Facemask made from anti-microbial polymer protects against H1N1
A facemask treated with an antimicrobial polymer that is claimed to be effective against H1N1 influenza has been launched by US company Crosstex. Crosstex's Biosafe-treated Ultra Sensitive facemasks are also said to reduce micro-organisms such as MRSA, VRE, and Staph immediately upon contact.
“The facemasks serve as the first line of defence against airborne particles by trapping them in the filter media,” said Gary Steinberg, chief executive of Crosstex. “However, live micro-organisms can continue to live on the mask surface. Our new facemasks enhance the functionality of the mask by actually killing the harmful micro-organisms, reducing the cross-contamination risk from touching the mask itself, and creating a safer environment upon disposal of the mask.”
The Biosafe treatment additive, manufactured by Pittsburgh-based Biosafe has been approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency. It chemically binds to the outer mask surface creating a long-lasting shield against microbial contamination. The mask has also passed USP/ISO biocompatibility tests normally required for medical device materials.
"In the simplest terms, Biosafe’s HM4100 is better, faster, and less costly as an antimicrobial additive. It provides protection for the life of the product and because of the way it works it does not promote adaptive organisms or 'superbugs',” said Max Fedor, chief executive of Biosafe. Within the US, the sale of facemasks treated with Biosafe for medical applications is subject to a 510(k) clearance by the US Food and Drug Administration. Crosstex is awaiting publication of the latest revision of the FDA Guidance Document pertaining to antimicrobial treatments of medical devices prior to the filing of its application. The company has also submitted an application to the EPA covering the sale of treated masks in the US for non-medical applications. www.biosafe.com www.crosstex.com
