A novel antimicrobial material based on activated gold particles has been developed by a Slovenian research institute. Gold nanoparticles, which are naturally inert for the live organism and ineffective against bacteria, are combined with ceramics and carefully selected organic biomolecules to transform into a composite with very high antibacterial activity. This material has been activated for antibacterial activity in such a manner that twice as stronger efficacy in comparison to the silver has been achieved. At the same time, it possesses very high in vitro biocompatibility which is a significant improvement in comparison with previously used materials. The novel material has been tested and proven efficacy on textile.
Objectives of the project:
- Testing the toxicity and efficacy (antibacterial, antiviral) of the composite nanogold material and preparation of the documentation according to the Biocidal Product Regulation (EU 528/2012)
- Development and optimization the application technology for textile application and for high-traffic objects
- Scaling up the nanogold composite production process
The Slovenian research institute has numerous experience in developing novel antibacterial materials and their testing. The consortium further comprises partners in the field of textile and high traffic objects. The consortium targets the call HORIZON-CL4-2021-RESILIENCE-01-20: Antimicrobial, Antiviral, and Antifungal Nanocoatings (RIA). Starting TRL is 3, ending TRL is 6. Funding rate is 100%.
The consortium is looking for two types of partners for research cooperation agreements:
- Producer of antibacterial active component materials: This partner should jointly develop scale up the production of the composite based on gold and start its production on industrial scale.
- Producer of protective textile (e.g. protective clothing in food processing plants, laboratory coats, face masks, surgical gowns etc.): This partner should jointly develop the technology on how to apply the composite based on gold on its textile products.
Deadline for expression of interest: 30 July 2021.
Call deadline: 23 September 2021.
Duration of the project: 36-48 months.
Advantages & innovations
The safety of already widely used silver nanoparticles for antimicrobial purpouse has been questioned by European Union.
The functionalized ceramic/metallic composite based on gold is a novel material, able to overcome the toxicity limitations of the silver. It is also at least twice as effective against bacteria compared to the same composites with a silver component. The listed characteristics make the presented material a very good candidate for the replacement of silver in all products on the market, especially those used for health care and cosmetics.
Stage of development
Available for demonstration
Partner sought
1. Producer of antibacterial active component materials: This partner should jointly develop scale up the production of the composite based on gold and start its production on industrial scale.
2. Producer of protective textile (e.g. protective clothing in food processing plants, laboratory coats, face masks, surgical gowns etc.): This partner should jointly develop the technology on how to apply the composite based on gold on its textile products.