PROX™ Antiviral Fabric is tested effective against >99% SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) including both Delta & Omicron variants even after 60 washes by testing conducted at Microbe Investigations AG (MIS) in Switzerland

(X) FAQ

Coronavirus vs PROX™ Antiviral Technology

What is the science behind the antivirus mechanism?
The technology involves exploitation of the characteristics of the capsid layers of microorganisms, including viruses and bacterias. The development of a cationic textile surface through introduction of silver and titanium ions imitates the natural binding sites in living hosts.

PROX™ technology has leveraged the science to its advantage with its application in textile products. The techniques and condition of application was developed through a series of systematic study on optimization of dosages, processing parameters and fabric types.

The inactivation mechanism of viruses is based on the distortion of the protein capsid by adsorption of negatively charged glycoprotein layers to the positively charged surface, subsequently leading to the release of non-infectious RNA.

Tests have shown that the treated material maintains its properties without leaching or emission of volatile organic compounds. 

Does inactivate means kill?
 PROX™ antiviral technology is tested to be effective against viruses and bacteria. With partnership with Swiss company, HeiQ Materials AG, the antivirus efficacy tests also showed inactivation of other deadly viruses such as H1N1 (Human Influenza A), H5N1 (Avian Influenza A), 229E (Human Coronavirus), H7N9 (2013 Influenza A), RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and Mycobacterium terrae as well. Antivirus performance was >99.9% in all the cases. For more information, please visit the link shown below;

https://heiq.com/technologies/heiq-viroblock/

Note that since viruses are technically not “living” organisms outside of a host, thus they cannot be “killed”. They are inactivated and rendered harmless through the use of antivirus agents. 

How was it tested against Covid-19?
 The fundamental of the antiviral technology involves the presence of active positive charges on fabric, as binding sites for virus. Upon contact with fabric, the virus cells which are negatively charged, are neutralized, subsequently leading to rapid destruction of its glycoprotein layers. A known concentration of SARS-CoV-2 virus was contacted with the treated fabric followed by measurement of remaining infectious SARS-CoV-2 viruses, as per the ISO 18184 protocol. The treated fabric showed virus reduction of SARS-CoV-2 over 99.9% relative to the inoculum control. 

Is the technology safe and user-friendly?
 The technology is safe for both adult and children. Human biocompatibility testing demonstrated perfect skin compatibility and no harmful substance was released or emitted during dynamic airflow test.

 

Common queries about PROXMASK™

Why do face masks need antiviral treatment?
Bacteria and viruses, including coronavirus travel through infectious water droplets. The absence of antiviral feature in surgical masks and respirators such as N95, makes them susceptible to microbes to harbour in. Recent studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused the COVID-19 infection, can survive on disposal masks for days. This poses a great infection risk, as the microorganisms can pass through, transfer to your hand, or some other surface. If the mask were able to destroy the virus and other pathogens powerfully and continuously upon contact, such risk would be mitigated. 

How the ProXmask™ does protect against coronavirus?
ProXmask™ offers multi-layered protection to both the user as well as those around the user through its PROX™ antiviral textile technology. Click here for more details about the technology. 

Does the use of the ProXmask™ prevent COVID-19?
The textiles treated with PROX™ antiviral technology that are incorporated into ProXmask™ has been scientifically tested to neutralize 99.9% of SARS-CoV-2. This protection is sustained through multiple washes when used as recommended. However, the use of ProXmask™ does not substitute the need for good personal hygiene as recommended by applicable health authorities. One should take note that infection may occur at instances, when the virus may enter the respiratory tract through other means such as cross contamination through the concerned person’s hand or when mask is not worn. 

How much more effective is the ProXmask™ in protecting against coronavirus relative to a normal mask?
Apart from the excellent microfiltration capabilities on par with disposal masks in the market, ProXmask™ also offers additional protection by destroying >99.9% of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19). 

How safe is it to use a ProXmask™?
ProXmask™ has passed the flammability, carbon dioxide (CO2) content and breathing resistance test conducted at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Malaysia as per Europeans standards. A full biocompatibility testing, according to ISO 10993-1 was performed to exclude any potential safety issue. A human patch dermatological testing was similarly performed, which demonstrated a perfect skin compatibility. An extractable study under dynamic airflow conditions showed that absolutely no substance was released.

A full biocompatibility testing, according to ISO 10993-1 was performed to exclude any potential safety issue. A human patch dermatological testing was similarly performed, which demonstrated a perfect skin compatibility. An extractable study under dynamic airflow conditions showed that absolutely no substance was released. 

Is the ProXmask™ certified?
Click here for more info in Test Report certifications.

 

PROXMASK™ Usage and Care Instructions

How to wear the ProXmask™?
For optimal protection, the following instruction should be followed each time the face mask is worn.
1) Clean your hands before touching the mask.
2) Adjust the mask to fit your face without leaving gaps on the sides.
3) Make sure that the mask covers your mouth, nose and chin. 

How long can I use ProXmask™ without wash?
While you will always be the best judge for yourself, our masks are designed with comfort in mind for extended use throughout the day. 

How many ProXmask™ do I need?
One mask is adequate in most cases. We would recommend two masks if you cannot wait for the mask to dry after washing it. 

How to store the ProXmask™?
To prolong its use, store the mask in a clean and dry place and keep way from sunlight or high temperature environment. 

How to wash the ProXmask™?
1) Wash the mask before use.
2) Wash the mask after use for hygiene purpose.
3) Hand wash with powder detergent for 3-5 minutes.
4) Leave to dry.

• Do not use bleach.
• Do not iron.
• Do not apply alcohol-based solutions.
• Hand wash durability up to 60 times; machine wash durability up to 20 times. 

Precautions and Usage Limitations
• This face mask does not eliminate illness, disease or infection and is designed for general public use.
• This face mask serves for virus protection and bacteria filtration, not intended for medical application.
• This face mask does not supply oxygen. Do not use in oxygen deficient atmospheres.
• Do not use the face mask for occupational safety use against harmful chemicals, gases, vapors, oil aerosols, oil based particles or extremely high particulate concentration.
• Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the configuration as specified by the manufacturer.
• Follow fitting instructions carefully, filtration efficiency depends on proper fitting.
• Individuals with a compromised respiratory system, such as asthma or emphysema, should consult a physician and complete a medical evaluation prior to use.
• Not recommended for children below the age of 5.
• In case of discomfort or complication, please seek medical attention immediately.