BioCognitix Revolutionizes Dishwasher Rack Durability with Innovative Coating Technology

SPOKANE, WA – November 8, 2023 – BioCognitix LLC, a Spokane-based materials science company, today announced a breakthrough in dishwasher rack longevity. They’ve partnered with Whirlpool to integrate a new, bio-inspired coating onto their dishwasher racks, dramatically increasing their resistance to rust, corrosion, and the general wear and tear of daily dishwashing. For years, dishwasher owners have faced the frustrating reality of deteriorating racks. That flimsy, rusty rack is a common kitchen complaint. Whether it’s chipping plastic, bent tines, or, most annoyingly, racks that just fall apart after a few years, the problem is widespread. Replacements are costly and contribute to unnecessary waste. BioCognitix believes they've finally cracked the code to a truly durable dishwasher rack. “We were seeing this consistent problem from consumer feedback – racks just weren’t holding up,” explains Dr. Anya Sharma, Chief Scientist at BioCognitix. “People are buying new dishwashers, but often the rack is the first thing that goes. That seems crazy! We thought, 'there has to be a better way.'" BioCognitix, founded in 2018, isn’t your typical materials company. They specialize in biomimicry – taking inspiration from nature to solve real-world problems. Their team of chemists, engineers, and biologists looks at how nature builds things – incredibly strong, resilient structures – and translates those principles into advanced materials. “Think about a seashell,” says Dr. Sharma. “It's constantly exposed to saltwater, abrasive sand, and impacts, yet it remains remarkably durable. That’s because of its intricate layered structure and unique material composition. We asked ourselves, ‘How can we replicate that in a coating for a dishwasher rack?’” The answer is a proprietary coating developed by BioCognitix, dubbed “AquaShield.” AquaShield isn't just a paint; it’s a multi-layered nanocomposite material. The base layer provides exceptional adhesion to the metal and plastic components of the rack. The middle layer is a network of self-healing polymers, which can automatically repair minor scratches and abrasions. And the top layer is a superhydrophobic coating, meaning water simply beads up and rolls off, preventing corrosion and staining. “We tested AquaShield relentlessly,” says Mark Olsen, VP of Engineering at BioCognitix. “We subjected racks coated with it to extreme conditions – high heat, harsh detergents, simulated years of use – and the results were stunning. We saw a significant reduction in corrosion, chipping, and bending compared to traditional coatings.” Whirlpool recognized the potential of AquaShield and began pilot testing it on select dishwasher rack models earlier this year. The initial feedback from consumers has been overwhelmingly positive. Users are reporting racks that look newer for longer, with significantly reduced signs of wear and tear. “We’re always looking for ways to improve the durability and longevity of our appliances,” says Sarah Chen, a Whirlpool product manager involved in the project. “BioCognitix’s technology stood out because it’s not just a superficial fix; it addresses the underlying causes of rack deterioration. It’s a real game-changer.” How AquaShield Works – A Deeper Dive AquaShield isn’t just one thing. It’s a carefully engineered combination of materials. Here’s a breakdown: Adhesion Layer: A modified epoxy resin creates a super-strong bond with both the metal and plastic components of the rack, preventing delamination. This is crucial because standard coatings often peel or flake over time. Self-Healing Polymer Matrix: Microscopic capsules embedded within the coating contain a liquid healing agent. When a scratch occurs, these capsules rupture, releasing the healing agent which fills the crack and polymerizes, effectively “healing” the damage. This extends the lifespan of the rack significantly. Superhydrophobic Top Coat: This layer is engineered with nanoscale structures that create a surface with extremely low surface energy. Water droplets simply roll off, taking with them dirt, grime, and corrosive detergents. This prevents staining, rust, and the build-up of mineral deposits. Benefits for Consumers The integration of AquaShield technology on Whirlpool dishwasher racks offers several key benefits for consumers: Increased Durability: Racks last significantly longer, reducing the need for replacements. Reduced Rust and Corrosion: The superhydrophobic coating protects against water damage and prevents rust from forming. Improved Aesthetics: Racks maintain their appearance for longer, keeping your dishwasher looking newer. Environmentally Friendly: Fewer replacements mean less waste and a reduced environmental footprint. Peace of Mind: Knowing your dishwasher rack is built to last provides added convenience and value. Looking Ahead BioCognitix is already exploring other applications for its AquaShield technology, including coatings for other appliance components, marine equipment, and even automotive parts. “We believe biomimicry has the potential to revolutionize materials science,” says Dr. Sharma. “By learning from nature, we can create materials that are stronger, more durable, and more sustainable. This is just the beginning.” Whirlpool plans to roll out AquaShield technology across a wider range of its dishwasher rack models in the coming months. Consumers can expect to see improved durability and longevity in their dishwashing experience. About BioCognitix LLC: BioCognitix LLC is a Spokane, Washington-based materials science company specializing in biomimicry and advanced coatings. Their mission is to develop innovative, sustainable materials inspired by nature. Learn more at [website address - hypothetical]. Contact: David Miller Public Relations BioCognitix LLC [email protected] 781-869-4119