Raymond UCO, the pioneer in denim innovation and solutions, in partnership with Swiss textile innovator HeiQ, has launched a highly protective denim fabric range called Shield with HeiQViroblock, a sustainable, antiviral and antimicrobial technology that has been tested and proven effective to destroy 99.99 per cent viruses.

The Shield collection offers a wide range of denim fabrics that aim to fight viruses & bacteria. This innovative denim range also features fabric powered by HeiQViroblock technology which has been tested effective against a dozen viruses and bacteria, including SARS-CoV-2, H1N1, H5N1, H7N9, H3N2, and sendai virus, all with an effectiveness above 99.99%.

Studies suggest viruses and bacteria can remain infective on textile surfaces for days. Human Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) persist for up to two days on surgical gowns at room temperature. In this context, antiviral treatments for textiles can significantly reduce the risk of transmission and contamination thus ensuring hygiene and safety. HeiQViroblock is a unique combination of advanced silver and vesicle components which is imparted technically on the fabric surface. These active components in the HeiQViroblock kill bacteria and destroy common harmful enveloped viruses within a short time span of two minutes of exposure (according to modified AATCC100 test conducted on Sendai virus). HeiQViroblock is designed to last on the fabric even after repeated domestic washes.

HeiQViroblock is certified as safe and sustainable with all its ingredients designated as cosmetic grade, bio-based and recycled. Beta Analytics Testing Laboratory has certified that HeiQViroblock contains 72 per cent bio-based carbon. It is EU REACH and US FIFRA compliant, OEKOTEX® certified, ZDHC and bluesign® homologized. Denims treated with HeiQViroblock are complaint with EU BPR and US EPA. The HeiQViroblock ingredient is marketed under brand name HeiQ V-Block in the USA.