Nanotechnology Now - Press Release: NovaCentrix Joins Brooks City-Base to Develop Nanotech-Based Systems for Chemical and Biological Agent Detection, Identification, and Neutralization

Home > Press > NovaCentrix Joins Brooks City-Base to Develop Nanotech-Based Systems for Chemical and Biological Agent Detection, Identification, and Neutralization

Abstract:
NovaCentrix, a leading nanotechnology products company with focus on printable electronics, energetics and life sciences, announced today their second coalition with Brooks City-Base in San Antonio. The two organizations seek develop nanotechnology-based systems for chemical and biological agent detection, identification, and neutralization.

NovaCentrix Joins Brooks City-Base to Develop Nanotech-Based Systems for Chemical and Biological Agent Detection, Identification, and Neutralization

AUSTIN, TX | Posted on January 22nd, 2007

This collaboration is an extension of FY'04 funding in which NovaCentrix and Brooks City-Base teams achieved significant success with chemical/biological detection and decontamination. Through the previous funding and sponsorship by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), NovaCentrix and Brooks City Base jointly managed a program chartered to develop a novel set of technologies that promise to improve significantly our Nation's ability to respond to the threat of bio-terrorist agents, including anthrax and other pathogens.

Each of the required components were demonstrated for critical elements: pathogen neutralization; collection through use of paramagnetic nanoparticles; and, anthrax-specific aptamers successfully linked to nano-magnetic particles and to a fluorescent marker.

During the current phase, funded by FY'06 Congressional appropriations at $1.3 million and sponsored by the Air Force Research Laboratory, the two teams will further develop the key component technologies and move them closer to deployment. Efforts will include demonstration of rapid agent point detection and identification on surfaces, development of nanoparticle tagging systems for bio-threat agent collection and destruction, and quantification of magnetic recovery of nanoparticle/DCE/neutralized agent complexes for recovery. Moving toward a complete systems solution for detection, identification and neutralization of wide ranges of bio-agents is a critical program goal.

In support of this project, Congressman Lamar Smith explained, "This funding will allow NovaCentrix and Brooks City-Base to provide the U.S. Military with the best bio-defense equipment possible. In supporting major advances in military and bio-technology, the research being performed in Texas today will support military efforts across the globe for years to come."

Of the program, Steve Leach, CEO of NovaCentrix commented, "Detection, identification and neutralization of chemical and biological threats are important and must be performed on the spot in any location, whether on a helicopter or in a surgical room. It is critical to have a family of nanoparticle-based neutralizers and application systems that will detect and destroy biological agents on personnel, inside aircraft or throughout buildings without disrupting sensitive components or compromising operational effectiveness."

In 2002, Brooks City-Base, formerly Brooks Air Force Base, was transferred to the City of San Antonio. The city manages the base with the Air Force as its primary tenant and has created a Technology and Business Center. Brooks City-Base is well-renowned as a model of innovation for future partnerships between military bases and their communities. The collaborative effort between the researchers at Brooks City-Base and NovaCentrix is a realization of this vision.

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About NovaCentrix
NovaCentrix, a nanotechnology products company, creates and commercializes unique solutions with focus on three business segments: printable electronics, life sciences and energetics. NovaCentrix’s customers fall into three distinct categories: companies and organizations that utilize conductive inks and curing systems, energetic formulations, anti-viral and anti-bacterial applications. Printable electronics customers include flexible displays, RFID tags, flexible lighting, printable circuits, and solar film application companies. Their life sciences products provide solutions for medical and performance textiles, water filtration companies, general coatings applications, as well as those who require broad antimicrobial / antiviral additives. NovaCentrix’s energetic products address the needs of defense agencies and contractors and commercial explosive makers.

Leveraging their comprehensive expertise in producing and processing the purest and most discrete nanoparticles in the world, NovaCentrix provides integrated solutions that address the entire production process from powder to formulation to products and processing equipment.

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Contacts:
BlabberMouth PR for NovaCentrix
Patti D. Hill, 512-218-0401

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