Nanophase Technologies

About

Nanophase Technologies Corporation, a NASDAQ-traded pioneer established in 1989, specializes in engineered nanomaterials and advanced formulations serving the personal care, surface treatment, and industrial markets. Based in Romeoville, Illinois, Nanophase has distinguished itself through proprietary manufacturing processes that produce precisely controlled zinc oxide nanoparticles and other metal oxide nanomaterials with exceptional uniformity and performance characteristics. With over $100 million in funding and 50-100 employees, the company has successfully transitioned from research-stage nanotechnology to commercial-scale production, demonstrating the viability of nanomaterials in consumer applications. Nanophase's core technology revolves around physical vapor synthesis methods that create ultra-pure, non-agglomerated nanoparticles with narrow size distributions—critical attributes for consistent product performance. Their zinc oxide nanoparticles, marketed extensively to the personal care industry, provide transparent, broad-spectrum UV protection in sunscreens and cosmetics without the white residue associated with conventional zinc oxide. These nanomaterials offer superior photostability and cosmetic elegance while maintaining safety profiles that meet stringent regulatory requirements. Beyond personal care, Nanophase develops surface treatment solutions where nanoparticle-enhanced coatings provide antimicrobial properties, enhanced durability, and improved optical characteristics. The company's personal care actives portfolio includes not only UV filters but also anti-aging ingredients and skin-conditioning agents enhanced through nanotechnology. Nanophase works closely with formulation scientists at major consumer product companies to integrate their nanomaterials into commercial products, providing technical support throughout product development and regulatory approval processes. The company's manufacturing facilities incorporate advanced process controls and quality assurance systems necessary for producing materials that contact human skin, meeting FDA and international safety standards. Throughout its three-decade history, Nanophase has accumulated extensive intellectual property including patents covering nanoparticle synthesis, surface modification, and formulation technologies. The company represents a successful model for commercializing nanotechnology in strictly regulated consumer markets, demonstrating how engineered nanomaterials can enhance product performance while addressing safety and environmental concerns. As consumer demand for high-performance, transparent sunscreens continues growing, Nanophase's expertise in cosmetically elegant nanoparticle formulations positions the company for continued growth in the multi-billion dollar personal care market.