New Coatings for PPE Using Chitosan

New Coatings for PPE Using Chitosan from Crab Shells

Chitosan is derived from the natural fibre chitin, a natural structural polymer found in species as diverse as fungi, insects, and shellfish. Pennotec has a platform Industrial Biotechnology process for the sustainable production of chitosans, which was developed from the original iCrab process.

Chitosans have natural anti-microbial properties, making them excellent for preservative applications. Certain chitosans also have excellent film-forming characteristics. Chitosans have also been shown to interact with cotton fabric in a way which enhances dye fixation of textiles.

With the support of Innovate UK, Pennotec worked with the BioComposites Centre of Bangor University to exploit these properties and enhance the anti-microbial efficacy of chitosans. This was achieved through modification of Pennotec’s chitosans to provide a virucidal effect which has the potential to destroy a broad spectrum of viruses on contact, including the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) coronavirus.

Pennotec also worked with Cardiff University Medical School to evaluate textiles, including PPE, coated with modified chitosans, against the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) coronavirus. This important work is supported through the Welsh Government’s Accelerate programme, which is aimed at building links between industry, academia and medical experts to bring new, exciting innovations to market.