo 2025’ Tehran Permanent International Fairgrounds on February 21-24.

The exhibition which will be held by the Trade Promotion Organization of Iran (TPOI) will be participated by trade-economic companies and technological- and knowledge-based firms.

The exhibition will be held in Tehran after a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed between Iran and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and due to the importance of developing economic and trade cooperation with the member states of the union.

This prestigious international exhibition will be held for a period of three days with the participation of trade-business delegations from EAEU member states, technological and knowledge-based companies to provide a platform for interaction, exchange of experiences and achievements, international cooperation, and export of domestically manufactured products to the Eurasian countries.

The Eurasia Expo 2025 will be a platform for showcasing products in the fields of oil, gas, petrochemicals and related industries, agriculture and food industries, automobiles, transportation, tourism, medicine and medical equipment, banking, insurance and guarantee funds, knowledge-based products and services, and advanced technologies.

Iran Declares 18 Percent Jump in Non-Oil Exports in 10 Month

Iranian Economy Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati announced that the country’s non-oil exports reached $47.8 billion in the first 10 months of the current Persian calendar year (to end on March 20), showing an 18% hike.

Hemmati said that the country imported $56 billion worth of non-oil goods, reflecting a modest growth of only three percent compared to the same period last year.

During this period, the country imported $6.3 billion worth of gold, he added.

Hemmati stated that Iran's balance of trade surplus, including both oil and non-oil sectors, exceeded $28 billion.

Customs data showed exports increased from $40.4 billion in the same period last year, while imports grew 3 percent to $56 billion.

Iran Developing Advanced Lithium-Ion Battery Industry

The director of Iran’s Nano Battery Network announced that the country is moving towards the production of a new generation of advanced lithium-ion batteries

“Lithium-ion batteries are a new generation of batteries in the world that have experienced significant growth in the last three decades. Now, some work has started in this field initially in Iran, but on a global scale, we have a big gap with leading countries. More investments and efforts are needed to be made in this field,” Mohammad Ali Baqerian told ANA.

“Fortunately, several knowledge-based companies have now entered this field and have been able to develop these technologies to a Technology Maturity Level (TRL) of six, and have even made innovations in some of these components that are notable on a global scale,” he added.

Iran to Hold Specialized Electronics Bootcamp

A specialized electronics bootcamp is due to be held by the Iran International Innovation Zone with the aim of training and attracting specialized personnel in knowledge-based and technological companies

Sajjad Abbasi Fashami, an official at Pardis Science and Technology Park, underlined the successful experience of specialized bootcamps focusing on training and employment of specialized personnel, and said, “The specialized electronics bootcamp will be held in the winter and spring with the efforts of the Iran International Innovation Zone and the support of the Iranian Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy.”

“This bootcamp is designed based on the needs announced by the knowledge-based and technological companies that are members of the Iran International Innovation Zone,” he added.

“The specialized electronics bootcamp includes training in technical and operational skills, soft skills, field visits to knowledge-based companies and industrial units active in the electronics field, implementation of operational projects, and holding several experience transfer panels,” Abbasi Fashami said.

Iranian Company Supplies Nano-Based Disinfectant, Wound-Healing Products

An Iranian company has produced and marketed world-class disinfectant and wound-healing products by using silver nanoparticles and other biocompatible materials.

One of the important achievements of the company is the production of disinfectant products, which are designed and manufactured based on silver nanocolloid technology and can destroy a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. These products are available in various types, including wound, burn, hand, surface, medical device and skin disinfectant solutions.

By producing hemostatic products, the company has taken a major step in the management of severe and uncontrollable bleeding. These products are designed to quickly stop arterial, venous and capillary bleeding in various conditions, including trauma, surgery, dentistry and nosebleeds.

The company has revolutionized the field of wound healing by producing bioactive dressings based on chitosan. Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide extracted from the shells of marine crustaceans and the cell walls of fungi. It is recognized as one of the most important natural materials in modern medicine due to its antimicrobial properties, biocompatibility, and ability to accelerate wound healing.

Iran-Made Ultra-Hard Nanocoating Device Presented to Int’l Market

A knowledge-based company in Iran has produced and marketed advanced ultra-hard coating devices by using the PVD method which can increase the lifespan of industrial parts by up to 200 times and create a major revolution in the car-making, oil and gas, aerospace and medical industries.

Physical vapor deposition (PVD) technology is one of the advanced surface engineering methods that greatly increases the resistance of components to wear, corrosion and friction by creating nanostructured coatings on them.

In this method, metals like titanium, chromium and zirconium are evaporated in vacuum conditions and deposited as thin layers on the surface of the components. These coatings not only increase the lifespan of the components, but also improve their performance efficiency.

The machines of the Iranian knowledge-based company, utilize modern technologies and enjoy world-class capabilities that make them competitive with foreign models. With these machines simultaneously performing nanolayer coatings with different compositions is possible and the coating speed in this machine is very high.

The nanocoatings produced by the company have many applications in various industries, including car-making industry, oil and gas industry, medical industry, aerospace industry.

The knowledge-based company has so far succeeded in exporting its products to China and is in talks with several other countries for exports.

Iranian Company Uses Nanotechnology for Formation of Natural Bone Materials

Iranian researchers at a knowledge-based company succeeded in developing biocompatible nanomaterials that, by accurately mimicking the structure and function of bone tissue, lead the process of bone repair and regeneration in a natural and efficient way.

“The hydroxyapatite product manufactured by our company is a chemical compound that can be used as a source of phosphorus and calcium for the human body,” Mir Abdollah Seyed Sajjadi, the managing director of the knowledge-based company, told ANA.

He explained that the product is used as bone powder for orthopedic surgeons, dentists, as a dietary supplement, and also in the production of health and cosmetic products.

“The use of hydroxyapatite powder can meet people's needs in strengthening bones and increasing dental health, preventing reduced absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and therefore using this product can help improve people's quality of life,” Seyed Sajjadi said.

Official: South Pars Providing 73 Percent of Iran’s Gas

An Iranian official announced that the South Pars filed is now providing 73% of the country’s needed gas.

“Today, the complex is producing 73% of the country’s gas,” said Saeed Heidari, the commercial manager of the South Pars Gas Complex.

He highlighted that over 95% of the strategic parts and equipment needed for the South Pars Gas Complex refineries have now been localized.

“We expect that, with the excellent cooperation of domestic manufacturers and producers, this capability will reach 100% this year,” Heidari said.

He added that in collaboration with 120 domestic and new technology-based firms (NTBFs), over 11,500 essential equipment data-x-items and goods have been localized for the South Pars refineries.

Heidari stated that domestic manufacturers have consistently proven to be a strong pillar of support for the South Pars Gas Complex.

Iranian Biologists Improve Productivity of Rose

Iranian researchers succeeded in improving the productivity of rose and its wider use in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and health industries.

“Phytochemical, molecular study and pollination incompatibility in a number of rose genotypes and their hybrids" is the title of Hamid Ahadi's doctoral thesis, which he completed with the support of the National Science Foundation of Iran.

“Considering the importance of rose essential oil in the perfumery and food industries, the exports of this valuable product can significantly contribute to the country's economy. Therefore, the improvement of rose to achieve new varieties with high-quality essential oil percentage is very important,” said Ahadi.

