Nano technologies -
Glycerin Based Synthesis of Nanoparticles and Nanowires
Introduction
Currently, there is a rising problem
of antibiotic resistance due to certain bacteria exhibiting
immunity. Also, there are no completely efficient treatments
or vaccines to prevent or treat viral diseases such
as HIV, hepatitis C, and human papillomavirus.
Invention Description
This technology employs silver nanoparticles
and nanowires as biocides to replace some current antibiotics.
Glycerin is used to produce these nanoparticles, and
provides the medium into which the silver can dissolve.
Benefits
Glycerin is versatile
The silver used has biocidal properties
Glycerin is biocompatible with
the human body
Glycerin is a GRAS (FDA term meaning
"generally regarded as safe") compound
Inexpensive operating conditions
Nanoparticles are stable and display
no risk
Features
The glycerin used acts as a solvent
and a reducing agent.
Silver particles are completely
and evenly dispersed in glycerin.
Market Potential/Applications
This technology can be applied to
nanoparticles and nanowires comprised of gold, copper,
iron, palladium, platinum, alloys composed of these
metals, and various metal oxides. Further, this technology
can be used in physical, biological, biomedical, and
pharmaceutical applications. Finally, a wide range of
applications exist due to the glycerin used in this
technology. These include, but are not limited to, antiseptics,
paints, plastics, suspensions, gels, and soaps.
IP Status
One U.S. Patent Application filed
One PCT Application filed
UT Researcher
Miguel Jose Yacaman, Ph. D., Department
of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at
Austin
