Invention Title:

COATED SUBSTRATES AND ARTICLES WITH ANTI-VIRAL PROPERTIES, AND FABRICATION PROCESSES

Publication number:

US20250017294

Publication date:

2025-01-16

Section:

Human necessities

Class:

A41D13/1192

Inventors:

Andrew R. Barron Swansea, Great Britain (UK)

Sajad Kiani Swansea, Great Britain (UK)

Wafaa AL-SHATTY London, Great Britain (UK)

Donald A. HILL London, Great Britain (UK)

Andrius STANULIS Swansea, Great Britain (UK)

Lee TRETHEWAY Newcastle Under Lyme, Great Britain (UK)

Shirin ALEXANDER London, Great Britain (UK)

Steve WINSTON London, Great Britain (UK)

lain POWNER Newcastle Under Lyme, Great Britain (UK)

Applicant:

FXI INC. LIMITED London, Great Britain (UK)

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application discusses coated substrates with anti-viral properties, articles incorporating these substrates, and the methods for their fabrication. These substrates are lightweight, with a weight of about 120 g/m² or less, and incorporate mineral or iron oxide particles. They are designed to maintain a breathing resistance of approximately 6 mbar or less, ensuring ease of use in protective equipment like masks.

Background

The invention addresses the challenge of viral transmission through air, a significant concern heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conventional personal protective equipment (PPE) often fails to effectively block virus particles while maintaining breathability. Current solutions like N95 masks are costly and not reusable, posing difficulties for individuals with respiratory conditions. There's a need for improved materials that offer enhanced protection against viruses without compromising comfort.

Summary of Invention

The disclosed coated substrates are made from woven or non-woven fabrics integrated with mineral and iron oxide particles. These particles may be functionalized to enhance their properties. The substrates maintain low breathing resistance while effectively trapping viruses. The invention includes processes for producing these substrates, involving drying or curing steps to ensure durability and functionality.

Detailed Description

The coated substrates are designed to trap viruses while allowing air to pass through, overcoming limitations of traditional materials. The substrates can be used in various applications like wearable garments and air filters. They exhibit improved virus rejection rates, with non-woven fabrics achieving up to 75% rejection when treated with the described particles. The materials are washable and reusable, offering a cost-effective solution for viral protection.

Applications

The invention's applications include filters, face masks, and other protective materials that immobilize virus particles. The substrates can be woven, non-woven, or melt-blown materials, potentially forming multi-layered laminates. These coated substrates act as barriers to prevent virus transmission, either from individuals to the environment or vice versa. Functionalization of particles enhances their effectiveness in trapping viruses.