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Antiseptic nanoparticles in an "intelligent" package

A research team from the JU Faculty of Chemistry have discovered a substance that is highly effective against microorganisms and consists of porous calcium carbonate microparticles (a matrix) containing silver nanoparticles. Using a matrix ensures a long-term and controlled release of bioactive nanoparticles and silver ions. In an interview, Dr hab Szczepan Zapotoczny, prof. UJ, the project's supervisor, talked about this method.

Professor Zapotoczny along with his team have been working on silver nanoparticles for the last several years. At one moment, a company interested in producing antiseptic and bacteriostatic substances contacted them, which proved to be a catalyst for further research. The team approached the subject creatively and chose silver nanoparticles, as they are known to have antiseptic properties.

From the very beginning, the environmental safety of the product was considered one of the most important aspects of the research. The scientists do not fully understand what negative consequences may nanoparticles have in regard to the environment and this issue is, sadly, often neglected. This is why the research of Professor Zapatoczny's team is such an innovation. The Nanoparticles in general may have a detrimental effect on all life, particularly the "higher organisms", such as people, other mammals etc., but also, for instance, on aquatic organisms; therefore, it is advised not to release them in an excessive amount through  the use of deodorants, paint and other synthetic materials. This has not yet been fully regulated in Europe.

In the case of Professor Zapotoczny team's substance, the nanoparticles (i.e. particles the size of one millionth of a millimetre) are encapsulated in microparticles, which are neutral to man and environment. They are "imprisoned" and cannot be released into the environment in large amounts – the process is slow and controlled.

The research is funded by the Jagiellonian University and the Doctus programme, however, Professor Zapotoczny hopes to receive additional funding because of its commercial aspect. The fact that this method does not require any fundamental changes in production lines is an additional incentive for potential clients. Professor Zapotoczny's undertaking may also have another positive outcome: it may further research in other areas, such as medicine, which was not viable until now because of the negative effects of nanoparticle emission.

With the increased commercialisation of products containing nanoparticles, it is possible that the 21st century will be known as the century of nanotechnology. As long as nanoparticles can be used safely, there are many ways of utilising them for various purposes.

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The research team consists of: Dr hab. Szczepan Zapotoczny, prof. UJ, Prof. dr hab. Maria Nowakowska, Dr Maria Bulwan, Ms Gabriela Kania and Mr Maciej Długosz.

Published Date: 06.02.2014
Published by: Łukasz Wspaniały
Uniwersytet Jagielloński