In the Spring of 2020, Covid-19 suddenly changed our lives and the ways we interact with each other. However, over the past year or so, many new technologies were rapidly introduced to combat these challenges. SeedSprint member, NanoLayr (formerly Revolution Fibres), is at the forefront of this battle. They are protecting frontline workers through their innovative personal protective equipment (PPE) technology.   

NanoLayr Invests in PALAS Testing Machine to Fight the Spread of Covid-19 

NanoLayr is a New Zealand-based nanofiber company that we have featured previously on the blog. The company recently made a significant investment in a PALAS testing machine to enhance the development and performance of its filtration media. The PALAS PMFT 1000 testing rig is one of the world’s leading machines in testing masks for their ability to filter particles, bacteria, and viruses such as Covid-19. Over the course of the pandemic, PALAS has been providing many hospitals with the ability to test the protective masks they use. This effort has helped to contain the spread and protect frontline workers.  

Instantaneous Testing Improves Efficiency in Mask Production 

As many of us know, Covid-19 spreads easily from person to person. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, spreads more efficiently than influenza in current studies. Since it most commonly spreads through close contact, especially through respiratory droplets and through airborne transmission, authentic PPE levels are crucial to prevent the spread of the virus.

Ray Connor, NanoLayr’s CEO, says the PALAS testing machine is key to advancing the performance of its FilterLayr nanofibre filter media product. The FilterLayr filter media is used in face masks that meet and exceed N95 and N99 standards. “The PALAS enables us to test face masks to ensure they meet required standards and properly protect people and health workers who are on the frontline of the pandemic in New Zealand and around the world,” says Connor.

PALAS allows NanoLayr to test its filters instantly at required international standards. In the past, the company had to send the material overseas to be tested. The testing rig can evaluate respiratory masks more effectively than standard testing with an exact analysis of filter mask efficiency for SARS-CoV-2 (size approx. 120 nm up to 160 nm). When the products are ready to take to market, they are sent to a third-party testing lab for certification.  

Nanofibre filters are the future of COVID-19 Protection Equipment 

The PALAS testing machine has played an instrumental role in the advancement of filter media with added functionality, including anti-microbial properties. The diameters of nanofibre range from 10-300 nanometres, which is 10-100 times smaller than conventional melt-blown microfibres.

Dr. Gareth Beckermann, Technical Manager at NanoLayr, says “Nanofiber filter media is very effective in protecting against viruses such as Covid, bacteria and other toxic particles which can be just 100 nanometres. Our nanofibre filter media can trap 99% of microscopic particles such as spores, allergens, and bacteria.”

Nanofiber is also recognized as a more breathable fabric available for filter media. This feature makes it a more comfortable and effective way to protect against Covid-19.

NanoLayr supplies filtration media to multiple overseas face mask manufacturers, such as HALO in the US. They also supply media to HVAC systems, including leading New Zealand home solutions company HRV. The PALAS machine is one of the many ways NanoLayr is working to meet high international demand for their products.  

Companies like NanoLayr are bringing increasingly effective products to market to protect individuals from Covid-19. As we all adjust to this virus, even more solutions will be introduced. Keep an eye out for more posts from SeedSprint on emerging technologies!