A functional coating process that provides surfaces with specifically tested protective and repellent properties, depending on the product system and application. The appearance, feel and breathability of the respective material can be retained.
Contributing to improved hygiene and working conditions through functional surface technologies, while taking account of the safety and environmental compatibility requirements of each application: these goals have motivated us since 2002 to explore new applications for our NP® Liquid Glass technology and bring them to market responsibly.
Drawing on many years of interdisciplinary research and development, we have developed a coating process for a wide range of applications. Depending on the product system, substrate and application process, surfaces can be provided with tested protective and repellent properties. Their appearance, feel and breathability can be retained in accordance with the test results available for the respective application.
Our developments are designed to provide long-term functional benefits. Depending on the application, they can, for example, support reduced cleaning and maintenance requirements, a reduction in the use of certain cleaning agents, or alternative material and protection concepts. Whether and to what extent these effects can be achieved depends on the specific system, substrate, exposure and usage process.
For the application “Liquid Glass against hospital pathogens” – a research project initiated following an MRSA infection within the immediate family – Nanopool received the “365 Orte im Land der Ideen” award in 2011, among others, as the national winner in the Science category. Further awards recognise specific Nanopool developments in areas such as surface functionalisation, packaging, agriculture and photovoltaics.
Today, Nanopool technology is used in numerous industries, including technical textiles, packaging, construction materials, glass, metals and specialist surfaces.
Our alcohol- or water-based coating systems can reduce the adhesion of dirt and – in the case of appropriately tested product systems – microorganisms, while making it more difficult for water, dirt and other substances to penetrate. In addition, the product matrix can be specifically functionalised for certain applications.
Our Mission
To provide functional surface technologies whose performance can be tested and transparently assessed for the respective application.
Nanopool was established in 2002. The family-owned company brings together research, development and technological expertise at its headquarters in Schwalbach, Germany.
Nanopool operates as a technology platform company, developing application-specific functional surface systems for numerous industries. Material efficiency, food-contact suitability and the duration of the protective effect are assessed specifically for each product and intended application.
The products are developed on the basis of interdisciplinary research and development for defined applications and requirement profiles.
Nanopool develops surface technologies with the aim of reducing cleaning and maintenance requirements, helping to preserve the value of materials and improving their functional performance.
The effects actually achieved depend on the application and must be evaluated using suitable tests.
Our coating systems are designed to provide long-lasting protective functionality. The achievable durability depends, among other factors, on the substrate, application, use, cleaning and mechanical exposure.
A longer service or maintenance life can reduce the amount of materials and labour required. The specific achievable benefit is assessed separately for each application.
Protecting people and applications has been at the heart of our interdisciplinary research for many years.
Safety, suitability and performance are tested specifically for each product and its intended application. Depending on the product, this includes tests relating to physiological safety, food contact, biocompatibility and antibacterial or virucidal efficacy.
When developing our systems, we consider not only technical performance, but also the ingredients, the application process and the safety and environmental requirements relevant to the respective use.
Our base matrix is based on silicon dioxide (SiO₂).
Statements concerning potential savings or environmental benefits always relate to the specifically identified and tested application – not generally to the entire product portfolio or the complete life cycle.
The NP® technology platform creates ultra-thin functional layers with repellent properties. Depending on the product system and tested application, they can reduce the adhesion of dirt, liquids or certain microorganisms.
Selected NP® systems have been tested by independent institutes for defined properties. Depending on the product and substrate, the supporting test documentation includes:
Results obtained for one product or test specimen are not transferred to other products, substrates or applications without separate supporting evidence.
Ultra-thin, visually unobtrusive functional layers
Product-specific testing of suitability and safety
Long-lasting functionality under the respective tested conditions
Adaptation to different substrates and industry requirements
Technology developments recognised with multiple international awards
By specifically adapting our base matrix, we create individual product lines for the defined requirements of different industries.
Our alcohol- or water-based coating systems can reduce the adhesion of dirt and – in the case of appropriately tested product systems – microorganisms, while making it more difficult for water, dirt and other substances to penetrate.
In addition, the product matrix can be specifically functionalised for certain applications.
The surface properties of passive NP® systems can reduce the adhesion of dirt or liquids.
Statements concerning effects against microorganisms apply exclusively to the products and test conditions evaluated for this purpose.
