Mitsui Chemicals to develop reusable 3D-printed mask
May 15, 2020 - Japan
Mitsui Chemicals is collaborating with Nagoya University and Friend Microbe, a spinoff venture from Nagoya University to develop a new, reusable 3D-printed mask. The mask filters out viral particles and can be reused. The mask has a reusable body and a disposable filter. Mitsui Chemicals is providing the nonwoven disposable filter, which removes viruses.
Professor Hori Katsutoshi of the Graduate School of Engineering at Nagoya University has produced the mask body using a 3D printer and is investigating enzyme preparations and various other antiviral agents that could be applied to it. Plans are to produce a mask which is designed to give comfort as well as ensure outstanding protection against viruses.
The nonwoven fabric is produced at Mitsui Chemicals’ plants in Nagoya and Yokkaichi. Wholly owned subsidiary Sunrex Industry is meeting strong demand from existing customers thanks to expanded production facilities for the meltblown nonwovens used in masks, which went online in January 2020.
Professor Hori Katsutoshi of the Graduate School of Engineering at Nagoya University has produced the mask body using a 3D printer and is investigating enzyme preparations and various other antiviral agents that could be applied to it. Plans are to produce a mask which is designed to give comfort as well as ensure outstanding protection against viruses.
The nonwoven fabric is produced at Mitsui Chemicals’ plants in Nagoya and Yokkaichi. Wholly owned subsidiary Sunrex Industry is meeting strong demand from existing customers thanks to expanded production facilities for the meltblown nonwovens used in masks, which went online in January 2020.