Porcher Industries, a leading firm in high-performance thermoplastic technical and composite textiles, has launched the development of a technical solution for the production of reusable masks certified by the DGA UNS-1.

A pioneer in high-performance thermoplastic composites and technical textiles, Porcher Industries has adapted part of their factory capacity for the mass production of a technical solution specially designed for producing masks. Started in early April, production capacity has already reached one million masks per week.

Porcher Industries’ teams rose to the occasion, quickly meeting the needs of this new demand by developing a combination of technical materials optimised for non-medical masks. The new hydrophobic filter material has obtained UNS-1 certification from the DGA.

According to the company, masks made with this complex material are washable at 60-deg and can be reused 10 times if conditions for use are respected. “Quick drying, they do not lose their shape. They are intended for non-medical purposes to prevent the projection of droplets. They can be used by professionals in contact with the public, such as the police and checkout personnel.

“We wish to pay tribute to all our teams, particularly production and R&D, which have adapted our industrial activity to help us cope with the current emergency. They have been extremely reactive and adapted quickly and smoothly to new requirements,” applauded André Genton, CEO of Porcher Industries.

Results of DGA protocol for Porcher Industries filter material designed for production of AFNOR protective masks Spec. S7c6-001:2020 UNS-1 for non-medical purposes: filtration: 97 per cent for 3 microns and 93 per cent for 1 micron; breathability: 139L.m-2.s-1; performance criteria: AFNOR SPEC S76-001 (DGA report no.: RP/20-2307/DGA MNRBC/2000305/NP); reusable and washable mask at 60-degC in household conditions; quick-drying (air) hydrophobic material; and dimensional stability.

With 2,000 employees across three continents, Europe, China, US and Brazil, Porcher Industries designs produces innovative materials tailored to specific use in the aeronautics, defence, automotive, construction, industry, sports and leisure sectors.

Recognised worldwide as pioneer in its sector, Porcher Industries works with clients in advance, helping their R&D departments to anticipate technological developments for lightweight, high-performance and comfortable textiles.

In 2018, Porcher Industries generated 335 million euros in revenue and have invested more than 100 million euros over the last three years.