Sigma-Aldrich (Nasdaq: SIAL) and SouthWest NanoTechnologies Inc. (SWeNT), a leading producer of single-wall carbon nanotubes, announced today that they have signed an agreement under which Sigma-Aldrich will distribute SWeNT's single-wall carbon nanotubes to the research and development community.
Under the terms of the agreement, Sigma-Aldrich will exclusively distribute research quantities of SWeNT(R) CG 100, SWeNT(R) SG 65 and SWeNT(R) SG 76 single-wall nanotubes globally through its Aldrich(R) division (http://www.sigma-aldrich.com/nanocarbon). SWeNT will continue to work closely with industry partners to deliver commercial quantities of the materials and focus on commercial application development and large-scale production.
Single-wall carbon nanotubes consist of a hollow cylinder of carbon with a diameter equal to approximately one nanometer -- a billionth of a meter. Due to their unusual structure, single-wall nanotubes exhibit extraordinary optical and electronic properties, tremendous strength and flexibility, and high thermal and chemical stability. These remarkable properties make them suitable for a wide range of applications in the automotive, aeronautics, electronics, displays, energy and healthcare markets.
"There are significant global market opportunities for single-wall carbon nanotubes, and Sigma-Aldrich has a world-class distribution network. This agreement will provide the best possible products and service to the research and development community, which is incorporating SWeNT carbon nanotubes into innovative, emerging technologies," said SWeNT CEO David Arthur. "In our role as a leading producer of high-quality single-wall nanotubes, we are committed to being an innovative partner in Sigma-Aldrich's continued development and creative applications. This agreement is key to reaching that goal."
Ilya Koltover, business development manager, Aldrich Chemistry and Materials Science, added: "Progress in nanotechnology research depends on a reliable supply of consistently high-quality nanomaterials, supported by thorough characterization and technical information. This is especially true for single wall carbon nanotubes, and we are pleased to work with SWeNT, who is committed to the goal of providing such supply. This partnership will help researchers and accelerate nanotechnology innovation around the world."