Independent Testing Validates SmartSilver Antimicrobial Performance
Third-Party Laboratory Results Confirm Superior Efficacy and Durability
Comprehensive testing demonstrates SmartSilver technology meets rigorous industry standards
STATE COLLEGE, PA (July 18, 2024) - NanoHorizons, Inc., a leader in nanoscale materials engineering, today announced the completion of comprehensive third-party efficacy testing for its SmartSilver antimicrobial technology. The independent laboratory evaluation validates SmartSilver’s superior antimicrobial performance and exceptional wash durability across diverse textile substrates and applications.
Testing was conducted by accredited independent laboratories using internationally recognized test methods, providing objective validation of SmartSilver’s performance claims and supporting manufacturer adoption for applications requiring verified antimicrobial efficacy.
Testing Methodology
The comprehensive efficacy evaluation employed multiple standard test methods to assess SmartSilver’s antimicrobial performance:
AATCC Test Method 100: Quantitative antimicrobial assessment measuring bacterial reduction on textile samples. SmartSilver-treated fabrics demonstrated greater than 99.9% reduction of target organisms within specified contact times.
AATCC Test Method 147: Antibacterial activity assessment using the parallel streak method. Testing confirmed significant zones of inhibition for SmartSilver-treated samples against common bacteria.
ISO 20743: International standard for textile antimicrobial activity determination. Results validated SmartSilver’s efficacy across multiple bacterial species relevant to textile applications.
Wash Durability Testing: Samples underwent 100+ home and commercial laundry cycles following AATCC standards, with antimicrobial efficacy testing after designated intervals. Results demonstrated maintained performance throughout the test protocol, confirming SmartSilver’s permanent bonding characteristics.
Performance Results
Independent testing validated several key performance attributes:
Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: SmartSilver demonstrated effective antimicrobial activity against diverse bacterial organisms including gram-positive and gram-negative species commonly associated with textile odor and contamination concerns.
Rapid Action: Antimicrobial activity was observed within short contact times, supporting effectiveness during normal wear conditions.
Sustained Performance: Wash durability testing confirmed antimicrobial efficacy persisted through extensive laundering, with no significant performance degradation observed through 100 wash cycles.
Substrate Versatility: Testing encompassed multiple fiber types including cotton, polyester, nylon, and blended fabrics, demonstrating SmartSilver’s effectiveness across diverse textile substrates.
Industry Implications
Third-party validation provides manufacturers with objective performance data supporting product claims and marketing communications. Independent testing is increasingly important as:
- Consumer Awareness: End users are more knowledgeable about antimicrobial technologies and seek products with verified performance
- Regulatory Compliance: Certain markets and applications require substantiation of antimicrobial efficacy claims
- Quality Assurance: Manufacturers need reliable performance data to ensure consistent product quality
- Competitive Differentiation: Verified performance provides credible basis for premium product positioning
“Independent testing provides the objective validation that manufacturers and consumers demand,” noted a NanoHorizons spokesperson. “These results confirm what we’ve observed in development and commercial applications: SmartSilver delivers superior, durable antimicrobial performance across diverse textile applications.”
Testing Standards and Accreditation
All efficacy testing was performed by laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 standards, ensuring testing competency and data reliability. Test methods followed published standards developed by:
- AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists): Leading technical organization for textile testing standards
- ISO (International Organization for Standardization): Global standards body for quality, safety, and efficiency
- ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials): Development of voluntary consensus standards
Accredited laboratory testing provides traceable, reproducible results that manufacturers can reference in technical documentation, marketing materials, and regulatory submissions.
Application Support
NanoHorizons provides comprehensive technical support to manufacturers incorporating SmartSilver technology, including:
- Performance Validation: Guidance on appropriate test methods for specific applications
- Sample Testing: Coordination of efficacy testing for customer-specific fabric constructions and applications
- Technical Documentation: Provision of relevant test data and technical specifications
- Regulatory Support: Assistance with regulatory compliance requirements for specific markets
Commercial Availability
SmartSilver antimicrobial technology is available for integration into textile manufacturing processes worldwide. NanoHorizons works collaboratively with fabric mills, finishers, and brand partners to optimize SmartSilver implementation for specific applications and performance requirements.
The company’s technical team provides application engineering support to ensure successful technology integration and optimal antimicrobial performance in finished products.
SmartSilver Technology
SmartSilver, the smarter anti-odor and antimicrobial answer, is engineered at the nanoscale to impart permanent anti-odor and antimicrobial properties to natural and synthetic fibers and fabrics. The technology delivers the antimicrobial power of pure silver through nanoscale additives that form permanent bonds with fiber structures, ensuring life-of-product protection.
SmartSilver’s proprietary formulation enables seamless integration with existing textile manufacturing processes while delivering superior antimicrobial performance validated through rigorous independent testing.
About NanoHorizons, Inc.
NanoHorizons is a custom nanoscale materials engineering company dedicated to solving real-world challenges through innovative nanotechnology. The company’s SmartSilver brand is recognized worldwide as a leader in providing permanent anti-odor and antimicrobial protection to natural and synthetic fibers and fabrics. SmartSilver additives, along with NanoHorizons’ other technologies, deliver measurable value in industries ranging from performance apparel to medical instrumentation. To learn more about NanoHorizons, visit www.nanohorizons.com.
For information on antimicrobial testing standards, see AATCC Technical Resources and ISO Standards Development.
Media Contact: NanoHorizons, Inc. Business Development info@nanohorizons.com www.nanohorizons.com