For selected applications, the product matrix can be specifically supplemented with active substances.
Efficacy, safety and regulatory suitability are assessed for the respective product and its intended use.
One core technology that is adapted in the form of individual product lines to defined industrial applications and their requirements.
The NP® technology platform creates ultra-thin functional layers which, depending on the product system, can improve performance, protect surfaces and help to preserve the value of materials and applications.
From historic monuments and transport hubs to five-star hotels and clinical environments — a selection of projects in which NP® systems have been applied.
Nanopool collaborates with universities, research institutes, testing laboratories and industry partners to develop, test and optimise functional surface technologies for real-world applications.
This interdisciplinary approach combines scientific expertise with application-oriented development and validation.
Joint research projects and knowledge sharing.
Scientific expertise and applied research.
Independent analyses and application-specific performance testing.
Joint development and integration into industrial applications.
Assessment of compliance and standards within the respective scope.
International collaboration for functional solutions.
The repellent properties of selected NP® functional layers can reduce the adhesion of unwanted substances. For product systems tested for this purpose, this also applies to certain microorganisms.
The surface becomes more water-repellent while remaining open to water vapour diffusion.
Moisture, dirt and salts can penetrate mineral surfaces.
Under suitable conditions of use, this can reduce cleaning or maintenance requirements.
Depending on the surface, type of contamination and hygiene requirements, cleaning may be possible using less cleaning agent or water. Whether and to what extent this can be achieved must be considered for the specific application. Existing disinfection and hygiene requirements remain unaffected.
In agricultural research and application projects, selected NP® systems have been investigated as alternative protection and functionalisation approaches. Statements concerning a reduction in the use of plant protection products or effects on yields apply exclusively to the specific application investigated and the conditions documented there.
For paper and natural-fibre applications, specially developed coatings can provide certain barrier functions. Whether this allows conventional materials to be replaced or their proportion to be reduced depends on the packaging structure, performance requirements and regulatory specifications.
Documented results for defined applications
The following video documentaries provide insights into the scientific principles, applications and public presentation of NP® functional surface technologies.
The results shown relate to the respective application presented and do not replace product-specific testing documentation.
Nanopool technologies are available through various delivery models. The most suitable option depends on the substrate, process parameters, logistics and defined performance requirements.
Pre-formulated systems for direct application and pilot trials.
Concentrated formulations for coordinated logistics, dilution and industrial processes.
Solutions developed for specific substrates, process parameters and performance requirements.
Nanopool has received international recognition for innovation, forward-looking approach and responsibility — reflecting different aspects of our technology platform across multiple industries.
Everything you need to know about NP® Liquid Glass technology, its safety and its applications.
NP® Liquid Glass is an ultra-thin, transparent surface coating based on a SiO₂ base matrix. Depending on the material, application and correct professional application, it can help protect surfaces, facilitate cleaning and hygienic maintenance, and support their resistance — while largely preserving their appearance, feel and breathability.
The NP® barrier layer is roughly five hundred times thinner than a human hair. Despite being imperceptible to bare senses, it bonds with the surface and protects it for a long period of time.
Biocompatibility has been tested for selected product systems. The underlying SiO₂ matrix is based on a natural mineral. Safety-related statements apply only to the tested product, its intended use and the respective scope of testing.
Depending on the product system, the technology can be used on a wide range of materials: textiles, fibres, polymers, natural stone, plastic, glass and ceramics, wood, metal, paper and cardboard. Suitability is assessed for each material and application.
Because the repellent layer can reduce the adhesion of unwanted substances and microorganisms, suitable surfaces can often be cleaned more easily. Whether and to what extent water or cleaning agents can be saved depends on the surface, the type of soiling and the hygiene requirements, and must be assessed for the specific application.
The passive effect of our alcohol- or water-based technology is designed to reduce the adhesion of dirt and microorganisms. In addition, we can specifically supplement the product matrix with active ingredients to individually adapt its functionality to new areas of application.
Nanopool operates as a technology platform company. Rather than expanding with its own facilities and staff, it centralizes research, development and know-how at its headquarters in Hülzweiler, Germany, and develops application-specific functional surface systems for a broad range of industrial sectors.
We look forward to collaborating with you on innovative surface technologies that create real value.
changing the way we live
