54579Virucidal Breathing Apparatus Filters (VBAF)ClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKThe Virucidal Breathing Apparatus Filters (VBAF) project will demonstrate proof of concept for a virucidal respirator filter cartridge insert, that will inactivate, "kill" airborne Coronavirus cells. Viral filtration efficiency (VFE) and bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE) measure the effectiveness of filter respirators against viruses and bacteria. Manufacturers state that although their product tests demonstrated \>99.9% results, the results "do not constitute a guarantee" and describe their PPE as "only designed to filter and not to kill viruses." Inactivation of virus cells MUST be incorporated as an essential feature of respirator filter cartridges. Our respirator cartridge inserts will be designed to remain viable for at least 12 hours i.e. during a single shift, to reduce consumables cost along with the risk of cross-contamination from frequent cartridge changes. Improving the safety of respiratory PPE for 1st responders and frontline healthcare workers, is critical to safeguarding the ability of the NHS to provide effective care during the COVID-19 crisis. Furthermore, as our manufacturing capacity is scaled up, we will seek to incorporate our growing biochar supply chain as a secure source of raw material used for manufacturing virucidal filters in high volume applications. Future product development will see our virucidal filters incorporated in face masks as well as respirators granting them superior safety performance to the incumbent N95 rated products which are "only designed to filter and not to kill viruses."