HeiQ launches high-tech mask featuring ground-breaking copper technology shown to deactivate the COVID-19 virus in five minutes

Global leader in textile and materials innovation, HeiQ, launches HeiQ MetalliQ, a futuristic-looking, high-tech surgical mask that destroys all viruses and bacteria tested, up to 100% efficacy.

HeiQ MetalliQdoesn't only lookmetallic. The mask with a patented design actually contains an ultra-thin pure copper coating applied via a high-tech vapor deposition process, called HeiQ MetalliX,whichconvertsa minute amount of copper into vapour, allowing it to be depositedevenly to surround each fibre.HeiQ MetalliXis a patent-pending technology, created by HeiQ'sinnovation partner,Australian materials technologycompany, Xefco.Studies conducted by thePeter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity in Melbourne, Australia (Doherty Institute)showedthat fabrics treated by the HeiQ MetalliXtechnology significantly deactivatedthe infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus (the virus that causes COVID-19) in as little as 5 minutes.

The testing protocol simulated the real-life interaction of aerosol droplets contaminating textile products such as face masks. Each sample was exposed to a high loading of SARS-CoV-2 followed by5,15 and30minutesincubation at room temperaturebefore the amount of remaining infectious SARS-CoV-2 viruses was measured.The fabric samplestreated with HeiQ MetalliXindicated a virus reduction of over 97.79% in five minutes, 99.95% in 15 minutes and over 99.99% in 30 minutes, relative to the inoculum control.

'Our team of experts continue their vital work to minimize the impact of the novel coronavirus.'Dr Julie McAuley, Senior Research Officerat the Doherty Institute, stated. 'Testing the ability of different surface treatments to reduce infectivity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is one way that our research can help provide insights towards helping to stop the spread of COVID-19', Dr McAuley added.

Copper is a naturally occurring element, present in the earth's crust, soil, oceans, lakesand rivers. Itis also a trace element that occurs naturally in all humans, plants and animals.The antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal propertiesof copper has been known for centuriesand have been demonstrated by many laboratory studies.HeiQ MetalliXtreated materials release copper ions which deactivatevirusesand bacteria.Treated materials have also been tested to kill 100% of Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae and deactivate 99.95% of H1N1virus and 99.9% of Human Coronavirus 229E.

Made in EU, HeiQ MetalliQis manufactured in HeiQ Medica in Spain where HeiQ also conducts R&D activities for medical devices.Throughout the development of the HeiQ MetalliXtechnology, Xefcoworked closely with long-standing research partner the Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) at Deakin University as part of the world-class ARC Research Hub for Future Fibres, of which HeiQis also a member.

'You can pretty much 'heiq' everything to add additional functions to an every-day product. This time we up our game once again in antiviral protection, with an upgraded and premium appearance. Spring is calling. As we emerge from lock-down we want to be extra protected and protect the others. HeiQ MetalliQ is designed exactly to provide that extra level of confidence. Further, it gives an edgy look, making it an improved alternative to surgical masks in many ways,'says Carlo Centonze, co-founder and CEO of HeiQ Group.

HeiQ MetalliX efficacy data

About Xefco™

Xefcois an Australian-owned company that creates innovative textile and coating technologies. Leveraging a global network of research partners, Xefcodevelops advanced manufacturing solutions and applies cutting edge materials science with a focus on functional improvements, sustainable manufacturing and reduced resource consumption. Incorporated in 2018, Xefco'stechnologies are now used by some of the world's leading technical apparel and fashion brands, providing proven functional benefits, enhanced performance, comfort and protection with reduced environmental impact. Xefcocontinues to expand its technology portfolio with a vision to create a more sustainable future for the textile and garment industries.
www.xefco.com

About the Doherty Institute

Findingsolutionsto prevent, treat and cure infectious diseases and understanding the complexities of microbes and the immune system requires innovative approaches and concentrated effort. This is why the University of Melbourne- a world leader in education, teaching and research excellence - and The Royal Melbourne Hospital- an internationally renowned institution providing outstanding care, research and learning - partnered to create the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity (Doherty Institute); a centreof excellence where leading scientists and clinicians collaborate to improve human health globally. www.doherty.edu.au

About Deakin University

The Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) is a leading materials science research institute at Deakin University, Australia. With about 300 academics and HDR researchers, IFM's vision is to lead and inspire innovations in materials science and engineering that have a transformational benefit to society. Established in 1974, Deakin is one of Australia's most progressive and agile universities, leading in the innovative use of digital technologies and online learning, and blending this capability across its distinctive campus precincts in Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool. Deakin has achieved a balance of high-quality research with an education experience that is consistently rated as one of the best in the country. Ranked among the Top 1 per cent of universities in the world, Deakin's collaborations emphasisemutually beneficial partnerships and real-world impact in areas of high national priority, including health and wellbeing, smarter technologies, sustainability, advancing society and culture, and building safe and secure communities.
www.deakin.edu.au

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