Mixing traditional science with nanotechnology, IIT Delhi-incubated startup Nanosafe Solutions has developed a range of antimicrobial i.e. antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal water storage containers and launched it as "AqCure", which is based on the inherent antimicrobial properties of copper. 

 

AqCure is a patented technology in which active nano-copper is released in a sustainable manner from a polymer matrix. The released copper makes the outer and inner surface of the container antimicrobial, reducing transmission of microbes upon direct contact, and making the stored water microbiologically safe. 

 

Additionally, the released copper in water is within permissible limits and thus fortifies stored water as copper is also an essential micronutrient, needed for growth.

 

Elaborating the features of AqCure, Dr Anasuya Roy, an IIT Delhi Alumna and CEO, NanoSafe Solutions said, “AqCure water containers have>99.99% antibacterial, >99.99% antifungal, and >99% antiviral activity tested as per ISO and ASTM standards. These containers are made from BPA/BPS-free high quality food grade polymers and is ideal for home and office use.”

 

AqCure water storage containers are available in different size variants from 700 ml office bottles to 1-liter refrigerator bottles to be used at homes to 10-20-liter bubble tops and cans used for storage and distribution of potable water. 

 

AqCure polymer masterbatch (polymers compounded with active nano-copper) granules based on different carrier polymers are also available, which can be used in polymer molding and extrusion operations to make the final products antimicrobial. 

 

The concept has also won the Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG), sponsored by BIRAC, Department of Biotechnology, GoI.

 

Dr. Mangala Joshi, Professor at Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, IIT Delhi and Mentor, NanoSafe Solutions said, “Accessibility to safe drinking water at all times is a challenge that is encountered even now, especially in rural and urban poor areas. Drinking water is one of the key vectors of deadly viruses and bacteria, which were a cause of previous epidemics. We are hopeful that AqCure will help people in accessing clean and safe drinking water and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and building immunity”.