Aimplas – a Spanish Plastics Technology Centre based in Valencia – is taking part in the Dotmask Project led by speciality chemical manufacturer Lamberti. The aim of the project is to develop new antimicrobial coatings and plastics taken from plant extracts using nanotechnology for personal protective equipment (PPE).
The initiative also includes the participation of the Medical Research Institute of La Fe Hospital in Valencia, biotech company ADM Biopolis and mask manufacturer Airnatech.
During the project, materials with antibacterial and viricidal capacity are being developed to respond to the need to reduce infection from pathogens such as Covid-19, which are often transmitted by air. Coatings designed to function as a passive protective measure use inorganic, metal-based additives, but these have disadvantages and may be potentially toxic.
