On Wednesday, June 12, 2025, the Center for the Development of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CEDENNA) made its presence felt at the third edition of Ciencia Sin Ficción, held at the SurActivo Events Center in Concepción, Chile. On this occasion, our associate researcher and Director of the Laboratory of Molecular Magnetism and Molecular Materials (LM4) at the Faculty of Engineering, Science and Technology of Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins (UBO), Dr. Walter Cañón Mancisidor, stood out with his talk: “Rare Earth Elements: The Materials That Are Changing Your World,” presented before an audience of thousands.
Dr. Cañón emphasized the importance of rare earth elements—such as the lanthanides—in today’s essential technologies: smartphones, high-definition displays, electric vehicles, and sustainable energy solutions. He also highlighted how Chile, with its ionic clay deposits in the south and the potential to recover value from mining tailings, is becoming a key regional player in this strategic resource.
With a strong and inspiring message, he affirmed that “science must leave the lab and connect with society, especially with young people,” an approach we strongly promote at CEDENNA. Knowledge must circulate in public spaces, inspire, and transform. His engaging style made complex scientific concepts accessible and relevant to a broad and diverse audience.
In addition to his talk, Dr. Cañón presented recent advances in the study of lanthanide complexes developed at UBO, highlighting their unique electronic properties and potential for innovative technological applications. At CEDENNA, we greatly value how this type of research contributes to building a model of applied science that is both excellent and socially meaningful.
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