Nanotechnology companies are finding ways to make the world a cleaner place by exploring three methods for improving cleaning products. These methods are:
Producing films that can be applied to surfaces such as countertops or windows that make it much easier to keep those surfaces clean.
Using nanoparticles in soap that make it work better while producing less environmentally harmful byproducts.
Using materials in the cleaning process that are antibacterial, such as silver nanoparticles. Note that there is interest in regulating the use of silver nanoparticles because of concern that they may harm useful bacteria in groundwater, such as lakes, when released (see Nanotechnology news story below).
Titanium oxide nanoparticles as part of a film that uses the energy in light to kill bacteria on surfaces. Titanium oxide nanoparticles are called photocatalysts because of their ability to use energy in light to start the chemical reaction that kills the bacteria.
Customizing the properties of particles a few nanometers in diameter to make a better soap.
A washing machine that uses silver ions to clean clothes.
Customizing the properties of thin polymer layers that you can wipe onto glass to make a long lasting, water repellant film. This technology can make it easier to keep your car's windshield clean and improve visibility when you're driving in the rain.
| Company | Product | Advantage |
| Altimate EnviorCare | Spray on film containing titanium oxide nanoparticles | Kills bacteria and reduces odors |
| EnviroSan Products | Liquid cleaner using nanoparticles called micelles to remove oils and dirt | Replace solvents with lower level of VOC's and other pollutants |
| Nanofilm | Liquid in which polymer molecules will align with each other, when applied to a surface such as a windshield, to bond with the glass and form a very thin, strong polymer film | Repels water and dirt to increase visibility with longer lifetime then conventional films |
| Nanotec | Spray on liquid containing nanoparticles which form a hydrophobic film. | Repels water and dirt |
| Samsung | Silver nanoparticles used in household appliances such as clothes washer or refrigerator | Kills bacteria and reduces odors |
| Sky Spring Nanomaterials | Solvent used to prevent the deposit of asphalt like material in pipelines used for the transport or processing of oil. | Reduces fouling of pipelines |