(JNS.org) The Israeli company Nano Textile has invented a technology capable of making any fabric capable of killing bacteria. The technology prevents bacteria growth on natural and synthetic fibers, which helps prevent the spread of infections acquired in hospitals and reduces cross-contamination between medical staff and patients. Developed by Prof. Aharon Gedanken from Israel’s Bar Ilan University and funded by about $17 million from the European Union’s FP7 program, the technology works by embedding zinc-oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles into the fabric. ZnO, which has antibacterial properties, is even capable of eradicating antibiotic resistant bacteria such as MRSA. Patented in both the U.S. and Israel, the technology is still awaiting approval in Asia and Europe. The process of making the fabric is outlined in a new article published in the scientific journal Cellulose. “After establishing proof-of-concept, we are now in the process of raising the necessary capital to begin operations. The potential for our antibacterial fabric technology reaches far beyond medical applications, as it is relevant to a variety of industries such as airplanes, trains and luxury cars in the transportation industry; babywear, sports clothing and undergarments in the clothing industry, restaurants and hotels in the entertainment and tourist industries,” said Nano Textile President Lilac Mandeles.