Nanotechnology in sustainable value addition to Sri Lankan minerals

Sri Lanka is an Island with high quality natural resources such as precious minerals, endemic flora, and fauna, abundantly available throughout its land and sea. However, the country is among those with the poorest national economies in the world. The economy of the country is progressively declining due to the lack of a focused programme which would direct the country towards an improved economy. We, as academics and researchers, have devoted our time and energy towards developing value-added products from local minerals. This review describes some important natural minerals of Sri Lanka and our research activities on adding value to these natural treasures. The review begins with discussing natural resources of Sri Lanka focusing on industrial minerals. It then reveals the importance of adding value to these natural resources. Quoting our own research publications, the review describes the methodologies and benefits of adding value to Sri Lankan minerals. The review emphasizes the importance of preventing the export of valuable minerals in their raw forms by analysing market research on value added minerals.