“In this project, in addition to the phytochemical study of selected genotypes, targeted hybridization was carried out to achieve superior hybrids, and transcriptome studies to identify genes related to essential oil production,” he added.

“The results of this research can take a big step towards the classical and molecular improvement of Rose,” Ahadi said.

Several Iranian Knowledge-Based Companies Attend Dubai’s ‘Arab Health’ Expo

Iran's national pavilion was set up at the ‘Arab Health’ exhibition held in Dubai on January 27-30, 2025.

Arab Health 2025, the intersection of cutting-edge technologies, revolutionary concepts, and healthcare experts, is reshaping the healthcare landscape.

The event took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 27 to 30 January 2025.

It provided a platform to address and outline global challenges in the field of health care, while creating opportunities for participants to connect with stakeholders from around the world and share the advancements and achievements of the sector.

The Iranian knowledge-based companies which attended the exhibition displayed their latest products in the fields of advanced medical equipment, smart therapeutic devices, disease diagnosis technologies, biotechnology products, and specialized health software.

Iran-Made Nano-Based Products Protect Vehicle, Construction Parts

An Iranian knowledge-based company used nanotechnology to make special products which can be used to protect the construction and automotive parts and increase their strength.

With five products in the construction and automotive fields that have nanoscale certification, the company has taken an important step towards improving the quality and extending the life of structures and cars.

The company has used nanotechnology to design products for different parts of the car that, in addition to increasing beauty, help maintain and extend the lifespan of the car.

Car wash containing nanoparticles, car wheel and dashboard polish and cleaner, car engine wash, hydrophobic cement-based mortar containing nanoparticles, and polyurethane-based superhydrophobic coating containing nanoparticles are the products made by the company.

Iranian Firm Produces Coated Cotton Seeds for Saline Lands

A knowledge-based company in Iran has managed to produce coated cotton seeds for cultivation in saline lands that are available to farmers at one-third of the price of imported products.

“Our company has succeeded in producing coated cotton seeds that are available to the farmers at one-third of the price of similar imported products. This will eliminate the need for the country to import cotton seeds,” said Mohsen Fathi, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

“Seed coating is one of the most important economic methods to improve seed performance. In the seed coating process, materials like fungicides, insecticides, immunostimulants, growth hormones, low-consumption elements, and other compounds are directly applied to the seed,” he added.

Fathi explained that the direct use of fungicides and insecticides directly on the seeds reduces the consumption of these substances at the beginning of the growing season and reduces their environmental risks.

“Also, seed coating causes uniformity in seed size and facilitates mechanical planting of seeds. This causes uniform and better green fields, and as a result, the yield and income of farmers increase,” he added.

Afghanistan Exports 29.5 Million Dollars Worth of Saffron in 9 Months

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce reports that over 42,200 kilograms of Afghan saffron, valued at $29.588 million, were exported to various countries during the first nine months of 1403 (solar year started on March 20th, 2024).

Akundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, the spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized that most Afghan saffron exports were made to India, Spain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Australia, and Turkey, Tolonews reported.

"In the first nine months of (1403 solar year), Afghanistan exported 42,200 kilograms of saffron, worth approximately $29.588 million, to countries including India, Spain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, Australia, Turkey, and others,” the spokesperson said.

Afghan saffron, recognized as one of the country’s most valuable agricultural products, enjoys global acclaim.

Iranian Scientists Develop Ultra-Thin Absorbers

Iranian Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Professor Younes Ra’di and his research team introduced a new concept for designing ultra-thin absorbers that enables absorbing layers with a record-high bandwidth-to-thickness ratio, potentially several times greater than that of absorbers designed using conventional approaches.

Absorbers designed based on this concept can achieve a bandwidth-to-thickness ratio arbitrarily close to the ultimate bound. Utilizing this concept, they designed and experimentally verified an absorber yielding a very high bandwidth-to-thickness ratio.

“Our findings have the potential to make significant contributions to various industries, including defense, energy harvesting, and advanced communication systems, by addressing critical challenges in electromagnetic absorption technology,” said Ra’di.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our work attracting international recognition, not only from the scientific community but also from key players across various industries,” he added.

“I am immensely proud of my team for their dedication and hard work, which have led to these groundbreaking results. Publishing in a prestigious journal like Nature Communications is a testament to their exceptional efforts and the importance of our research,” Ra’di noted.

Iranian Knowledge-Based Firm Makes Simulator for Dentistry Students

Iranian researchers at a knowledge-based company succeeded in designing and building a dental surgery medical training simulator.

This device is designed specifically for dental surgeries. In addition to providing the dentistry students with the ability to physically perform surgery, the device includes a series of training courses dedicated to each stage of surgery. The training courses are displayed in three dimensions (3D) and simulate the clinical space for the student, so that they can realistically experience all stages of surgery.

In this device, all the necessary tools for dental surgery, including turbines, mirrors, and pedals, are simulated. The dentistry students complete various courses in this device and are then tested by a scoring system at the end.

This scoring system helps the students understand the extent of their errors. Before they enters the actual surgical phase on a patient, they can practice their skills on this device to prevent potential errors.

Iranian Knowledge-Based Firm Produces Lab Equipment for Schools

An Iranian knowledge-based company has succeeded in making high-quality laboratory equipment for the country’s schools, and exported them to the neighboring states.

“Our activity is focused on the production of laboratory equipment related to physics grade 1 and 2. I have about 30 years of experience in this field and have so far cooperated with 70 to 80 universities across the country. We have also received quality approvals from some universities and have also equipped the laboratories of two universities in the Iraqi Kurdistan region,” Ali Mohammad Khaleqi, the director of Milad laboratory equipment production workshop, told ANA.

Noting that their products can compete in quality with foreign models, he said, “As a confirmation for this claim, the device we presented to Bu Ali Sina University 30 years ago is still working. We are the first in the field of quality.” “50 percent of the inclined plane, free fall and Atod machine devices that we presented to Bu Ali University 30 years ago are still in use. These devices are designed for the university level, although they are also suitable for high schools,” Khaleqi said.

Iranian Scientists Produce Radiopharmaceutical Used for 90 Percent of Cancer Patients

An Iranian knowledge-based company has succeeded in production of the active ingredient of technetium diagnostic radiopharmaceutical which can be used for 90% of cancer patients.

The radiopharmaceutical produced by the company, as one of the most specialized radiopharmaceuticals for lymph node diagnosis, has settled this problem. By injecting this radiopharmaceutical and performing a scan, surgeons can identify the exact location and extent of cancer-infected lymph nodes. This technology increases the accuracy of diagnosis and prevents unnecessary surgeries and its complications.

The production of this advanced radiopharmaceutical was monopolized by the US since 2013 but with the efforts of the Iranian specialists, the technical know-how for its production became completely indigenous. After successfully passing the preclinical stages, this medicine has entered the clinical phase.

This product is a complex polymer macromolecule that, in addition to being able to carry the technetium diagnostic radioisotope, can bind to receptors on the surface of cancer cells. This feature allows this drug to identify cancer cells with high accuracy.

Iranian Firm Makes Cost-Effective Hydraulic Knee Joint

A knowledge-based company in Iran has succeeded in producing the IR60 hydraulic knee joint, which facilitates the mobility and daily activities of people with knee amputations at an affordable price.

