ZeoVation Ramps Up Commercialization of its Patent-Pending Antimicrobial Additive
ZeoVation is working hard to reduce the number of germs we all encounter every day and every place in our surroundings.
The Columbus, Ohio-based startup has licensed three patents from The Ohio State University related to special forms of nanoparticles called zeolites and their use in consumer applications.
Dr. Prabir Dutta, Distinguished University Professor of Chemistry, and Dr. Bo Wang, a former Ohio State doctoral student, developed the original nanozeolite and hierarchical zeolite formulations used to create a patented antimicrobial additive. The two researchers launched ZeoVation in 2016 and have successfully developed, designed and tested their additive, which is now awaiting final EPA registration.
“Once we have EPA clearance, we will be able to sell our product as an antimicrobial additive that can be used in five market segments: paints/coatings, bandages/wound care, plastics/polymers, textiles and consumer products,” says company CEO Steve Jones. “We already have customers waiting in the pipeline.” To date, ZeoVation has sold its silver nanozeolite in small amounts to researchers while awaiting a green light from the EPA.
The future global market potential and health impacts of ZeoVation’s antimicrobial additive are huge, according to Jones.
“Our product can be used to create plastic containers that prevent bacteria from growing and interior paint for hospitals to stop the spread of infections,” he explains. “Anywhere you potentially could find germs, you can use our additive to stop the transmission of bacteria.”
To date, ZeoVation has raised $800,000 in seed funding from friends and family and Rev1Ventures. It also has received $225,000 in SBIR Phase 1 grant funding.
Jones will be making a presentation to investors at the 2019 Midwest Growth Capital Symposium in anticipation of raising $1 million to $3 million in Series A round financing. The funding will enable ZeoVation to expand the commercialization of its additive and bolster its marketing and sales operation.
“We want to get out and tell our story to as many people as possible,” Jones says.
