Was Tipu's sword made using nanotech?

Indians had the know-how for nanotech, one of the latest branches in science, from 18th century only, says Nobel Laureate Robert F Curl.

Indians had the know-how for nanotechnology, one of the latest branches in science, from 18th century only, a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry said on Monday.

Robert F Curl, the Nobel Laureate, said right from the 18th Century, Indians were using nanotechnology, and the sword of Tipu Sultan is one example.

However, he refused to comment as to whether they were using it knowingly or unknowingly.

Similarly, there are examples of the use of nanotechnology in preparing glass in Rome, he said speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a lecture.

He also said that there are several examples of people using a technology, by trial and error method, long before it assumed a form of complete branch of study.

Curl was in Hyderabad to deliver a special lecture on 'The Strange Chemistry of Elemental Carbon: An opportunity for nano materials', at IICT.

The noted scientist said people at that time may not have the required technical knowledge but the exceptional stuff they were preparing is an example of nanoscience.

Krishna Dronamraju, President, Foundation for genetic research Houston, JS Yadav, Director Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad, were also present on the occasion.