“This product enables the person to control the speed of movement in the two phases of flexion and extension separately. Also, the EBS mechanism in this joint, while entering the standing phase and when the heel hits the ground until entering the foot flexion phase, is responsible for controlling the secondary flexion and stability of the joint,” said Reza Iranpour, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

Noting that the technology leads to a reduction in the energy consumed by the person while walking and a reduction in the impact felt in the remaining limb, pelvis and spine, he said, “When EBS is inactive, the intersection of the lines of the 4-bar mechanism is located close to the instantaneous axis of rotation of the joint, which allows the person to bend the joint at will. However, when the EBS system is activated, this intersection is moved away from the instantaneous axis of rotation, and the locking mechanism prevents the joint from bending due to the passage of the weight line. This intelligent design provides the user with security and stability of movement.”

“Meantime, the resistance of the EBS system is directly related to the speed of movement, meaning that at higher speeds, the EBS function does not prevent the joint from moving smoothly,” Iranpour said.

Iranian Scientists at Royan Institute Make 5 Diagnostic, Therapeutic Products

Iranian researchers at one of the technological companies affiliated to Royan Research Institute succeeded in making five diagnostic and therapeutic products which can help treat cancers.

“Our company produces oligonucleotide products (miRNA, siRNA and antisense, probes and biomarkers) that are used to treat most diseases and cancers. Oligonucleotide products are designed against these genes and protect cells from becoming cancerous,” Sa’eed Mohebbi, the company’s R&D manager, told ANA.

He explained that sometimes heteroduplexing occurs, meaning the designed template is DNA, but it is used against RNA, and it destroys the RNA, which is the product of the pathogenic gene and progresses towards becoming cancerous, and prevents the cells from becoming cancerous.

“Some other molecules are microRNAs, or miRNAs for short, which regulate gene expression. Although these molecules inhibit gene expression, in some cases they work in favor of cancer cells, so we have designed a product called antagomirs. This product inhibits miRNA molecules and prevents the development of cancer cells,” Mohebbi said.

“siRNA is also designed against a specific gene and inhibits gene expression. Diagnostic products in this series also include a variety of probes and different forms of biomarkers. Markers and biomarkers enter the bloodstream and body fluids. Through these markers, a person can be identified as having cancer,” he added.

Iranian Researchers Develop Biocomputational Method to Show Effectiveness of Drugs

Iranian scientists at a technological center at the Royan Research Institute succeeded in presenting a biocomputational method to show which drugs are more effective during the outbreak of epidemics like the coronavirus.

“One of the important applications of biocomputational laboratories is that it reduces the use of animal models and, while respecting medical ethics and reducing costs, saves time,” Soudeh Mahdian, a PhD in biochemistry and postdoctoral researcher at the Royan Research Institute and a member of the company, told ANA.

“In this method, the effectiveness of drugs is evaluated using computational methods before the animal model is performed. During the outbreak of the coronavirus, most drugs were given to patients randomly. Then their effectiveness was evaluated, but with the biocomputational method, we can assess which drugs are more effective,” she added.

“Now, by implementing this method, we have achieved good results and have been able to have scientific cooperation with Baqiyatollah Hospital (in Tehran). We have also defined joint projects with several research institutes in this field,” Mahdian said.

Reducing Environmental Pollution with Iran-Made Oxidative Desulfurization Catalysts

A knowledge-based company in Iran has succeeded in indigenizing oxidative desulfurization catalysts which is an effective method for removing sulfur compounds in different oil fractions and significantly contributes to reduction of environmental pollutions.

“Oxidative desulfurization is an effective method for removing sulfur compounds present in various oil fractions. This method can also be used to regenerate sodium hydroxide (used caustic stream) used in MERAX units that use caustic to decrease the concentration of sulfur and mercaptans present in hydrocarbon fractions,” said Hassan Navayee Alvar, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

He explained that removing mercaptan compounds from various oil fractions and crude oil is possible by using the DMD process, which involves several steps.

“The technical know-how of producing this catalyst has been developed for the first time in Iran as a heterogeneous catalyst. The sample of this catalyst was produced in our plant and its performance was assessed through numerous tests on a laboratory scale and a continuous laboratory pilot and with feedstock from various refineries,” Navayee Alvar said.

“This catalyst, which has undergone its laboratory and pilot stages using feedstock from Shiraz and Tehran refineries, enjoys the potential to be commercialized in refineries, mini refineries and related centers, given the volume of fuel oil stored in Iran and the problem of providing low-sulfur fuel suitable for related uses, including shipping fuel,” he underlined.

Official Predicts 15-Billion-Dollar Market for Iran’s Medicinal Plants Next Year

The market capacity of Iran's herbal and traditional medicine for the next Persian calendar year (to start on March 21) is estimated at nearly 13-15 billion dollars, an official said.

“The value of this sector in the production and harvesting sector is $1.5 to $2 billion, in the import sector of medicinal plants $0.15 billion, in the export sector of medicinal plants $0.5 billion, and in the import sector of essential oils and extracts $0.3 billion,” said Seyed Seif Sahandi, the deputy head of the Technology Development Headquarters for Medicinal Plants and Traditional Medicine of Iran.

“The market capacity of medicinal plants and traditional medicine is estimated at approximately $13 to $15 billion,” he said, adding that the value chain of medicinal plants industries is $10 to $11 billion, and the value chain of traditional medicine is $2.7 to $4 billion.

“A year ago, the area under cultivation of medicinal plants was nearly 224,000 hectares, of which 50% is related to saffron cultivation. Cumin with 15%, rosehip with 10%, and fixweed with 5% are in the next ranks of the area under cultivation of medicinal plants, respectively,” Sahandi noted.

Iranian Scientists Produce Anti-Cancer Drug from ‘Chinese Lantern’ Plant

A member of the faculty of the Aerospace Research Institute, with the support of the National Science Foundation of Iran, succeeded in acquiring the technical know-how of in vitro propagation and cell suspension cultivation to produce the anti-cancer compound physalin from the Chinese Lantern (Alkekengi) plant.

“The Chinese Lantern is an annual or perennial plant that grows in temperate regions of the world. This plant has anti-cancer and anti-diabetic therapeutic properties and has received much attention today,” said Halimeh Hassanpour, a PhD in Plant Biology-Physiology and an associate professor of the Aerospace Physiology Department of the Aerospace Research Institute.

“Given the value of the physalin compound, we sought to regenerate and propagate the plant through tissue and cell culture to protect and sustainably utilize their genetic resources,” she added.

“In this research, the seeds were placed in a culture medium after sterilization, and the resulting seedlings were used for callus induction and cell suspension cultivation. The cells were then exposed to a specific magnetic field intensity and their medicinal metabolite content was stimulated,” Hassanpour said.

She noted that the results of this research, in addition to preserving the genetic resources of Iran’s indigenous and valuable medicinal species, have paved the way for the semi-industrial production of medicinal metabolites in vitro and the development of cell culture technology.

University of Tehran Scientists Design Material Interaction Detection Device

Iranian researchers at the Intelligent Systems Department of Interdisciplinary Faculties of Sciences and Technologies of the University of Tehran designed a new surface plasmon resonance imaging system.

