Vision and Mission

To fight bacteria NB GmbH has developed a nano ceramic, mimicking nature in defeating germs by changing the redox pathways in the membrane of bacteria cells. This addresses the problem of progressively resistant bacteria strains in particular. Implementation of the material in multiple applications and extension of the product-portfolio for use in everyday products and high-tech is the main focus.

Introduction

Products with antibacterial properties are commonplace today, and include soaps, dishwashing liquids, toothbrushes, chopping boards, window cleaners and many more. It has been estimated that more than 700 antimicrobial-infused products are now available (Dickey, Antimicrobial Products: Who Needs Them?) Such products are a retail success, as news about E. Coli and other bacterial breakouts cause consumers to look for products that are safer, with antibacterial properties.

Nanosilver is currently used as an antibacterial material, but this material is in the process of being banned from the market. This is due to toxic side effects, like heavy metal poisoning of humans and animals. Alternatives are often even more harmful compared to their benefits in antibacterial properties. We have developed an inorganic antibacterial material which is non toxic to humans and shows excellent antibacterial properties.

The material is a ceramic with unmatched versatility of structural features. It can be used in a broad range of potential applications. Due to its redox behaviour, it is used as catalysts for the oxidation of organic substrates and for the oxidative degradation of pollutants. The development of antimicrobial systems containing the material, suitable for water treatment, wound dressing and additive in medical and hygiene applications. The material has been successfully tested as an efficient antimicrobial agent against Staphylococcus aureus (well-known from skin infections) and Escherichia coli (well-known from intestines infections).