Nanophase Technologies Corporation (Nasdaq: NANX), a leader in nanocrystalline materials and engineering advanced nanomaterials solutions, has filed a U.S. patent application on nanostructured films and coatings with improved mechanical properties. The patent details carefully controlled mixtures of nanoparticles that provide surprisingly superior abrasion and wear resistance with unusual clarity and transparency for wear or abrasion resistant applications, including coatings, where both characteristics are required. Nanophase currently has approximately 31 patents and patent applications covering its proprietary nanoparticle technology and nanomaterial application solutions.

According to Dr. Richard Brotzman, Nanophase's Vice President of Research and Development, "The use of multi-modal particle size distributions in nanostructured films, fibers and coatings enables significantly enhanced physical and optical performance compared to previous materials. We believe that this technology will allow the company to address a variety of applications where increased wear or abrasion resistance is desired corresponding coating clarity and transparency."

Nanophase Technologies Corporation provides engineered solutions utilizing nanocrystalline materials for a variety of industrial product applications. Using proprietary technology to produce nanocrystalline materials, the company creates products with unique performance attributes. The company's global customer base includes a number of Fortune 500 companies.

See www.nanophase.com for more information.