The emergence of the SARS CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, has brought to the forefront another beneficial aspect of plastics — antimicrobial and antiviral additives that can help protect humans. Tosaf, a member of the Ravago Group, announced that it has developed an antimicrobial, antiviral additive for polyolefin nonwoven fabrics and films. The new additive will be used in the production of disposable face masks, protective apparel, and similar medical products.

While it is recommended that many people, including healthcare workers and those vulnerable to the virus, wear face masks, the coverings do not fully protect individuals. Block viral particles that do not penetrate the mask’s barrier can remain on its surface and infect individuals upon contact and disposal, explained Tosaf.

Most protective masks are made of several layers, and Tosaf recommends that manufacturers apply the additive when producing the outer layer of the mask for the most cost-effective and efficient result. This will destroy viral particles that land on the outside surface of the mask, eliminating danger to its user. If the mask user is already carrying the virus, the applied additive will kill viral particles that reach the outer layer from the inside, protecting others who may come in contact or be in proximity.

The Antiviral, Antimicrobials Project was led by a three-person team in Tosaf’s R&D Division, based out of the company’s plant in Alon Tavor, Israel, one of the company’s 15 production sites located throughout the world.

“Tosaf is one of 35 companies among 750 applicants that were chosen by the Israel Innovation Authority and granted funds to develop solutions for the global fight against COVID-19,” said Dr. Evgeni Zelikman, Chief Innovation Scientist for Tosaf. “Our extensive knowledge and experience in product innovation accumulated over decades of developing in-house solutions for thousands of clients worldwide, puts us in a prime position to tackle this challenge. We were able to respond quickly and come up with an effective and cost-efficient solution to further protect the global population from COVID-19. The opportunity to contribute is a great honor.”

Tosaf serves the packaging, medical, agriculture, automotive, building and construction, home, sporting goods, and leisure markets.

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