Antiviral Efficacy Testing of a Rechargeable Textile

Area of Science:

• Textile Science
• Virology
• Materials Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for effective personal protective equipment (PPE) to curb viral transmission.
• Human coronaviruses and influenza viruses present significant public health challenges due to their varied transmission routes.
• UMF Corporation developed Micrillon, a novel antiviral textile technology designed to be durable, chemical-free, and effective against viruses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antiviral efficacy of Micrillon-treated textiles against Human Coronavirus OC43 and H1N1 Influenza A virus.
• To assess the performance of Micrillon in various textile formats, including gloves, fabrics, and fibers.
• To determine the effectiveness of Micrillon technology in reducing viral load on treated materials over different contact times.

Main Methods:

• Testing was conducted according to ISO Standard 18184:2019.
• Micrillon textiles were challenged with Human Coronavirus OC43 and H1N1 Influenza A virus.
• Antiviral efficacy was quantified using Median Tissue Culture Infectious Dose (TCID50) assays on relevant cell lines (MDCK and HCT-8).

Main Results:

• Micrillon gloves achieved high antiviral efficacy, reducing H1N1 by 99.88% and OC43 by 99.67% within 120 minutes.
• Rolled Micrillon fabrics demonstrated strong efficacy, with 99.42% reduction against H1N1 at 30 minutes and over 97% against OC43 at all tested time points.
• Bundled Micrillon fibers showed substantial antiviral activity, achieving 99.17% reduction against H1N1 at 120 minutes and over 98% against OC43 across all time points.

Conclusions:

• Micrillon technology effectively inhibits viral activity on textiles, including gloves, fabrics, and fibers, against both Human Coronavirus and Influenza.
• The technology presents a reusable and sustainable alternative to conventional PPE, minimizing environmental impact and reducing reliance on harmful chemicals.
• Micrillon offers a promising solution for enhanced protection in healthcare and hospitality sectors, contributing to reduced infection risks with environmental consciousness.