Cleveland, Ohio – Lubrizol's Estane thermoplastic polyurethanes have leapt from shoe soles to the padding in new coronavirus face masks made by sports footwear and apparel giant Nike.
The material, which Lubrizol has donated, is also found in powered air-purifying respirator lenses. Both the masks and powered respirators are being used in several hospitals across the US, said Lubrizol.
The Nike face shield with Lubrizol TPU
Lubrizol said its innovation team 'quickly evaluated materials, provided insights to optimise performance and re-orchestrated its production and supply to produce and donate the material to Nike.'
Nike said that the full-face shields are produced in a nine-step process developed with its teams in Oregon and Missouri. The Saint Charles, Missouri plant has 'decades of experience in designing, developing and manufacturing an extensive range of TPU-based products, said Nike.'
Nike added that it is rapidly adopting capacities and new production line procedures to keep pace with fast-moving government guidelines.
The Oregon Health and Science University first shipment of donated full-face shields and powered air lenses on 3 April 2020.
Nike has also shipped products to healthcare providers in and around Cleveland, Ohio. This is Lubrizol's world headquarters.
''We are grateful for the generosity of companies around the country as we build up our supply levels in anticipation of a surge,' said Laura Kalafatis. She is chair of Cleveland Clinics Philanthropy Institute. 'This collaboration between Lubrizol and Nike demonstrates ingenuity applied alongside compassion and a sincere interest to help thousands of our caregivers.'
As well as face masks, TPU from Lubrizol is being used in medical gowns, medical equipment, hospital mattresses, tubing, hoses and medical devices for many other critical applications
Lubrizol CEO, Rick Tolin said 'we are thrilled to collaborate with Nike to improve the lives and support those in need.'
Lubrizol has announced a $2m donation to help fight the virus around the world. During the crisis it has also donated to food banks in areas where it has operations. The company has also supported local restaurants by buying meals for hospital workers.
