Toray’s MAKSPEC® V Antiviral Textile Proves Effective in Combating COVID-19

Toray Industries, Inc., announced that its tests on samples of MAKSPEC® V have confirmed the effectiveness of that antiviral textile (see note 1) in reducing concentrations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The company developed this 100% polyester offering in March 2020. It delivers exceptional washability and comfort.

Toray used the JISL 1922 antiviral test for textile products. It exposed samples to COVID-19 and measured concentrations two hours later. As with earlier experimentation using the ATCC VR-1679 envelope strain, the company confirmed that the fabric reduced more than 99.9% of COVID-19 viruses on textiles. It obtained this same result even after 50 industrial washing cycles, underscoring the fabric’s solid antiviral performance.

To date, Toray has positioned MAKSPEC® V to reduce envelope- type virus. In view of the latest findings, the company will market this textile for customer service, nursing, and school uniforms for which demand to safeguard from COVID-19 is high. It also envisages expanding applications for this textile to also include sportswear, casual apparel, fashionwear, and children’s clothing.

Toray will draw on the textile processing technology it amassed in developing materials for uniforms, which demand exceptional functionality, to create textiles that provide outstanding performance and added value by combining comfort and safety, thus contributing to social progress.

The outline and results of this test are as follows:

Test overview
• Test methodology: JISL1922 antiviral test for textile products
• Virus: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
• Infection measurement technique: Plaque assay
• Material tested: One piece of 100% polyester fabric

2. Test results
• Two hours of testing reduced more than 99.9% of the virus on polyester fibers
• Same effect confirmed after 50 commercial washing cycles
Note: Findings from measurements with single piece of 100% MAKSPEC® V polyester fabrics do not guarantee performance of MAKSPEC® V

3. About MAKSPEC® V
(1) Product features
a. High antiviral performance (antiviral activity value at or exceeding 3.0)
SEK Mark certification acquired (see note 2)
b. Excellent commercial washing durability
c. Soft texture and dye fastness retained
(2) Technical overview
(a) Employs an antiviral agent with high affinity for polyester and reduces envelope strains (two hours of testing reduced more than 99.9% of viruses on polyester fibers).
(b) Unique processing technology that incorporates antiviral agents in polyester fibers (textile feels soft and is highly robust)
(3) Notes on product planning
• MAKSPEC® V cannot be used in masks or other items close to mouths and nostrils or in items for children up to 24months.
• MAKSPEC® V is not intended to treat or prevent any disease.
• MAKSPEC® V is not intended to inhibit the action of viruses.

Notes