The very first start-up to emerge from the Institut Adolphe Merkle, NanoLockin has developed an innovative instrument for counting nanoparticles.
Smaller than living cells, nanoparticles can be found in numerous products such as cosmetics, food and clothing.
A manufacturer, for example, can incorporate silver nanoparticles into sportswear to eliminate bacteria.
However, strict controls are required: what is the concentration of nanoparticles in the fibers?
Do they adhere to the fabric, or can they deposit on the skin and cause allergies?
This is where the measuring instrument developed by NanoLockin comes in.
Thanks to a special technology, it stimulates the nanoparticles until they produce a tiny trace of heat.
A built-in infrared camera then detects, counts and observes them.
This innovative method has several advantages over current alternatives: it does not damage the sample, is easy to use and costs up to five times less.
We are pleased to support NanoLockin in a number of areas, including the establishment of a commercial strategy.
NanoLockin’s team also benefits from a CHF 150,000 interest-free loan from the Seed Capital Fribourg foundation.
This financial support will be used, among other things, to finalize NanoLockin’s prototypes. www.nanolockin.com