TBM and yarn manufacturer Bioworks, have launched sustainable face masks produced on Shima Seiki knitting machines for both the domestic Japanese and international markets.
The Bio Face Cool and Bio Face Lite Cool washable face masks have been created to help resolve the shortage of face masks worldwide, while at the same time striving to improve the enzBvironmental footprint by using renewable biomass-based resources including PLA (polylactic acid).
The masks are designed to help to prevent spray from coughing and sneezing and can also reduce exposure to various allergens. They can be washed and reused around 30 times and have been reported to be antibacterial and mildly acidic (close to human skin) by a Japanese testing laboratory.
The masks are comfortable and fit the shape of a face, since they have a 3D knit shape that leaves room around the mouth. They can also be equipped with commercially available virus filters, cotton gauze, and similar accessories.
The biomass-based yarn, meanwhile, provides premium comfort for hot summer season when wearing a mask can be uncomfortable under high temperatures and humidity.
The production of Bio Face follows collaboration between TBM and Bioworks and flat knitting machine builder Shima Seiki. Together, the companies achieved a mask design that is comfortable and easily fits the shape of a face, by knitting masks three dimensionally on WHOLEGARMENT machines using the PLA yarns developed amongst the three parties.
