Nanotextile, Volvo Car Malaysia launch antimicrobial face masks

The face mask is incorporated with Batik Tekap pattern.

Nanotextile has teamed up with Volvo Car Malaysia in launching an antimicrobial reusable face mask as part of the companies’ sustainability efforts, Volvo Car Malaysia announced.

The face mask is incorporated with Batik Tekap pattern, and is made of 100% cotton. It is washable, water-repellent, and allows for bacterial and viral protection.

“Batik has always been a pride of our country and we at Volvo Car Malaysia do recognize and embrace local arts and culture,” Volvo Car Malaysia managing director Nalin Jain said.

The mask added five more layers of protection using PM 2.5 filter, which is tested to be 90% effective in viral particle filtration. It will keep the wearer protected and comfortable even though the mask is worn for a long time.

Whilst nanotechnology still faces some challenges in the textile industry, Nalin believes that “with more R&D put into it, nanotechnology will be the answer to sustainable textiles.”

“Nanotechnology supports the movement in the processing part. It provides the technology that adds value and quality to the fabrics, working toward a single vision; a path contributing to sustainability,” Nanotextile chief executive officer Thomas Ong said.

The project also aims to help single mothers whilst engaging with trained vocational graduates from GIATMARA and local artisans to help them earn a sustainable living during the pandemic.