“The technology used in this device is based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The SPR optical sensor system is an influential tool in biosensor technology that has an unlabeled nature, remarkable sensitivity, and the ability to provide real-time detection. SPR sensors provide accurate measurements of molecular interactions, including biological and chemical analytes, by considering changes in refractive indices,” said Mohammad Mohammadi Massoudi, a faculty member of the Intelligent Systems Department of Interdisciplinary Faculties of Sciences and Technologies of the University of Tehran.

“This device has significant advantages, including cost-effectiveness and the ability to perform simultaneous comparative studies. SPRI-based biosensors have attracted the attention of many researchers in the biochemical field due to their unique features, including multiple detection, simple and stable configuration, and real-time monitoring,” he added.

“In similar commercially produced samples, initial settings are required by inserting the sensor chip. However, in this device with the technique used, initial settings of the optical system are no longer required. Also, the cost of manufacturing the device is much lower than foreign samples,” Mohammadi Massoudi underlined.

Iranian Firm Develops Technological System to Intelligize Research, Educational Processes

An Iranian company has developed an innovative technological system of digital economy that by focusing on artificial intelligence technologies makes research and educational processes smarter.

“The Shivangar system is an innovative product in the field of digital economy that, by focusing on artificial intelligence technologies, makes research and educational processes smarter,” Mohammad Ali Saremi Nayeeni, the founder of Shivangar software and system stationed at the incubator center of the Islamic Azad University’s Yazd branch, told ANA on the sidelines of Asr-e Omid event in the Central city of Isfahan.

“By creating an integrated platform, this software helps researchers and students facilitate research processes and provides the opportunity to benefit from new digital achievements in the scientific field,” he added.

“Along with artificial intelligence, a serious approach to collecting and analyzing big data is on the agenda, the main goal of which is to create effective communication with society and industry, identify talents, and create job opportunities,” Nayeeni said.

“This strategy, focusing on innovation and intelligence, seeks to prevent undesirable and unethical uses of technology by taking advantage of its opportunities,” he noted.

Iranian Firm Finds Way for Creating IoT-Based Businesses with LoRaWAN Technology

An Iranian technological company has used LoraWAN technology in the field of digital economy which can reduce costs, increase productivity, create new businesses based on the Internet of Things, improve the quality of life, and provide better services to citizens.

“So far, we have worked on LoRaWAN technology and we have implemented different projects from smart cities to LoRaWAN-related fields,” Rassoul Sadeqi, the managing-director of the company, told ANA on the sidelines of Asr-e Omid event in Isfahan city.

“We use LoRaWAN technology in places where we need very brief information from a data, and the energy level required to send this data is also very low in a way that we can install the battery in a remote area and use it to measure parameters and replace the battery after 10 years; therefore, its energy consumption is very low,” he added.

Sadeqi explained that LoRaWAN technology is used in smart city management, smart lighting management, smart parking lot management, smart waste collection, agricultural monitoring (soil moisture, temperature and ambient light), livestock tracking, industrial equipment monitoring, management of various facilities, including warehouses and tracking medical equipment or specific diseases in the health sector, etc.

“In the field of digital economy, LoRaWAN technology can reduce costs, increase productivity, create new IoT-based businesses, improve the quality of life and provide better services to citizens,” he underlined.

Iran Conducts 2 Million Linear Kilometers of Airborne Geophysics to Track Hidden Minerals

The head of the Geological and Mineral Exploration Organization of Iran announced implementation of 2 million linear kilometers of airborne geophysics in cooperation with the private sector to track hidden minerals.

“Fortunately, the Seventh Development Plan has planned about 2 million linear kilometers for conducting airborne geophysics studies, and by conducting these studies, we will achieve approximately 70 or 80 percent of the desired data,” said Dariyoush Esmayeeli.

He added that 2 million linear kilometers of airborne geophysics have been conducted in cooperation with the private sector to find the hidden minerals so far.

Airborne geophysics is a non-invasive imaging technology that provides 2D and 3D representations of the ground and subsurface. It provides a homogeneous image, even in hard-to-reach areas.

Airborne geophysics allows the simultaneous implementation of several techniques for acquiring geophysical data quickly, including in areas that are difficult to access (forests, mountains) or which are devoted to a widespread economic activity, except in densely urbanised areas.

Measurements are made with geophysical instruments, usually carried on an aircraft or suspended under a helicopter. After processing and modelling/inversion, they yield a homogeneous, continuous and geolocated (with GPS precision) image of the geological subsurface environment, in 2D and 3D.

Airborne geophysics is a valuable decision-making tool for raw material prospecting, risk management and spatial planning, the assessment and management of groundwater resources or for underground energy extraction.

Iranian Firm Produces Central Water Purification Device for Hospital Systems

A knowledge-based company in Iran succeeded in production of central water purification devices for hospital systems which enjoy technologies like semi-automatic disinfection, programmable automatic washing of the dialysis water distribution line, vessel and membrane without dead space, and automatic data transfer to the user panel.

The knowledge-based company operates in the field of medical water purification and disinfection systems and, using modern and intelligent technologies in this field, provides products and services with high added value.

“Central water purification devices are produced in two versions, with and without a cabin. These devices are mounted on an all-steel chassis. Their design is based on the quality of the feed water and the number of active dialysis machines,” said Arash Pajouhandeh, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

"The advantages of this device include technologies like semi-automatic disinfection, programmable automatic washing of the dialysis water distribution line, vessel, and membrane without dead space, automatic data transfer to the user panel, easy access to advanced algorithm status analysis, and design and production in accordance with the ISO23500:2019 standard, which overall has increased the safety of the device," he added.

Iranian Firm Develops Quality Control Technology for Food Industry

An Iranian knowledge-based company has managed to develop specialized and advanced testing equipment and methods for inspecting, controlling and improving the quality of food products.

“Our knowledge-based company is active in the field of developing technologies and research in instrumental chemistry and classical and microbial chemistry in accordance with Iran’s national standards,” said Tohid Shamousi, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

He referred to the development of inspection methods and control tools, and said, “In this section, supply chain quality control, inspection, control and monitoring of goods entering dry and cold warehouses are carried out.”

“In the store inspection section, strict implementation of quality requirements and strict implementation of integrity in all stores are considered. In the evaluation section of manufacturing plants, classifications and checklists are carried out in accordance with the standards of this field,” Shamousi said.

Iran Exports over 1 Million Dollars of Nanoproducts Annually

The secretary of Iran Nanotechnology Innovation Council announced that the country has exported more than $1 million worth of nanotechnology products to six developed states in the past Persian calendar year (ended on March 20).

By exporting more than $1 million worth of nanotechnology products overseas, the country plays a leading role in the global nanotechnology market, said Emad Ahmadvand.

Iran is busy and active in the field of exporting nanotechnology products to different countries and is now cooperating with various countries in the world in the fields of textile products and related equipment.

Iraq is considered a stable destination for the export of Iranian nano products in all industrial fields except nanomaterials, energy, and agriculture, he said, adding that Iran has the maximum exports to the neighboring countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Georgia in the field of the civil engineering industry.

He went on to say that India, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are Iran’s three major export destinations in the field of nanomaterials, adding that China and India stand at the first and second ranks in the world in terms of chemicals.

Iran to Inaugurate Strategic Space Center in May

Hassan Salarieh, the head of the Iranian Space Agency, announced that a strategic under-construction space center will be inaugurated in May.

“We have four strategic and important space centers in the country, one of which is under construction in Khorassan Razavi province, Chenaran city, and we hope to inaugurate it by May next year,” said Salerieh.

