THE SCIENCE BEHIND AVATECH: Advanced Biocidal Fabric Technology
Avatech is a proprietary antimicrobial textile technology developed through advanced materials science. Unlike transient surface coatings, Avatech utilizes a Siliceous Quaternary Ammonium Compound that chemically bonds to fabric fibers. This creates a permanent, non-leaching shield capable of eliminating 99.9% of pathogens—including drug-resistant strains—while withstanding over 100 cycles of industrial laundering.
OThe efficacy of Avatech relies on a dual-component molecular structure that polymerizes with textile fibers at temperatures as low as 60°C. By combining a powerful biocidal binding agent with an optional hydrophilic polymer, we have created a fabric treatment that offers enduring protection against a wide range of harmful microorganisms, including drug-resistant strains.
Core Mechanism: How the Technology Works
The Biocidal Engine (Quaternary Ammonium Moiety)
The core of Avatech's antimicrobial technology is a siliceous quaternary ammonium compound, a breakthrough innovation in fabric protection. This compound combines two critical components:
The Biocidal Engine (Quaternary Ammonium Moiety): A positively charged nitrogen structure acts as the “sword”. Because cell membranes of bacteria and viruses are negatively charged, this component attracts pathogens and physically disrupts their cell walls upon contact, causing immediate lysis (cell death).
The Anchor (Silicon Atom): This polymerization ensures the antimicrobial layer does not wash off, distinguishing Avatech from traditional silver-ion or leaching treatments.
Enhanced Durability with Hydrophilic Polymer
To further improve the performance of our antimicrobial treatment, we incorporate a hydrophilic polymer (such as polyethylene glycol, or PEG) to:
Ensure Even Coverage Across Fabrics
The polymer ensures uniform distribution of the biocidal agent across the weave, delivering consistent protection across every thread.Create Extra Protection Against Wear and Washing
Acting as a protective matrix, the polymer strengthens the bond between the fabric and the biocidal agent, improving abrasion resistance and wash durability.
Validated Pathogen Contorl & Efficacy Data
Avatech’s technology has been rigorously tested by independent laboratories against a braod spectrum of microorganisms.
Bacterial & Viral Efficacy (Log 3 Reduction / 99.9%)
Tests confirm rapid elimination of the following pathogens within 24 hours:
Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE)
Gram-Negative Bacteria: Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae
Viruses: SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), Influenza A
Antifungal Performance (Standard: ISO 13629-2:2014)
Avatech inhibits fungal growth by >90% after 48 hours, preventing mold degradation and spore release.
Candida albicans (Yeast/Skin irritant)
Aspergillus niger (Black mold)
Long-Term Mold Resistance (Standard: AATCC 30)
After 7 days of exposure, Avatech fabrics showed zero fungal growth against:
Chaetomium globosum
Penicillium varians
Trichoderma virens
Antimicrobial Test Results
Skin Irritation Test Results
In laboratory tests, our treated fabrics eliminated 99.9% of these pathogens within 24 hours of contact, and maintained their effectiveness after 100+ washing cycles in healthcare-grade laundry conditions.
Durability Test Results
Backed by Science: Proven Antifungal Performance
Avatech fabrics have been rigorously tested by leading laboratories to ensure they provide exceptional protection against harmful fungi that can grow on fabrics. Here’s a breakdown of the fungi that were tested and how Avatech effectively stopped their growth.
ISO 13629-2:2014 Antifungal Test
Avatech reduced fungal growth by >90% after 48 hours, providing highly effective antifungal protection.
Candida albicans
A type of yeast that can cause infections in humans, especially in those with weakened immune systems. It is often responsible for yeast infections and can trigger skin irritations or respiratory issues if it grows on textiles.
Aspergillus niger
A common mold found in damp environments, such as bathrooms and kitchens. This mold can lead to respiratory infections, particularly in people with asthma or weakened immune systems.
