Changing the face of facemasks

Covid-19 has created a shortage of anti-viral products such as sanitisers and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This is both a short-term issue -- to cope with a huge increase in demand -- and a long-term issue as the crisis has exposed the fragility of international supply chains.

Hybrisan has developed a biocidal electrospun nonwoven material than can be used as an alternative to current materials. The material can be used to make reusable, biocidal face masks that will improve safety of front-line workers and reduce the global shortage of face masks due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The aim of this project is to test and develop the nanofibre material for use in face masks, wound dressings and other uses. An InnovateUK grant will allow Hybrisan to rapidly develop and independently test the fabric for use in face mask applications.

Hybrisan intends to manufacture the materials in the UK while also setting up international partnerships to produce finished products such as face masks, and is already in discussions with suppliers such as 3M. The vision is to create a series of unique, IP protected materials that can be manufactured in the UK and deployed globally to create supply security for the UK while also establishing a Welsh business as a global leader in manufacturing a new generation of anti-microbial products.

The business is currently setting up in-house production facilities to enable UK-based material supply and is in discussions with partners for UK and worldwide production.

This grant will allow Hybrisan to accelerate product development, by working with world-leading design and development consultancy TTP to carry out design development, independent testing, prototyping and production planning.

We expect to develop the first prototypes within 3-4 months. Initial launch of the product is expected in Q3 2020, with full global production to start in early 2021\.

Hybrisan is a UK-based manufacturer of biocidal products that are effective against viruses, including Covid-19 as well as bacteria and other microbes. The unique liquid biocide product is safe to use and more effective than alcohol-based sanitiser. This product is already proven and is being sold to clients such as the NHS, and the company is rapidly expanding to meet demand.