There is a very active network of university researchers studying the advanced scientific properties of gold, supported by the gold mining industry. The last international gathering of these researchers attracted over 350 delegates from over 40 countries. See www.gold2009.org and http://www.goldbulletin.org/assets/file/goldbulletin/downloads/Gold_2009_3_42.pdf. Preparations for the 2012 event is underway. Scientists are looking at how gold can be used effectively for a diverse range of new applications including advanced electronics, fuel cells, cancer treatments, and chemical catalysts. In the last 10 years over 39,000 patent applications were published relating to the technical use of gold in practical applications, so new uses for gold will soon emerge based on these patented technologies

Scientists are looking at how gold can be used effectively for a diverse range of new applications including advanced electronics, fuel cells, medical treatments, and chemical catalysts. Applications for gold catalysts are now being developed in a number of new areas including 'green' chemical manufacturing processes, air cleaning (eg removal of smells and poisonous carbon monoxide from indoor environments) and for controlling mercury emissions from coal-fired power stations.