Air Queen moves to supply its surgical-grade nano fibre face masks in the United Kingdom
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Since the onset of the Covid-19 global pandemic, the world has faced a constrained supply of high quality so-called ‘N95’ face masks. The term N95 refers to a filtration of at least 95% of airborne particles of a certain size, and it is widely considered the gold standard of face coverings to protect individuals against harmful pathogens and other contaminants.
With the broad relaxation of UK quarantine rules this weekend, there is an increased demand for face masks and face coverings which meet the twin requirements of being comfortable for all-day use, and being an effective pathogen barrier. Face coverings are already compulsory on UK public transport and they are expected to become ubiquitous, particularly in public places where social distancing cannot be maintained.
The effectiveness of the common disposable three-ply electrostatic masks falls over time as they absorb exhaled moisture, and become heavier and uncomfortable as a result. Leading South Korean manufacturer Toptec has developed the Air Queen masks using an ultra-lightweight ‘nano fibre’ material which suffers none of these problems.
The Air Queen nano masks provide extreme protection (in excess of 96% particle filtration) while simultaneously allowing for advanced breathability and comfort. Its advanced ergonomic design is not compromised by ethanol cleaning products and so the masks can be reused, a beneficial cost-saving feature. Compared to peer group manufacturers such as 3M, the Air Queen represents a quantum leap in technology and effectiveness as well as filtration and air flow. Each mask weighs less than four grams, less than a sheet of paper. The Air Queen is sized to fit adults; a model specifically for children will be available in the UK within weeks.
Air Queen has been selling its products successfully in the United States to retail and wholesale buyers including hospitals, state governments, labour unions, retail chains and e-commerce buyers, and is now rolling out its supply capability to Europe and the United Kingdom. For more information, or to place an order, visit www.air-queen.co.uk
About Air Queen FDA approval and European CE mark
The Air Queen mask is a FDA 510k approved surgical respirator (K172500) with a use indication as follows: “to be worn by operating room personnel during surgical procedures to protect both the surgical patient and the operating room personnel from transfer of microorganism, body fluids and particulate materials.” Therefore the mask provides the maximum protection while being used even in day-to-day activities. The Air Queen mask is not NIOSH-approved because of its ear loop design, however independent research carried out by Nelson Labs confirms that the Air Queen masks provide particle protection and air flow beyond the level afforded by N95 rated products. Wearers of nano fibre surgical masks, specifically Air Queen products, were found to have lower heart rates, lower micro-environment and skin surface temperatures than subjects who wore standard N95 masks while performing similar tasks. In Europe, the Air Queen nano masks are CE marked (EN:149:2001 + A1:2009) as an FFP2 NR mask.