Swiss innovator HeiQ has announced its launch of an antiviral and antimicrobial textile treatment called ‘HeiQ Viroblock NPJ01,’ which has tested effective against COVID-19.

“Since its inception 15 years ago, HeiQ has forged a solid innovation track record helping brands improve textile products,” Innovation Textiles mentioned the company’s statement. “Catalyzed to action by the global fight against Coronavirus, HeiQ launches HeiQ Viroblock NPJ03, an antiviral and antimicrobial textile treatment which is proven effective against human coronavirus (229E) in face mask testing, significantly enhancing the antiviral log reduction from 2.90 of untreated face masks to 4.48, over 99.99% reduction of virus infectivity. (Remarks: a log reduction of 2 is equivalent to 100 times the effectiveness),” it said.

The company’s CEO Carlo Centonze mentioned that virologist Dr. Thierry Pelet of their scientific Advisory Board had brought a profound depth of knowledge and accelerated the company’s efforts to address the global pandemic. Their goal is to prevent textiles from becoming a host surface for the deadly viruses and microorganisms and contribute to reducing both the speed and risk of its contamination as well as transmission.

Features of HeiQ’s Viroblock NPJ03:

  • It is a unique combination of vesicle and silver technologies designed in such a way that it can inhibit the growth as well as the persistence of viruses and bacteria.
  • The technology targets lipid-enveloped viruses including the coronaviruses by providing rapid virus deactivation and inhibiting the replication of viruses and bacteria.
  • It can be applied to a wide spectrum of textile surfaces such as face maks, medical gowns, curtains, drapes, air filters, etc.
  • It contains a highly-wash durable antimicrobial and odor-control textile technology that combines silver-based and bio-based materials.
  • Besides being effective against the coronaviruses, HeiQ Viroblock NPJ03 dramatically improved the reduction of virus infectivity against several types of influenza (H1N1, H5N1, H7N9) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

“HeiQ strives to help improve the lives of people by bringing breakthrough innovations to textiles. We have pushed hard to bring the HeiQ Viroblock technology to reality to assist at this time of urgent need for the society around the world,” Innovation Textiles quoted Carlo Centonze, HeiQ Group CEO.

A man wearing a facemask as a preventative measure following a coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan sits at a Hong Kong cruise terminal in February 2020
A man wearing a facemask as a preventative measure following a coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan sits at a Hong Kong cruise terminal in February 2020 AFP / Philip FONG
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