The National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), is advancing the application of science, technology and innovation to improve local water resource management. Under the 2026 Science, Technology and Innovation for Water Resource Management Capacity Building Project, NANOTEC has delivered four technology prototypes to communities in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, addressing local water quality challenges through improvements to community water supply systems, hard water treatment and raw water storage capacity.
The initiative aims to improve access to clean water for household consumption and daily use while strengthening long-term water security in local communities.
Dr. Uracha Ruktanonchai, Executive Director of NANOTEC, said that the center conducts research and develops nanotechnology solutions to address national needs and improve people’s quality of life. One of its areas of expertise is the development of technologies for water quality monitoring and treatment, particularly for water used in daily life and household consumption.
To expand the practical application of its research, NANOTEC and NSTDA have established the A-QUALITY initiative (Clean Water Innovation for Quality of Life). The initiative focuses on developing water treatment systems and water quality monitoring technologies suited to real-world applications, supporting more systematic and effective water resource management.
From fiscal years 2023 to 2025, NANOTEC worked with local partner organizations to implement a science-, technology- and innovation-based project on water quality monitoring and improvement for community water supplies. The initiative helped more than 26,000 households gain access to clean water. Building on these results, the program has continued into fiscal year 2026, with Prachuap Khiri Khan designated as one of its key target areas.
Prachuap Khiri Khan has diverse geographical characteristics, ranging from coastal areas and agricultural communities to urban settlements. Each faces different water quality challenges, including the risk of seawater intrusion, water hardness associated with groundwater sources, and potential impacts from agricultural activities and tourism. To address these issues, NANOTEC has worked with local administrative organizations and relevant agencies to develop four technology prototypes tailored to the needs of each community:
1. Improved Sedimentation System for Community Water Supply Production
Installed at the Village Water Supply System in Moo 11, Bo Nok Subdistrict, Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan District, this prototype is designed to improve the efficiency of the sedimentation process and enhance the community’s water supply production system.
2. Nanotechnology-Based Hard Water Treatment System with Water Quality Monitoring and Drinking Water Facilities
Installed at Ban Nong Pulok School, Moo 9, Bo Nok Subdistrict, this system addresses water hardness through nanotechnology-based treatment, with water quality monitoring and drinking water facilities to support the school’s access to suitable drinking water.
3. 20,000-Litre Modular SMC Water Tank for Raw Water Storage
Installed at Nurussalam Mosque Community (Dom Thong), Moo 7, Ao Noi Subdistrict, this detachable and modular tank provides additional raw water storage capacity, helping the community maintain a reserve water supply.
4. 20,000-Litre Modular SMC Water Tank for Raw Water Storage
Installed in Moo 7, Huai Sai Subdistrict, this modular tank increases local raw water storage capacity and supports water resource management in the area.
The project involves close collaboration between NANOTEC and local agencies throughout the process, from identifying water quality challenges and developing suitable technology prototypes to implementing solutions based on each community’s specific conditions. Long-term water resource management is also an important part of the initiative. NANOTEC plans to propose the project for inclusion in the Thai Water Plan system, managed by the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), for fiscal year 2028 to support future implementation and expansion to other areas.
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NANOTEC, NSTDA, remains committed to applying scientific knowledge, research and technological innovation to address real-world challenges. Through collaboration with local partners and the development of practical solutions, NANOTEC aims to improve community water quality, expand access to clean water and strengthen sustainable water security for people across Thailand.