He added that an important infrastructure that is being added to this station is the Space Object Observatory, noting that this advanced and automatic observatory monitors satellites and space objects.

It will be built and developed within the framework of international cooperation with the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO), Salarieh said.

CEO: IGTC Operates over 40,000 Kilometers of High-Pressure Pipelines

The Iranian Gas Transmission Company is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and operating over 40,000 kilometers of high-pressure pipelines, the IGTC’s CEO said.

The IGTC is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and operating over 40,000 kilometers of high-pressure pipelines, 94 gas pressure boosting facilities, and 347 turbo compressors, Peyman Khazrayee said.

He also added that 252 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas have been transferred through the network by the end of Dey 1403 (January 19, 2025), marking a 4-bcm increase compared to the same period last year.

Khazrayee noted that since the beginning of the current year (March 20, 2024) over 252 bcm of produced gas were transferred through the network for residential, industrial, and power plant use.

He stated that during this year’s cold days, seven gas transfer records were broken compared to previous years, reflecting the round-the-clock efforts of the company’s employees amid declining temperatures and rising natural gas consumption.

Stressing the company’s physical assets, Khazrayee said additionally, the company manages 9,000 kilometers of active fiber optics and 4,000 kilometers of nationwide microwave links within its communication infrastructure.

He referred to the official commissioning of the Shahid Dehshir 8 gas pressure boosting facility, the ICT and IOC building in Gas Transmission Region 2, and the pipeline operation centers in Yazd, Sari, and Ilam during the Ten Days of Fajr (January 31-ebruary 10).

Iranian Company Developing Innovative Casting Methods

Iranian researchers at a knowledge-based company have developed new innovative casting methods to indigenize equipment for different industries.

“The company’s main field of activity is the use of modern casting methods,” Seyed Mehdi Sadeqi, a board member of the knowledge-based ‘Vira’ company, told ANA.

He referred to the advanced casting methods, including the Lawson method, and said, “These modern methods can have better efficiency than traditional methods. The use of these technologies mechanizes the production process, which reduces the need for human labor and increases the quality of products. Also, waste is significantly reduced.”

“One of the great advantages of these modern methods is the mechanization of the process, which directly increases productivity and reduces costs. Also, these methods produce less waste, and for this reason, the final quality of the products is higher,” Sadeqi said.

Iranian Firm Develops AI Assistant App to Increase Productivity, Access Accurate Info

A knowledge-based company in Iran has succeeded in developing an AI assistant application based on ChatGPT, which improves work processes, increases productivity, and provides access to accurate and fast information.

“Our company is active in the field of new technologies and artificial intelligence, and the main product of the knowledge-based company is the ChatGPT-based AI Assistant Application with dedicated prompts that allow users to use advanced AI capabilities to improve work processes, increase productivity, and access accurate and fast information,” Fardin Aqadadashi Dinabad, the managing-director of the knowledge-based company stationed at the incubator center of Islamic Azad University’s Ilakhchi branch, told ANA on the sidelines of Asr-e Omid event in Isfahan city.

“The AI Assistant Application meets various needs, including process automation, intelligent support, data analysis, and providing AI-based solutions in various economic, educational, and service fields,” he added.

Iran-Made Smart Control System Installed in 20 Refineries, Petrochemical Plants

A knowledge-based company in Iran succeeded in indigenizing and exports of the Distributed Control System (DCS) for refineries and petrochemical plants.

“Our product is one of the most reliable DCSs globally which has been installed in over 20 refineries and petrochemical plants in Iran and has been used for more than 10 years,” said Javad Khodatars, the market development manager of the company.

“The DCS is a fully digital system that provides the user with a single architecture with full functionality from a few inputs and outputs to tens of thousands of inputs and outputs to connect people, processes and production. This intelligent integration provides the right infrastructure for advanced applications, resulting in better efficiency and fewer undesirable changes in the process,” he added.

"Our product is mainly used in the Russian oil and gas industries, and we currently supply approximately 40 percent of the neighboring country's needs for this product," Khodatars said.

Iranian Researchers Present New Method for Designing Low-Power, Fast Processors

Iranian researchers at the University of Science and Culture of the Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research succeeded in presenting a new method for designing low-power and fast processors.

In the latest research presented by Reza Faraji, a master's student in electrical engineering at the University of Science and Culture, the ALU unit was designed and simulated with a new structure based on quantum cellular technology (QCA).

This research, which was conducted with the aim of improving the performance of digital circuits, has achieved outstanding results in reducing energy consumption and area, and optimizing computing speed.

In this research, a new ALU with a reversible and multilayer structure was designed. This design has achieved energy efficiency and a significant reduction in the occupied area by using advanced logic gates, including Fredkin. The simulations were performed by using QCADesigner 2.0.3 software, and the results obtained confirm the high efficiency of this unit.

Using the results of this research in the design of a new generation of processors and digital circuits could revolutionize the electronics industry.

Iran’s SPGC Implements Successful Maintenance Operations to Increase Gas Production

Iran’s South Pars Gas Complex (SPGC) has done successful maintenance operations to stabilize gas production for all refineries in Phases 1 and 2 of South Pars.

Gholamabbas Hosseini, the CEO of the SPGC, pointed to the stability of gas production across all refineries in Phases 1 and 2 of South Pars, adding, “Renovation and maintenance operations for various pumps, boilers, and turbo-compressors are being successfully carried out using the expertise and innovative approaches of South Pars specialists.”

Gholamabbas Hosseini noted that significant achievements have been made in maintaining production stability through both short-term and long-term maintenance efforts.

He emphasized that gas production across the South Pars Gas Complex refineries is now stable, and with the support of creative and innovative experts, there are no issues in maintaining units, parts, or strategic equipment.

Iran’s Lab Network Enters New Phase of Service Development with New Policies

The head of Iran’s Laboratory Network announced that by upgrading the network’s status to the strategic technologies laboratory network, new horizons have been considered for providing services to the users.

“Special plans have been put on the agenda to expand the scope of activities and services of the laboratory network,” said Amir Younesian.

“Also, developing standardization and coverage of laboratory services in the agricultural sector to increase productivity, improve food safety, the health of crops and horticultural products, and reduce the consumption of agricultural inputs are other key policies of this network,” he added.

Younesian also noted that facilitating access of manufacturing companies to special services in industrial fields, including industrial design, prototype construction, and rapid manufacturing, by utilizing the capacity of knowledge-based companies, is another strategy of the Iranian laboratory network.

Iran to Use Knowledge-Based Firms to Strengthen Copper Industry

Iran has plans to use the potentials of the innovation ecosystem and knowledge-based companies to meet the needs of the copper industry.

Based on a law to increase the knowledge-based production, the National Copper Table will be established with the aim of pursuing specialized and systematic issues related to the copper industry.

Since Iran has a 6% share of the world's mineral reserves and a 0.1% copper production rate in the world, it is necessary to establish the table in cooperation with the copper industry and the Iranian Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy.

This will also provide the basis for the commercialization of copper industry, and the value chain of copper and other mining industries will develop.

Iranian Firm Produces Slide Scanner with Telepathology Capability

A celular slide scanner for pathologists was produced by an Iranian knowledge-based company which provides a microscopic image magnification of up to 2,000 times for more accurate observation of tissue.

