SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Silver nanoparticles are emerging as one of the fastest growing product categories in the Nanotechnology industry, according to Bourne Research. The market research firm reports that the ability to produce particles of silver at the nanoscale is allowing companies to leverage its known antimicrobial properties in ways never before imagined as an effective means of infection control.
"Silver nanoparticles may very well become the next 'it' product, much like antibacterial soaps took the consumer sector by storm a decade ago," said Marlene Bourne, principal analyst with Bourne Research. "Of course, some are concerned that being too clean is perpetuating the rise of allergies and autoimmune diseases, but there are many applications where its use makes perfect sense."
Bourne Research reports that the medical sector was one of the first on board where end-uses have already migrated from burn dressings to surgical instruments and hand sanitizers. In addition, a recent study by a leading supplier of textiles to hospitals showed a dramatic reduction of infectious microbes in curtains embedded with silver nanoparticles. Sportswear manufacturers are also embracing its use to prevent odor in clothing. In the home, consumers can already find washing machines, refrigerators, HVAC filters, brooms and even food containers that employ silver nanoparticles to kill bacteria and limit mold growth -- and this is just the beginning.
Source: Bourne Research
Â
Broadening the Path: Diverse Educational Routes Into Infection Prevention Careers
July 4th 2025Once dominated by nurses, infection prevention now welcomes professionals from public health, lab science, and respiratory therapy—each bringing unique expertise that strengthens patient safety and IPC programs.
How Contaminated Is Your Stretcher? The Hidden Risks on Hospital Wheels
July 3rd 2025Despite routine disinfection, hospital surfaces, such as stretchers, remain reservoirs for harmful microbes, according to several recent studies. From high-touch areas to damaged mattresses and the effectiveness of antimicrobial coatings, researchers continue to uncover persistent risks in environmental hygiene, highlighting the critical need for innovative, continuous disinfection strategies in health care settings.
Beyond the Surface: Rethinking Environmental Hygiene Validation at Exchange25
June 30th 2025Environmental hygiene is about more than just shiny surfaces. At Exchange25, infection prevention experts urged the field to look deeper, rethink blame, and validate cleaning efforts across the entire care environment, not just EVS tasks.