AATCC 30 Antifungal Fabric Test
After 7 days of exposure to these fungi, there was no fungal growth observed on Avatech fabrics. The material remained free of both microscopic and visible fungal growth, ensuring long-term protection against mold and decay.
Chaetomium globosum
Known for its ability to grow on water-damaged materials, this fungus can lead to the deterioration of textiles, walls, and other surfaces. It can also release airborne spores that may cause allergic reactions or respiratory distress.
Penicillium varians
A mold commonly found in indoor environments, particularly in moist areas. It can cause respiratory issues and contribute to the breakdown and decay of fabrics over time.
Trichoderma virens
A fungus found in soil, often used as a biological control agent in agriculture. However, if it grows on fabrics or surfaces in homes, it can contribute to mold-related health issues.
Comparative Analysis: Avatech vs. Traditional Antimicrobials
| Feature | Avatech Technology | Traditional Silver/Metal Ion Treatments |
|---|---|---|
| Active Agent | Siliceous Quaternary Ammonium (QAC) | Silver Nanoparticles, Copper, or Zinc |
| Mechanism | Physical disruption of cell wall (Non-leaching) | Chemical poisoning (Leaching) |
| Durability | >100 Industrial Washes (Chemically bonded) | Low (Diminishes with washing) |
| Safety | Non-toxic, Non-irritating, Non-leaching | Risk of heavy metal leaching into skin/water |
| Spectrum | Broad (Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, MRSA) | Variable (Often weak against drug-resistant strains) |
| Fabric Feel | Maintains breathability and texture | Can stiffen fabric or cause discoloration |
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Our antimicrobial treatment is not just a temporary fix. It's engineered to last, maintaining its effectiveness over 100 wash cycles. This durability means healthcare providers can trust that their textiles will remain a line of defense against pathogens day after day, wash after wash.
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Designed to work with a range of textile materials, Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) are generally non-corrosive and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including fabrics, without causing damage or discoloration. This makes them highly versatile for various applications in healthcare settings.
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Safety to both humans and environment is our top priority. By reducing leaching, the chances of causing irritation and disruption to the environment reduces. Its low energy consuming and environmentally friendly treatment process contributes to sustainability and carbon reduction.
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The technology is designed to be compatible with both cellulosic (e.g., cotton) and synthetic (e.g., polyester) fabrics, ensuring broad applicability. Additionally, the treatment maintains or improves the tactile and tear resistance of the textiles, which are critical factors for their continued use in healthcare settings
Successful Real-World Applications of Avatech
Our technology is not theoretical; it is currently deployed in high-infection-risk environments.
Elderly Care (MRSA Control): A major Hong Kong elderly home adopted Avatech bedding for all their residents and successfully protected residents from MRSA and respiratory pathogens.
Public Hygiene (ATP Reduction): Avatech cleaning cloths demonstrated a significant reduction in ATP levels (biological residue) in high-traffic public washrooms without the use of additional detergents.
Hospitality (Bioburden Control): Deployed in a buffet restaurant, Avatech cloths achieved a 100x reduction in bioburden compared to standard wiping cloths.
GE Healthcare (Staff Safety): Service engineers working in high-risk hospital zones utilize Avatech uniforms to prevent cross-contamination.
Your Questions, Answered
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No. Avatech uses a non-leaching Quaternary Ammonium compound. It does not rely on heavy metals, making it safer for the environment and reducing the risk of skin irritation.
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Avatech is engineered for long-term durability. Independent tests confirm it retains >99% antimicrobial effectiveness after 100 healthcare-grade industrial wash cycles.
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Yes. Because the active agent is chemically bonded to the fabric (non-leaching), it does not wash off into the water supply during laundry cycles, unlike silver or zinc treatments which can contaminate aquatic ecosystems.
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Yes, compared to existing antimicrobial fabric treatment process, Avatech consumes much less energy and chemicals, minimizing the burden to the environment.