Nano-composite coatings are made by embedding nano-particulates in a polymer matrix. The benefits accrued by incorporating nanoparticles into a polymer matrix become economically driven when several advantageous properties are obtained simultaneously, compared with conventional materials, i.e., transparency with UV-protection, increased abrasion resistance, and toughness.

Nanophase Technologies Corporation (NTC) has an integrated family of commercially scaled technologies – metal-oxide nanoparticle manufacturing, nanoparticle surface treatment, and dispersion of nanoparticles into a range of fluids and organic resins used in the manufacture of nano-composite coatings.

In 2004, Nanophase and Altana, BYK-Chemie, formed a partnership to develop and market nanoparticles for use in coatings, inks, and plastics. The partnership has developed 10 nanoparticle additives (alumina and zinc oxide) for use in abrasion-resistant and UV-protective coatings. The performance properties of these products will be presented, along with an overview other nanoparticle-based additives currently under development which are designed to meet specific needs in a variety of coating applications.