This product has telepathology capabilities and doctors can view and diagnose slides from anywhere in the world where the device is present. It is also possible to consult with other doctors and archive slides. Previously, slides were physically archived.

At present, countries like the US, Germany, and China have made this product, but there was no Iranian model. The celular device was not reverse engineered, but was designed and produced completely indigenously.

This device is used by pathology laboratories and universities, and so far nearly 50 devices have been sold to centers like the University of Iran, the University of Tehran, and some pathology laboratories in Tehran.

Iran to Launch 3 GPU Farms to Develop AI

An Assistant to the Iranian Vice-President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy announced the country’s plan to launch three graphics processing unit (GPU) farms.

“The existence of a GPU farm is one of the important indicators in the area of artificial intelligence technology, and we are launching a fast processing farm or the first GPU data center,” Mojtaba Alizadeh said.

Noting that the first GPU farm will be launched in May at one of the country's universities, he said, "Our goal is to show the world that Iran is a country that is progressing in the field of artificial intelligence."

“We will launch three GPU farms in Tehran, Kish Island, and other provinces by June and one of the most equipped GPU farms is on Kish Island which will be dedicated to the oil industry,” Alizadeh said.

Iranian Firm Uses Nanotechnology to Manufacture High-Quality Towel Radiator

An Iranian nanotechnology company succeeded in production of towel radiators which are resistant to corrosion and detergents and enjoy diverse and attractive colors.

Towel radiators, which are used in wet spaces, including bathrooms and swimming pools, face challenges like corrosion, mineral deposits, and reduced gloss. The use of nano-coatings based on the physical phase deposition (PVD) method has not only solved these problems, but also increased the useful life of the product.

The company had previously successfully implemented nano-coating technology in building valves in cooperation with a company that produces vacuum coating devices. The results of this collaboration include an increase in corrosion resistance from 160 to 350 hours in the salt spray test, the elimination of environmental pollution caused by traditional plating, and the creation of a variety of colors that have now become a model for the development of other products.

Towel radiators also have a stain-resistant and scratch-resistant surface with the same technology, making them easy to clean and resistant to acidic and alkaline detergents. These features are a significant competitive advantage, specially in high-traffic environments, including hotels and sports halls.

Iran among Advanced States with Pluripotent Stem Cell Technology

The deputy head of Royan Research Institute Mostafa Najjar Asl announced that Iran is standing among the leading advanced countries in developing the pluripotent stem cell technology.

“Iran ranks second in the region in this field and in the world alongside the European countries, including France and Germany,” Najjar Asl said.

He underlined that such a high position is the result of 30 years of efforts by the Iranian researchers and accumulated knowledge in this field.

“Two other products in the field of cell therapy and gene therapy, which are considered to be innovative treatments in the world, will enter the country's pharmaceutical market next year,” Najjar Asl said.

Iran to Launch Micro-Class Satellite

Iran announced plans to launch a micro-class satellite into the orbit in the near future.

Iran will launch a home-made micro-class satellite named ‘Navak’ into the space in the next few days, Minister of Information and Communications Technology Sattar Hashemi said.

Navak which weighs 40 kilogram and has been designed by the Iranian Space Research Institute will be launched into the orbit by using an upgraded Simorq rocket.

This launch signals progress toward accessing geostationary orbit (GEO) and bolstering national communication infrastructure.

Iran Joins World Producers of Flame Detector for Oil, Gas Industries

A knowledge-based company in Iran has made the country the fourth largest producer of flame detectors in the UV and IR spectrums in the world, a report said, adding the flame detectors are used in the oil and gas industries to prevent fire.

The device is used in many factories and the oil and gas and petrochemical industry for continuous flame monitoring and is capable of detecting a flame wherever there is a possibility of it, so that as soon as a flame occurs, it detects the flame and gives an alarm.

The flame detector includes two powerful infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) spectra. The Iranian engineers used artificial intelligence and microelectronics technologies in the design and construction of this device.

These two technologies are used to increase speed and accuracy. Artificial intelligence has helped us to raise the flame and identify the flame, and it is able to identify the flame at a horizontal and vertical angle of 60 degrees and a length of 15 meters. The Iran-made flame detector is installed on a base and can rotate 360 ​​degrees vertically and horizontally.

Iran’s Royan Institute Treats 500 Foreign Infertile Couples in One Year

The Deputy Director of Specialized Services at Royan Research Institute announced that 500 infertile couples from 23 world states have been treated in Iran last year (ended on March 19).

“The costs of treatment at Royan Research Institute for foreign patients are much lower than in other countries, and this, along with the high quality of services, has created a strong incentive for patients from all over the world to come to Iran,” said Ahmad Vosouq.

“Last year, nearly 500 infertile couples from 23 different countries in the world came to Iran for treatment, which shows the global trust in our services,” he added.

“We have been able to be known as one of the reputable centers providing international services worldwide. Our success rate in treating infertile couples is comparable to the best medical centers in the world,” Vosouq said.

Iran-Made Nano-Based Engine Oil Lowers Fuel Consumption, Pollutants

A knowledge-based company in Iran produced a special type of nano-based engine oil that by creating a ceramic layer on engine parts reduces fuel consumption and emissions, increases vehicle acceleration, and prevents cold start damage.

“The nanoparticles used in this engine oil, after being added to the base oil, are activated at engine temperature and form a uniform ceramic layer on the metal parts which not only repairs uneven cylinder surfaces but also prevents oil from leaking and makes cold starts safer, even if the engine is turned off for a long time,” said Hojjatollah Riazati, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

The company has revolutionized the automotive lubricants industry by producing SN 10W-40 grade nano-based engine oil. This product, which contains ceramic nanoparticles, minimizes friction between engine parts and reduces engine operating temperature by filling the fine lines and pores of the cylinder.

Tests have shown that this technology reduces fuel consumption, increases vehicle acceleration, and significantly decreases oil consumption and engine vibration.

Iranian Knowledge-Based Firms’ Exports Increased by 121%

Exports of the Iranian knowledge-based companies amounted to $2,505 million last year which shows a 121% growth compared to the previous year.

“The number of knowledge-based companies last year reached 9,733, which shows an 18% increase compared to the previous year. The employment rate of knowledge-based companies also reached 409,000 in the previous year which has experienced a 27% increase compared to the year before,” said Mostafa Arab, the managing director of the knowledge-based Arzeshafarin Etemad Credit Assessment company.

He added that the income of knowledge-based companies last year shows an 87% increase compared to the previous year.

“The share of knowledge-based companies in GDP increased by 40% last year compared to the previous year,” Arab said.

Iranian Company Selected as Top Producer, Exporter of Aquatic Feed

Amir Aboudi, the managing director of 21 Bayza company, announced that his company has been selected as the top producer of aquatic feed in terms of quality and the top exporter of aquatic feed in the country.

“The main competitive advantage of 21 Bayza company is the production of feed that is suitable for the geographical and climatic conditions of different regions. In addition to increasing the growth rate and improving the aquatic animal immune system, this feature also reduces losses and increases economic efficiency,” said Aboudi.

“21 Bayza company is the first aquatic feed producer in Iran which uses extrusion technology. With a production capacity of 175,000 tons per year, our company not only meets the needs of the domestic market, but also exports to the international markets,” he added.

