Authors
Leader: Łukasiewicz Research Network – Łódź Institute of Technology
Consortium members:
- Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals
- Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes
- Silesian University of Technology, Biotechnology Center
- Iskierka Sp. z o. o.
Corresponding persons:
Małgorzata Cieślak, Łukasiewicz Research Network – Łódź Institute of Technology, malgorzata.cieslak@lit.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
Andrzej Hudecki, Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals, andrzej.hudecki@imn.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
Ewa Langer, Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, ewa.langer@impib.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
Aim of the project
The aim of this interdisciplinary ongoing project is to develop new functional solutions to protect soldiers during epidemiological threats. Main goal of the research is to create a personalized bioactive camouflage mask, with an innovative system for easy and safe replacement of disposable bioactive fibrous filters, as well as to design and manufacture reusable gloves and balaclavas using digital technology. Simultaneously with research on the development of new functional accessories, an analysis of the impact of pandemic threat on the operational readiness of the military is being carried out.
Short description of the problem addressed by this project
The problem which CoVTex project addresses is providing the military with a new generation of bioactive protective equipment intended for the Polish Armed Forces. This requires the design of masks made of bioactive polymers via 3D printing and new filtering systems containing targeted modifiers with antiviral properties against coronavirus and antibacterial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains. The next challenge is to develop new camouflage coatings that are compatible with the mask polymer and exhibit bioactive effects. The research program also concerns the design of new gloves and balaclavas using digital technologies. These technologies will allow for enhanced customization and fitting, ensuring maximum comfort and functionality for the users. The integration of smart materials into these new designs will provide added protection and functionality in epidemic conditions.
Main results and achievements
New types of bioactive modifiers and their application methods in textile structures, polymers, and camouflage coatings have been recently developed.
Biological tests have shown that the new materials counteract the coronavirus and bacteria while not exhibiting any toxic or irritating effects.
The new textile structures have successfully passed breathing impairment tests, conducted to ensure that the new filter materials and accessories do not hinder the soldiers’ ability to breathe properly.
We have produced model masks and gloves that are being subjected to further testing.
Conclusion
The military is fully committed to carry out a wide range of activities aimed at prevention of the transmission of the coronavirus and effectively mitigating its impact in accordance with their designated responsibilities.
New materials and accessories have been specially designed for the Polish Armed Forces, featuring approved antiviral and antibacterial properties to guarantee the effectiveness of masks, filters, gloves, and balaclavas.
These new solutions will improve protection against biological threats and have a positive impact on soldiers’ health and the operational readiness of the military, not only during epidemics or pandemics.
Acknowledgements
Project CoVTex was financed from the state budget, by the National Center for Research and Development, under the SZAFIR state defense and security program. Project number DOB-SZAFIR/02/B/004/02/2021.
We want to express our gratitude to all the project participants for their valuable contributions.
