The SonoMask from Israeli startup Sonovia has been shown 99.34% effective in neutralizing the SARS-COV2 virus within just 30 minutes of exposure in tests conducted by the ATCC Testing Laboratory, the company announced on Saturday.
According to Sonovia, the SonoMask mask maintains its protective properties through more than 55 industrial wash cycles, eliminating the need to frequently replace masks or filters and making it a far more environmentally-friendly PPE solution than traditional disposable gear.
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The patented technology from Sonovia is based on a process called cavitation, which involves using specialized machinery to emit sound waves that infuse proprietary chemical formulations into the woven fibers of textiles.
Sonovia is in the process of integrating its anti-bacterial fabric in the sports clothing manufactured by Israeli clothier Delta, three Israeli hospitals are evaluating the company's fabrics for their bedding and uniforms.
CEO Joshua Hershcovici called the latest test results "outstanding" and said they were the result of several months of work.
"We can now assure the public that the SonoMask works continuously and rapidly to neutralize the spread of COVID-19," Hershcovici said.
Sonovia CTO Liat Goldhammer said the startup envisioned its technology "transforming everyday life, implemented in all the textiles that surround us, from the clothes we wear to the textiles in our home, and of course as a protective measure in workplaces and medical institutions."
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