Insulation industry news from Global Insulation

US: Johns Manville says that it has begun production of a new specially-developed coated polyester spunbond nonwoven fabric for use in Level 3 medical gowns for healthcare professionals fighting the coronavirus outbreak. It is producing the material, called Evalith, at its Spartanburg special applications building materials plant in South Carolina.

Johns Mansville engineered products president John Vasuta said, “Given the urgent need for action, we quickly decided to build on our own capabilities and develop a coated product to supply the domestic medical gown manufacturing industry. The fabric offers superior liquid barrier performance compared to materials used for Level 1 and Level 2 medical gowns, while also providing comfort and stitch-strength.”

France: Switzerland-based Sika has entered production of facemasks at its Dexel building materials plant in Les Salles du Gardon, Gard department. Sika says that the plant produces 15,000 masks/day ‘almost entirely from Sika products.’ It will distribute the masks around customers and employees and has received an order for 165,000 masks.

Sika Europe, Middle East and Africa regional manager Ivo Schädler said, “We find ourselves in an exceptional situation that confronts us with new challenges on an almost daily basis, especially in those countries worst hit by coronavirus. Our top priority is to protect our employees, their families, and our customers – which also includes finding unconventional ways of helping them.”