May 17, 2006 — Virginia Tech is utilizing a nanotech product to protect athletes utilizing its synthetic turf fields, sports medicine training room, locker rooms, whirlpools and wrestling rooms.

Virginia Tech says it’s setting new standards of proactive protection by treating its facilities with Sports Antimicrobial System to provide what it calls `the best possible environment for its student-athletes.’ The system creates a long-lasting antimicrobial layer effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, mold, fungi and algae.

SAS is made up ofTurfAide, SportsAide and SportsAide Fabric Conditioner that treat a wide array of sports surfaces. TurfAide provides antimicrobial protection to synthetic turf systems; SportsAide protects athletic facilities including training rooms, locker rooms, whirlpools, gym mats and exercise equipment; while SportsAide Fabric Conditioner provides antimicrobial protection, stain releasers and odor control to sports laundry.

The nanotechnology in the Sports Antimicrobial System has been used in consumer goods ranging from shoes to diapers and in medical applications from clean rooms to surgical dressings for more than 30 years.