Nanophase Technologies Corporation (Nasdaq: NANX), a technology leader in the development of advanced nanoengineered products, today announced the appointment of Glenn Judd to vice president of operations.

In his previous role as assistant vice president of operations and engineering, Judd was instrumental in implementing key operational changes as the company shifted its business strategy to adopt more of a direct sales focus.

Judd kept the team positively focused as the operations group went through a major restructuring in the first quarter of this year, which streamlined activities and eliminated redundant job positions.

Utilizing resources more effectively and efficiently, he skillfully transitioned the group into a leaner operating unit. Judd joined Nanophase in 2000 after spending eight years with Eastman Kodak.

“Glenn has earned this promotion, and we are pleased we were able to fill the position from within the company,” said Nanophase president and chief executive officer Jess Jankowski.

“Glenn’s leadership and innovative approach have been instrumental in strengthening our gross margins during 2009, with positive expectations heading into 2010.

This represents another example of how our new management team, working as a cohesive unit, is positioning our company for sustainable growth in 2010.”

About Nanophase Technologies

Nanophase Technologies Corporation (NANX), nanophase.com, is a leader in nanomaterials technologies and provides nanoengineered products and solutions for multiple industrial product applications.

Using a platform of patented and proprietary integrated nanomaterial technologies, the Company creates products with unique performance attributes from two ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001 facilities.

Nanophase delivers commercial quantity and quality nanoparticles, coated nanoparticles, and nanoparticle dispersions in a variety of media.