Milano-Bicocca sees benefits of nanotech

Milano-Bicocca University has launched Graftonica, a spin-out generated to commercialise nanotech additives in plastics and rubber sectors.

The company, which the university retains a 5% stake in and will offer incubation services to, is looking to develop and produce the nanotech additives. One of the uses of the technology is the restoration of artwork. Nanoparticles do not modify the look or colours used in a work of art, but prevents damaging rays which can cause deterioration. Other uses include food packaging, which could increase package integrity and reduce waste.

The team of researchers behind the technology said in a release: “Graftonica develops chemical processes that create a layer of the target polymer on particles, so that the functional properties of nanoparticles combine with the structural properties of plastic and each individual particle will be inserted in a “capsule” of the same material that will prevent it from aggregate with other particles. These additives will allow polymers to acquire properties that are typical of other classes of materials, thus becoming competitive also in applications that are currently reserved to ceramics or metals, with high environmental sustainability.”