“Based on plans, 21 Bayza company plans to launch a new production line by next year,” Aboudi said.

VP: Iran Ready to Register Afghan Knowledge-Based Firms

Iranian Vice-President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy Hossein Afshin announced that the country is ready to register the Afghan knowledge-based companies.

“The Afghan knowledge-based companies can be registered in Iran, develop, attract capital and push the boundaries of technology,” Afshin said.

“As the Vice-President for Science, my first responsibility is to support Iran’s elites. This is an unquestionable commitment. Our mission is to nurture the Iranian talents, pave the way for their progress and turn Iran into a launching pad for its elites. This is our first responsibility and we will not hesitate for a moment,” he added.

Noting that Afghanistan is not just a neighbor, but also an opportunity to build a common scientific and technological ecosystem, Afshin said that the Iranian and Afghan elites can shape the future of the two countries by cooperation.

Iran to Connect All Remaining Villages to Broadband Network

An advisor to the Iranian Minister of Communications underlined firm determination of the government to eliminate communication deprivation from underprivileged areas and connect all remaining villages to the communication network by the end of the Seventh National Development Plan (2023-2027).

“100% coverage of villages with over 20 households based on the two principles of legal obligation and achieving communication justice is among the priorities of the Ministry of Communications in the 14th government,” said Nik Mohammad Balouch Zehi.

He added that there are a total of 39,645 villages with more than 20 households in the country, noting that nearly 10,000 villages still do not have a high-speed communication network.

“By the end of the Seventh Development Plan, all remaining villages will definitely be connected to the broadband network,” Balouch Zehi said.

Official: Nearly 10,000 Knowledge-Based Firms Active in Iran

Nearly 10,000 knowledge-based firms are active in Iran, a relevant official said, adding the firms export over $2.5 billion annually.

Reza Bakhshi Aani, the deputy for the development of the knowledge-based economy at the Iranian Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy, made the remarks, saying that Iran has nearly 10,000 knowledge-based firms, and their sales performance this year has set a new record, though further growth is expected.

He added that nearly 250 trillion rials (Iranian currency) of these sales came from high-tech products.

Bakhshi Aani also noted Iran’s knowledge-based firms have exported around $2.5 billion worth of products this year, including nearly $500 million in high-tech exports.

Iran’s Royan Institute Produces Biological Wound Dressing for Diabetic Patients

The deputy director for research and technology department of Royan Research Institute announced the production of single-layer and double-layer medical skin for the treatment of wounds of diabetic patients and people with skin burns.

“One of our most important achievements this year has been the production of two types of medical skin, including single-layer skin and double-layer skin,” said Parvaneh Afsharian.

“The first product is a single-layer skin designed to treat third-degree burns and is used in cases where the body does not have any healthy skin for transplantation,” she explained, adding that this product has dimensions larger than a layer of human skin cells.

“The second product, a double-layer skin consisting of keratinocytes and fibroblasts, is designed to treat deep chronic wounds and is known as a completely biological wound dressing,” Afsharian said.

Iran to Hold 28th ELECOMP Expo in June

The 28th International Iran ELECOMP Expo is slated to be held at Tehran International Permanent Fairground on June 18-21, 2025.

The 28th International Iran ELECOMP Exhibition 2025 is one of the most popular international events in Iran’s related industries, and it provides great chances for businesses, manufacturers, suppliers, commercial media, and other activists in related sectors to put their products, services, technologies, and business ideas to show.

ELECOMP stands for Electronic Computer and E-Commerce and is known as the Electronic, Computer and E-Commerce Exhibition of Iran. This international exhibition is one of the largest and most professional exhibitions held in the country.

The purpose of holding the ELECOMP exhibition is to create a platform for providing services and products in the computer and technology industry. Every year, the latest achievements in the field of computers and e-commerce, including various hardware and software, are displayed at the ELECOMP exhibition. In fact, the activists in these fields expose their products to interested participants.

Home-Made High-Speed Internet Equipment to Replace Huawei, Nokia

A knowledge-based company in Iran officially started mass production of the fourth-generation cellular wireless communication radio base station equipment after receiving an operating license.

“At present, nearly 80 people directly involved in research and development work at our knowledge-based company, which is stationed at Yazd University Science and Technology Park, and they are working on fourth-generation (LTE) and fifth-generation (5G) cellular networks,” said Ali Akbar Tadayyon, the managing director of the knowledge-based Farabin company.

“The company's products, which have received performance approvals from the country's mobile operators, can replace products from foreign companies like Huawei and Nokia,” he added.

Official: Environmental Concerns Considered at Iran’s Cheshmeh Khosh Field

The project manager for the Cheshmeh Khosh, Dalpari, and Paydar Sharq oilfields underlined the importance of plans to protect the environment in activities carried out in the Iranian fields.

“In developing this field, we have prioritized environmental conservation as a fundamental principle. The deployment of this unit is an effective measure to prevent water and soil contamination and reduce the environmental impact of industrial activities,” Majid Najjarian said.

He stressed that the Oil Engineering and Development Company, in collaboration with ZN Vostok, has aligned the development and production of these fields with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.

“These actions demonstrate our commitment to social and environmental responsibilities toward society and nature,” Najjarian added.

Iranian Knowledge-Based Company Uses Nanotechnology to Produce Hydrophobic Glass

A knowledge-based company in Iran has produced a hydrophobic solution by using nanotechnology which can effectively make glass surfaces like car glass, tiles, and ceramics hydrophobic.

In addition to improving visibility in rainy and snowy conditions, the product reduces the need for frequent window washing and significantly reduces water consumption.

The product is suitable for car windows, homes, hospitals, buildings, hotels, and stores. Reducing the frequency of window washing, improving visibility in adverse weather conditions, and lasting up to two years if the surface is not scratched are the advantages of this product.

The company is also a pioneer in production of calcium carbonate nanoparticles. Iran is the eighth largest producer of these nanoparticles in the world.

University of Tehran to Hold Int’l Day Festival

The 14th International Day Festival of the University of Tehran will be held along with the Student Exhibition of Culture of Nations.

The 14th International Day Festival of the University of Tehran will be held on February 25-26 at 2:00- 5:00 PM in the Allameh Amini Hall of the Central Library and Documentation Center of the University.

A cultural exhibition with the participation of international students will also be held on February 26- 29 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM in the outdoor area of ​​the Central Library and Documentation Center of the University of Tehran. In this exhibition, international students studying at the University of Tehran will display their country's handicrafts and other cultural and artistic products.

Students from Iraq, Afghanistan, Japan, South Korea, China, Russia, Pakistan, Yemen, India, Nigeria, Palestine, Senegal, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey will be present in the exhibition.

Iran to Develop Technology of Domestically-Produced Hybrid Seeds

The most important subjects related to the executive short and long-term plans for the hybrid seed production and development were discussed in a symposium for the commercialization and branding of home-grown hybrid seeds.

Given the goals of the Seventh Development Plan (2023-2027) to produce 50 percent of vegetable and summer hybrid seeds domestically, it was deemed by the officials as necessary to develop a technical and executive plan and roadmap for hybrid seed production, with integrated management of the public and private sectors and utilizing existing scientific capabilities and infrastructure capacities.

