Tekna’s copper nanopowder as an antiviral agent in personal protective equipment to combat COVID-19

28 October 2020 - Tekna has announced a collaboration with the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) to develop an antibacterial and antiviral fabric treatment. Tekna will supply its copper nanopowder, manufactured with its 30-year proven plasma technology. Furthermore, Tekna will bring cutting-edge expertise to develop copper-based antiviral solutions and related products against SARS-CoV-2.

“The copper nanoparticles produced by Tekna over the past several years will be incorporated into the fabrics used for personal protective equipment and other sanitary textile applications to attack and kill viruses, including SARS-CoV-2,” says Arina van Oost, VP Corporate and Strategic Development.

Copper has been proven to be one of the most efficient antiviral materials against SARS-CoV-2. It is reported that the virus remains viable for less than 4 hours on copper, as compared to many days on plastic and stainless-steel surfaces. Several studies have also demonstrated that antibacterial copper coatings are even more efficient when made with copper nanoparticles.

“We’re glad to be part of this initiative aiming to provide textiles with greater levels of protection for front-line health workers and contribute to the worldwide efforts to mitigate the global pandemic,” says Luc Dionne, CEO at Tekna.

About Tekna
Tekna is a subsidiary of Arendals Fossekompani ASA (AFK.OL) whose headquarters is located in Sherbrooke, Canada. The company operates manufacturing centres in Canada and France, as well as sales and distribution offices in China, India, and South Korea.

As a leader in the advanced materials industry, Tekna develops and produces high-purity metal powders for various applications such as 3D printing and microelectronics, as well as optimized induction plasma systems for industrial research and production. Building on 30 years of delivering excellence, Tekna is a global player recognized for its quality products and commitment to a multinational base of clients, who are leaders in their respective markets.