NanoMech has enhanced the manufacturing industry by developing products that make good economic sense for industries and that promote national environmental and energy priorities. With support from EPA’s SBIR Program, NanoMech developed an innovative cutting tool technology called TuffTek®. By using tools coated with TuffTek®, manufacturers can realize lower capital costs by not having to purchase new equipment, as the cubic boron nitride coating extends the use and life of industrial tools. In addition, less energy and resources are expended in production and maintenance of cutting tools as TuffTek® does not require polishing after coating. This offers additional environmental advantages in that no chemicals have to be used or disposed because of polishing, and hazardous waste is avoided. The increased longevity of the tools means that less tungsten carbide and cobalt must be mined. These two elements are key components of the tools, and mining operations are expensive and can be detrimental to the environment. Extending the natural life of the these metals through TuffTek® strengthens the manufacturing industry in the United States, both because the amount of energy to manufacture is conserved and the U.S. industry is less dependent on imports of the metals from China. NanoMech’s firm commitment to sustainability is shown through its products.