THE SCIENCE BEHIND AVATECH
Innovative, Long Lasting Protection Against Harmful Pathogens
Our antimicrobial fabric technology is the result of years of research and development in advanced materials science. By combining a powerful biocidal binding agent with an optional hydrophilic polymer, we have created a fabric treatment that offers enduring protection against a wide range of harmful microorganisms, including drug-resistant strains.
The Highly EffectiveBiocidal Binding Agent
The core of Avatech's antimicrobial technology is a siliceous quaternary ammonium compound, a breakthrough innovation in fabric protection. This compound combines two critical components:
Quaternary Ammonium Moiety: A positively charged nitrogen structure bonded to four organic groups. This component actively disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria and viruses, effectively killing them on contact.
Silicon Atom: The silicon base allows the compound to bond securely with fabric fibers through polymerization, even at low temperatures (as low as 60°C). This ensures that the antimicrobial layer remains durable and effective, even after repeated industrial wash cycles.
Enhanced Durability with Hydrophilic Polymer
To further improve the performance of our antimicrobial treatment, we offer the option of incorporating a hydrophilic polymer (like polyethylene glycol, or PEG). This enhancement provides two important benefit:
Even Coverage Across Fabrics
The polymer ensures that the biocidal agent is evenly distributed throughout the fabric, delivering consistent protection across every thread.Extra Protection Against Wear and Washing
Acting as a protective shield, the polymer strengthens the bond between the fabric and the biocidal agent, making the antimicrobial layer even more resistant to frequent washing and long-term use.
Proven Antimicrobial Effectiveness
Avatech’s technology has been rigorously tested against skin irritability and a variety of pathogens, including:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE)
Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Influenza A virus
SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19)
Antimicrobial Test Results
Skin Irritation Test Results
In laboratory tests, our treated fabrics eliminated 99.9% of these pathogens within 24 hours of contact, and maintained their effectiveness after 100+ washing cycles in healthcare-grade laundry conditions.
Durability Test Results
Backed by Science: Proven Antifungal Performance
Avatech fabrics have been rigorously tested by leading laboratories to ensure they provide exceptional protection against harmful fungi that can grow on fabrics. Here’s a breakdown of the fungi that were tested and how Avatech effectively stopped their growth.
ISO 13629-2:2014 Antifungal Test
Avatech reduced fungal growth by >90% after 48 hours, providing highly effective antifungal protection.
Candida albicans
A type of yeast that can cause infections in humans, especially in those with weakened immune systems. It is often responsible for yeast infections and can trigger skin irritations or respiratory issues if it grows on textiles.
Aspergillus niger
A common mold found in damp environments, such as bathrooms and kitchens. This mold can lead to respiratory infections, particularly in people with asthma or weakened immune systems.
AATCC 30 Antifungal Fabric Test
After 7 days of exposure to these fungi, there was no fungal growth observed on Avatech fabrics. The material remained free of both microscopic and visible fungal growth, ensuring long-term protection against mold and decay.
Chaetomium globosum
Known for its ability to grow on water-damaged materials, this fungus can lead to the deterioration of textiles, walls, and other surfaces. It can also release airborne spores that may cause allergic reactions or respiratory distress.
Penicillium varians
A mold commonly found in indoor environments, particularly in moist areas. It can cause respiratory issues and contribute to the breakdown and decay of fabrics over time.
Trichoderma virens
A fungus found in soil, often used as a biological control agent in agriculture. However, if it grows on fabrics or surfaces in homes, it can contribute to mold-related health issues.
Why Our Antimicrobial Fabric Technology Stands Out
A comparison of Avatech’s unique features and benefits to other antimicrobial treatments
Long-lasting Protection
Low-Temperature Application
Broad-Spectrum Efficacy
Non-Leaching Properties
Compatibility with Healthcare Laundry Processes
Customizable Application
AVATECH
The biocidal binding agent forms durable, wash-resistant bonds with the fabric fibers, ensuring long-lasting antimicrobial protection even after repeated washing and use
The siliceous quaternary ammonium compound can polymerize at low temperatures (60°C or higher), making it suitable for a wide range of fabric types, including those with synthetic fibers.
Our antimicrobial fabric technology has been proven effective against a wide range of mold, bacteria and viruses, including drug-resistant strains like MRSA and VRE
The biocidal agent is chemically bonded to the textile surface. This results in a non-leaching performance, which minimize the risk of skin irritation or environmental contamination
Our treated fabrics have been tested to withstand the rigorous laundry processes used in healthcare settings, maintaining their antimicrobial properties after 100 washing cycles
The optional hydrophilic polymer component allows for customizable application of the antimicrobial treatment, ensuring even distribution and enhanced durability on a variety of fabric types
OTHERS
Many antimicrobial treatments, such as those based on silver nanoparticles or triclosan, can lose effectiveness over time due to washing and wear
Some antimicrobial treatments require high-temperature application, which can limit their use on certain fabric types or blends
Some antimicrobial treatments may have limited efficacy against certain types of pathogens or may not be effective against drug-resistant strains
Some antimicrobial treatments, such as those based on heavy metals like copper or zinc, can leach from the fabric over time, potentially causing skin irritation or environmental concerns
Some antimicrobial treatments may not be compatible with the high-temperature, harsh detergents, and disinfectants used in healthcare laundry processes, leading to a loss of efficacy over time
Many antimicrobial treatments have a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not be optimal for all fabric types or applications
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Our antimicrobial treatment is not just a temporary fix. It's engineered to last, maintaining its effectiveness over 100 wash cycles. This durability means healthcare providers can trust that their textiles will remain a line of defense against pathogens day after day, wash after wash.
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Designed to work with a range of textile materials, Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) are generally non-corrosive and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including fabrics, without causing damage or discoloration. This makes them highly versatile for various applications in healthcare settings.
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Safety to both humans and environment is our top priority. By reducing leaching, the chances of causing irritation and disruption to the environment reduces. Its low energy consuming and environmentally friendly treatment process contributes to sustainability and carbon reduction.
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The technology is designed to be compatible with both cellulosic (e.g., cotton) and synthetic (e.g., polyester) fabrics, ensuring broad applicability. Additionally, the treatment maintains or improves the tactile and tear resistance of the textiles, which are critical factors for their continued use in healthcare settings
Successful Real-World Applications of Avatech
