NanoCheck Algae Prevention From Altair - New Product

Altair Nanotechnologies, a leader in nanotechnology, nanomaterials and material science announced today that the safety and effectiveness of its NanoCheck™ swimming pool algae prevention compound has been validated in independent testing. Altair also announced that it expects to support a large scale program for swimming pool testing this summer. The success of this testing could result in the commercial launch of NanoCheck in the first quarter of 2005.

“We are pleased to announce that independent testing confirms and validates our NanoCheck algae prevention technology,” said Altair President Dr. Rudi E. Moerck. “The test results demonstrate the ability of NanoCheck to supplement and improve currently available swimming pool treatments to prevent algae growth. The results continue to reaffirm the growing acceptance and real-world applications of our nanotechnology platform across multiple vertical markets.”

“The first phase of the microbiological performance testing confirms NanoCheck’s ability to retard and prevent algae growth through absorption of phosphates from water,” continued Dr. Moerck. “The promising results serve as the springboard for additional testing focused on providing a safe, algae-free environment in swimming pools and spas. Testing of NanoCheck, which is not a biocide, confirmed that it is virtually insoluble in water, a necessary characteristic for materials used for the treatment of swimming pools."

Unwanted algae growth in swimming pools is a dilemma for pool owners worldwide. The National Swimming Pool and Spa Institute reports the market consists of approximately eight million pools and four million existing spas and hot tubs worldwide, with an additional 360,000 pools and approximately 260,000 spas and hot tubs being installed on a yearly basis.

Altair’s NanoCheck™ is a unique nano-structured compound that effectively aids in the prevention of algae growth in swimming pools and reduces filter fouling caused by biomass accumulation. NanoCheck, when used with conventional swimming pool treatments, affords enhanced protection against algae infestation. The compound is highly insoluble in water and works in conventional pool filtration systems. The algae prevention compound is not a biocide, is safe and effective, and requires no pool downtime during the algae prevention treatment. NanoCheck, used with the check-mark symbol is a registered trademark of Altair Nanotechnologies.

Posted 11^th March 2004