Nanotechnology for a cleaner toilet
A major Thai manufacturer of sanitaryware has signed an agreement with Chulalongkorn University's Metallurgy and Materials Science Research Institute for the development of a new nanotechnology to provide anti-bacterial protection on ceramic sanitaryware.
Nahm Sanitaryware Co Ltd and the research institute are collaborating in the development of what they call "Stealth Guard Titania Silver Nano", a technology used to coat the surface of sanitaryware. Research work has been under way for four months, at a cost of more than Bt200,000.The institute's director, Professor Supot Hannongbua, said the nanotechnology was originally developed for textile materials. Its use with ceramics is a pioneering effort. The institute believes the research will successfully provide a level of hygiene that may set a new international standard. It is also a good example of cooperation between private and public organisations to support advances in technology. The new technology uses particles of titanium dioxide (titania) and silver, which have recognised anti-bacterial properties. The new process aims to create a coating which will give 70-per-cent protection against bacteria. Nahm Sanitaryware president Natchana Phenjati said the company would use the new technology for the first time on 13 models of sanitaryware to be launched next month. The products are expected be popular and accepted among customers concerned about better health and quality of life. The company also announced yesterday that it would increase the price of all its products by 5 per cent because of higher costs. However, it said development of the new technology was not a factor in the price rise. Nahm Sanitaryware has 15 per cent of the Thai sanitaryware market, which is currently worth Bt4 billion. The company is aiming for sales of Bt530 million this year - Bt280 million from the local market and Bt250 million from exports. Its main export markets are China, the United Kingdom and Taiwan. However, it has begun sales in Australia and New Zealand this year. Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul The Nation
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