Technical Textiles Are Helping Save Lives During COVID-19
September 29, 2020 As the transmittal of the coronavirus occurs by infected persons even without symptoms, face coverings play a vital role in containing the spread.
Recently, there has been a flurry of research activities on the type of face coverings, materials, design and so forth. While there is no one perfect model or type of face coverings, it is important that we use them based on the guidelines established by agencies such as the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“As a survivor of the deadly coronavirus infection along with my son, I request all to wear a mask and maintain at least six feet distance in public places to avoid the virus infection,” stated Amarashish Phanse of Ahmedabad, India.
I first met Mr. Phanse in one of my technical textiles awareness events in India over a decade ago and have maintained close connection with him to develop the field. He has been in the technical textiles sector and has been a great support in my research and outreach efforts in the nonwovens and technical textiles field. It is heartening that Mr. Phanse took time to convey the importance of safety measures in fight against the virus amidst his recovery.
It is becoming clear that even with the availability of a vaccine, good public health measures such as the use of face coverings may be needed. “There is increasing evidence that masks help prevent people who have COVID-19, including those without symptoms, from spreading SARS-CoV-2 to others,” stated Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC in a recent testimony to a United States Senate panel.
Speaking from his own grueling experience in the fight against the virus, Mr. Phanse stated, “Having worked with textiles and technical textiles industry closely for over a decade, I can now realize the immense contribution made by its fiber to the fashion value chain in developing user friendly and functional protective textiles.”
The advanced textiles sector has a renewed purpose now to develop life-saving products at a competitive price. Developed economies such as the United States has to revamp its R&D and manufacturing sectors that will focus on human health and environmental aspects. Research into comfortable face masks with enhanced protection is a tall order and well worth investing. Similarly, cost effective sustainable products that find applications ranging from household items to space crafts will be needed. The Indian government has created a National Mission on Technical Textiles to grow the field.
I have been articulating the use of natural fibers like cotton and coarse wool in advanced products for more than two decades. In close association with people like Mr. Phanse, collaborative programs developed between India and the United States in the nonwovens and technical textiles sectors have led to awareness creation and business relationships. The current COVID-19 crisis has shined a genuine spotlight on the positive aspects of cotton as a life saver and may open pathways towards exploring new materials for value-added applications.
It has become clear that apart from functionalities, the cost of products plays a very vital role in the market acceptance of products. So, examining the economic aspects of new products and market surveys to analyze the need must be undertaken simultaneously while conducting R&D. The next phase of R&D should involve scientists, economists and marketing professionals working towards new product development such as PPE.
Let us practice safety and wish speedy recovery of all those who have been afflicted by the virus. Mask on and stay positive!
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