Skip to content 
BNNano, Inc
In an age defined by rapid technological advancement, the materials that power innovation often remain behind the scenes. Yet, it is these very materials that determine the strength, efficiency, and sustainability of modern systems. At the forefront of this silent revolution is BNNano, Inc., a pioneering advanced manufacturing company that is redefining the possibilities of material science through cutting-edge nanotechnology.
Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Burlington, North Carolina, BNNano focuses on developing and manufacturing Boron Nitride Nanotubes (BNNTs)—a class of nanomaterials known for their exceptional strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. What sets the company apart is its ability to produce these advanced materials at commercially viable scales, overcoming a challenge that has limited the broader adoption of nanotechnology for decades.
At the heart of BNNano’s innovation lies its patented NanoBarb™ technology—a unique variation of boron nitride nanotubes engineered to enhance the performance of everyday materials. When integrated into metals, plastics, or textiles, NanoBarbs significantly improve their natural properties. Aluminum can achieve strength comparable to steel, plastics can handle higher thermal loads, and fabrics can gain durability similar to high-performance fibers. This ability to transform ordinary materials into extraordinary ones positions BNNano as a key enabler across industries ranging from aerospace and defense to automotive, biomedical, and electronics.
The company’s journey is a testament to perseverance and bold thinking. Co-founded by material science experts Steve Wilcenski and Jason Taylor, BNNano was built on the belief that the next technological revolution would be driven not by devices alone, but by the materials that make them possible. Their vision was to move beyond laboratory-scale experimentation and bring nanomaterials into real-world, industrial applications—an ambition that required both technical innovation and manufacturing excellence.
One of the biggest challenges in nanotechnology has historically been scalability. While many advanced materials demonstrate remarkable properties in research environments, producing them consistently and cost-effectively at scale has remained elusive. BNNano tackled this challenge head-on by developing a streamlined manufacturing process that reduces costs while maintaining high quality. This breakthrough has allowed the company to transition nanotechnology from a niche scientific concept into a commercially viable solution.
Beyond performance enhancement, BNNano is also committed to addressing global challenges. The company’s materials have shown promising results in environmental applications, particularly in water purification. Its NanoBarb technology has demonstrated the ability to remove harmful “forever chemicals” (PFAS) from water, offering a potential breakthrough in tackling one of the world’s most persistent environmental issues. Additionally, its innovations contribute to energy efficiency by enabling lighter, stronger, and more thermally efficient materials.
BNNano’s impact is further amplified through collaborations with leading organizations, including government agencies, research institutions, and global industrial players. Its materials are already being used in applications that demand high performance and reliability, from defense systems to next-generation manufacturing processes.
What truly defines BNNano, however, is its philosophy. The company believes that transformative change comes from challenging the status quo and embracing unconventional approaches. By focusing equally on innovation, manufacturing, and real-world application, BNNano has created a model that bridges the gap between science and industry.
Looking ahead, BNNano is poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of materials science. As industries continue to demand stronger, lighter, and more sustainable materials, the company’s technologies offer a glimpse into what is possible when innovation meets determination.
In conclusion, BNNano, Inc. is not just advancing material science—it is redefining it. Through its relentless pursuit of innovation and its commitment to solving real-world challenges, the company exemplifies how perseverance and ingenuity can transform the smallest building blocks into powerful drivers of global progress.
