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."