JWENT Innovates with AI and Nanotechnology to Tackle Water and Environmental Challenges
In the realm of water and environmental nanotechnology, the 2026 special issue of the International Journal of Water and Environmental Nanotechnology (JWENT) promises to unveil groundbreaking insights. This edition is dedicated to exploring innovative and sustainable solutions that leverage the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and nanotechnology to tackle pressing challenges in our environment.
This special issue will feature a diverse range of international articles and case studies that delve into the transformative role of AI in enhancing innovation and sustainability within the field of water and environmental nanotechnology. According to IRNA, the journal will cover a variety of crucial topics, including:
- AI in Nanotechnology Design: Utilizing AI to design and optimize nanotechnology for water purification and wastewater treatment.
- Environmental Restoration: Exploring AI applications in modeling, simulating, and predicting pollutant removal and treatment efficiency.
- Smart Sensors and IoT: Developing nano-based smart sensors for real-time monitoring of water and environmental quality using the Internet of Things (IoT).
- Risk Assessment: Conducting AI-based risk assessments of nanomaterials.
- Sustainable Applications: Integrating AI, nanotechnology, and biotechnology systems for sustainable water and environmental solutions.
Iran’s Advancements in Nanotechnology
Over the past year, Iran has made remarkable strides in the field of nanotechnology, achieving over a 100% increase in the export of nanotech products. This growth is evidenced by the indexing of 10,860 articles in the Web of Science (WoS), positioning Iran as the sixth-largest publisher of nanotechnology articles globally.
The journey of Iran’s nanotechnology sector began in 2001, leading to the establishment of a dedicated headquarters two years later. A significant milestone was reached in 2005 with the introduction of the first national strategic plan, aimed at elevating Iran to a position among the top 15 countries in nanotechnology. This strategic document focused on enhancing the nation’s capability to generate wealth and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the organization later rebranded itself to the ‘nano and micro technology headquarters’ to better align with its mission and responsibilities in these fields. In the last year, from August 22, 2024, to August 23, 2025, numerous initiatives were undertaken to:
- Enhance existing industries in nanotechnology.
- Expand and manage sustainable exports and nano-product markets at national, regional, and global levels.
- Promote Iranian-made products in regional markets.
- Foster innovation stemming from novel technologies with significant economic and social impacts.
- Maintain the country’s scientific reputation and improve its standing in nanoscience.
Categories of Nanotechnology Products
The diverse range of Iran’s nanotechnology products spans across 13 main categories, including:
- Civil engineering and construction
- Optics, electronics, and photonics
- Petroleum and petrochemicals
- Pharmaceuticals, health, and well-being
- Home appliances
- Power and energy
- Raw materials
- Chemicals
- Textiles and clothing
- Equipment
- Automotive industry and transportation
- Industrial machinery
- Agriculture, animal husbandry, and water
As per data released by the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology, an impressive 89.6 percent of Iranian nanotechnology products are exported to Asian countries. The exports extend to Europe, Africa, America, and Australia, accounting for 6.8 percent, 2.5 percent, and 1 percent, respectively.
The data, which pertains to the Iranian calendar year 1402 (March 2023-March 2024), highlights that neighboring countries are the primary recipients of Iran’s nanotechnology products. The leading importers include:
- Iraq: 23.1 percent
- Turkey: 6.9 percent
- Afghanistan: 6.5 percent
Following these countries, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, China, and India also rank among the key importers of Iranian nanotechnology products.
In summary, the intersection of AI and nanotechnology holds immense potential for addressing environmental challenges, as highlighted by the upcoming special issue of JWENT. Iran’s advancements in this field demonstrate a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the enhancement of quality of life through technology.
