Back when BSB Nanotechnology JSC first came to be, we geared ourselves to focus on the betterment of the world whilst the future remained the cornerstone of our mission. Our mission has, and will continue to be, providing solutions for the needs of the present and to foresee the needs of the future. This has always been ingrained into our DNA and we are happy that this mindset has yielded integral industry advancements.
Today we are glad to announce our very own industry’s first antimicrobial nanocomposite that has been tested successfully in the virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant. Following ISO 21702, treated material incorporated with our additive displays excellent virucidal effects against one of the main concerns globally which is the spread of Covid-19. As we know, the spread of any SARS-CoV-2 variant is through surfaces or objects also known as fomites. By imparting antimicrobial properties to these fomites, we can eliminate the growth of microbes and prevent the spread of these harmful infections. This can be achieved with our nanocomposite product AC.PC.00.0198, copper nanoparticles infused silica. AC.PC.00.0198 inactivates up to 99.9% SARS-CoV-2 omicron virus after 24 hours of contact.
What are Antimicrobial (AM) nanocomposites?
AM nanocomposites are a polymeric, organic or inorganic matrix in which metal nanoparticles (NPs) which are introduced to provide multiple functions such as mechanical performance and in our case antimicrobial activity. Metal NPs such as Silver, Copper and Zinc are widely known to have non-specific cytotoxicity towards microbes such as bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Our patent pending AM nanocomposite decorates copper NPs, produced through a unique encapsulation technology and anchor mechanisms, onto silica particles to produce a similar effect for AM applications. Stable copper NPs are prepared by encapsulating metal ions by reduction and polymeric stabilization. These active NPs are then chemically anchored onto the silica surface and inside the pores. Copper ions carry out their functions using several mechanisms. It works by disrupting the cell walls by osmotic pressure within the cells; weakening and rupturing the cell wall or viral coat which causes leakage of essential nutrients such as potassium and glutamate. RNA and DNA takes significant damage due to its mechanism resulting in cellular death. Copper’s ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes damage to internal systems of a microbe and it also alters the structure of proteins and enzymes within microbes preventing basic functionality. Furthermore, encapsulated copper Nanoparticles do not leach into aqueous, solvent borne or hydroalcoholic systems and provide long term protection in a non-toxic manner compared to conventional copper based toxic additives.
Potential applications of our additive are wide and aplenty, please refer to our Antimicrobial Silica Application Guide for further details on applications. TDS, MSDS, Test report issued under ISO 21702 indicating virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2 and also other reports indicating antiviral and antibacterial activity against gram-positive S. Aureus and gram-negative, E. Coli and several other microorganisms can be shared upon request.
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