Solvay launches products to help prevent Covid spread

SOLVAY has recently launched two new products that could help prevent the spread of coronavirus – a long-lasting disinfection technology and an antiviral and antibacterial polyamide textile.

The products are expected to keep bacteria and viruses from many surfaces and avoid cross-contamination.

Actizone, Solvay’s new long-lasting antimicrobial technology, employs antimicrobial actives to form a protective film on surfaces which kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses and offers 24-hour antimicrobial protection. This includes the flu and the coronavirus. The antimicrobial formulations remain effective even when surfaces are repeatedly contaminated or eroded by continued contact. The technology is effective on multiple surfaces, including laminate, polycarbonate, glass, and steel.

The newly-developed polyamide polymer and yarn Amni Virus-Bac OFF incorporates antiviral and antimicrobial agents, helping to prevent contamination of fabric by a wide range of diseases, says Solvay. It can be used for producing knits and fabrics for several applications, such as car and bus seat covers, masks, clothing, and protectors. According to Solvay the antiviral and antibacterial action remains throughout the textile’s lifetime and offers the same effectiveness after numerous washes. Solvay does not give a specific figure.

The company is currently in talks with customers, suppliers, and public authorities in Europe and in North and South America about possible applications of both technologies.

According to Solvay Group CEO Ilham Kadri, since the pandemic began the company has worked to adapt its products and develop new ones. Additionally, it has been active in manufacturing “ventilators in respirators, ingredients used in Covid tests or in a potential vaccine, flavours used in antitussive drugs, plastics used to make protective face shields as well as H₂O₂ disinfectant for cleaning purposes.”