Therefore, the Office of the National Program for the Development of Greenhouse and Fisheries Towns of the Iranian Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy, in line with its missions and with the aim of promoting and completing the value chain of hybrid seed production and development, by benefiting from the capacities and capabilities of knowledge-based and technology-based companies and the cooperation of the responsible organizations, has put the development of this executive plan on its agenda to facilitate the path to achieve the goals of the Seventh Progress Program in the field of seeds with targeted support for its implementation.

Therefore, in the second meeting of the hybrid seed production and development symposium, the draft executive plan was presented by the national program and the proposed short-term, medium-term and long-term plans for the production, commercialization and branding of domestic hybrid seeds were reviewed with the presence of knowledge-based and technology-based companies.

Iranian Company Produces Single-Component Polyurethane Adhesive

A knowledge-based company in Iran has succeeded in indigenizing a single-component polyurethane adhesive that dries completely in the presence of moisture and creates a strong, crystalline structure to bond different surfaces.

“We are active in three fields: polyurethane adhesives and resins used in the automotive industry, additives and catalysts for the oil, petrochemical, and drilling industries, and research and development in the field of renewable energies,” said Qassem Kasaiyan, the managing director of the company.

“The result of these activities over the past three years has been the indigenization of multiple grades of adhesives, foam raw materials, drilling cement additives, as well as the implementation of projects to develop technical knowledge in the field of catalysts and polymer composites,” he added.

“HSP-AD-110P single-component polyurethane adhesive is one of our company's knowledge-based products that completely dries in the presence of moisture and creates a strong, crystalline structure, allowing it to bond different surfaces,” Kasaiyan said.

“This adhesive is used in various industries, including shipbuilding and boatbuilding, wood, construction, sandwich panel and mattress manufacturing, and the adhesive works without solvents,” he added.

Noting that the nominal production capacity of this product is 900 tons per year, Kasaiyan said, “The company's actual capacity is greater than the nominal capacity and we can produce up to 8 tons of adhesive per day.”

Iranian Clinics Using Water Vapor to Treat Prostatic Hyperplasia

Iranian hospitals and clinical centers are using a new method based on the water vapor to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia.

“Using water vapor is a new technique that is used in the world and Iran to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia,” Mohammad Hadi Radfar, a urologist and a fellow in endourology and laparoscopy and a faculty member of Shahid Beheshti University, told ANA.

“This method can be called a new and special technology that is based on water vapor. Of course, it cannot be said that with the introduction of this method, older treatment methods are no longer applicable,” he added.

Iranian Firm Produces MDF from Eucalyptus, Exports to 18 Countries

An Iranian knowledge-based company started making medium-density fiberboard (MDF) from eucalyptus tree, exporting the product to 18 European, Asian and African countries.

“Planting eucalyptus trees in the Khuzestan region (Southwestern Iran), in addition to playing an effective role in reducing dust has this advantage that it is a tree that does not hibernate and since its wood is hard, it is considered as a proper option for use in MDF,” said Hamid Hamdani, the managing-director of the knowledge-based company.

“In addition to its environmental benefits, this tree is not only used in the MDF industry, but also its leaves and branches are used in pharmaceutical and health industries,” he added.

“At present, our products are exported to 18 European, African and Asian countries,” Hamdani said.

Iranian Company Exports 200,000 Dollars Worth of Supplements to Russia

 An Iranian knowledge-based company succeeded in the exports of a shipment of pharmaceutical supplements to Russia.

“The second export shipment of our knowledge-based company, including the supplement syrup family, was exported to Russia in cooperation with the Medical Equipment Research and Technology Fund of Iran,” said Sara Sepehr, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.

“The export shipment of Iranian syrups from this knowledge-based company was worth $200,000,” she added.

“These syrups are a family of supplement syrups for children and adults, and our supplement syrups are at present being exported to the Eurasian countries. In addition to their specialized use, our syrups also help provide the body with the vitamins and minerals needed daily,” Sepehr said.

VP: AI Enters Operational Phase in Iran

Iranian Vice-President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy Hossein Afshin said that the Artificial Intelligence (AI) has passed the theoretical stage and now is in the operational phase.

“The AI has been developed in Iran since 2010. This technology was first introduced in self-driving cars, medical guidance systems and traffic management, and today, having passed the theoretical stage, it has entered industrial and operational applications,” Afshin said.

Noting that artificial intelligence is no longer a purely academic subject, he said, “There was a time when only theoretical discussions were raised about artificial intelligence, but today the country is facing a new generation of operational projects in the fields of oil, health, smart cities and industry.”

“This change of direction is the result of targeted investment and the serious entry of creative engineers into this field,” Afshin said.

Official: Iran Indigenizes 54 Strategic Products

The deputy of the Iranian Vice- Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy for the development of new technology-based firms (NTBFs) said that 54 strategic products have been indigenized in the country in the oil, electricity and IT sectors.

Touraj Amrayee underlined the activities of over 10,000 knowledge-based companies in the country, saying that the income of these companies constitutes 28 percent of the gross national product.

He also said that the Iranian oil ministry has taken a leading role in implementing the law to boost tech-based production.

Amrayee added that among the first-time production projects, the largest initiative, valued at $26 million, is associated with the Iranian Offshore Oil Company, noting that these efforts show the oil ministry’s leadership in indigenizing the strategic technologies.

He stated that the oil ministry has allocated over $321 million out of a total $455 million in waived formalities contracts, adding that 56 contracts worth of $40 million have been completed by the ministry.

Official: 120 Knowledge-Based Firms Active in Iran’s Mining Sector

An official with Iran’s Mining and Mineral Industries Innovation Center announced that nearly 120 knowledge-based companies are active in the country’s mining sector.

“At present, it is assessed that 120 knowledge-based companies in areas related to mining and mineral industries are stationed at the country's science and technology parks,” said Majid Vafayee Fard, the head of the innovation department of Iran’s Mining and Mineral Industries Innovation Center.

He added that by establishing the Mining and Mineral Industries Science and Technology Park as the country's sixth institutional park, a suitable platform will be provided for increasing the number of knowledge-based companies in this field.

"One of the requirements for the development of capable knowledge-based and technological companies in the field of mining and mineral industries is the establishment of a specialized science and technology park in this field. With the efforts of the IMINO Innovation and Technology Center, the support of the Presidential Vice-President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy and the Iranian Mines and Mineral Industries Development and Renovation Organization (IMIDRO), knowledge-based companies with technological products and services related to mining industries and technologies in this field are supported," Vafayee said.

Iran Voices Readiness to Participate in Expo 2027 in Belgrade

Iranian Minister of Information and Communication Technology Sattar Hashemi submitted a message from Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian to his Serbian counterpart Aleksandar Vučić, stressing Tehran’s readiness to participate in Expo 2027 in Belgrade.

The message from Pezeshkian stressed Iran's readiness to participate in Expo 2027 Belgrade, reinforcing Tehran's support for Serbia's candidacy to host the event.

He also noted that Serbia's hosting of the Expo would enhance regional solidarity and contribute to the development of the Western Balkans.

As both nations look to solidify their partnership, the discussions signify a promising future for cooperation in the ICT sector, with potential benefits for both countries' technological landscapes, he added.

During the meeting with Vučić, Hashemi also announced Tehran's readiness to elevate cooperation with Serbia to a strategic level.

The discussions focused on fostering cooperation in various technological fields, specially in communications, information technology, and artificial intelligence.

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