Nanoshape GmbH, based in Karlsruhe, has been a member of the German Surface Technology Association (ZVO) since July 1, 2024. Nanoshape was founded in 2022 by Litsy Hüschelrath and Dr. Patrick Doll as a spin-off of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). The company's antibacterial surface technology is designed to significantly reduce the risk of infection, particularly in dental implantology, osteosynthesis materials for fracture treatment and, in the long term, artificial joints. In addition to core technology, Nanoshape also offers other surface finishes such as anodization, various etching techniques, laser marking and UV lithographic silicon processing.
Antibacterial nanostructures on dragonfly wings
The company's antibacterial technology was inspired by antibacterial nanostructures. These structures are found on the wings of dragonflies and have the special property of having a partially bactericidal effect on bacteria. This means that bacteria die on mere contact with the surface. This effect is purely due to the existing structures.
Application on titanium
The start-up was able to imitate this mechanism of action for use on titanium. In 2023, it was awarded the NEO Innovation Prize of the Karlsruhe Technology Region for this approach. The team is currently about to start a clinical study in dentistry. In addition to the medical applications of the technology, there is also great potential for the company's antibacterial surface technology in other sectors.