Deputy director of the National Nanotechnology Centre Noppawan Tanpipat, who supervised the project, said the waterproof bags match the standard of the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colourists.

This can give users confidence that the bags are water resistant.

''Due to the reason that it is not a permanent nano-film for long-term use, some parts of the nano-film will be peeled off, which might reduce its efficiency. But don't worry, it takes over an year to do so,'' said Ms Noppawan.

The introduction of the bags is among activities that will continue under the ''Green University'' campaign for the next few years.

University vice-rector Prinya Thaewanarumitkul said the university wanted to achieve its goal through the introduction of the new bags.

''We are the first university to do it, starting at our book centres at both the Tha Prachan and Rangsit campuses. Next, we will expand the project to other sections, including convenient shops in the university. We really hope to be a 100% green campus soon,'' he said.

He said Thammasat's booth at the National Book Fair at the Queen Sirikit Convention Centre, which starts today, will no longer provide plastic bags to customers.

Besides the waterproof bags, the university plans to use degradable food boxes made from cassava and introduce a motorcycle ban for students studying at its Rangsit campus.

Ms Noppawan said the arts of nano technology can be effectively adapted into the textile industry with

APINYA WIPATAYOTIN