Star Product: Heiq Viroblock

ICP Industrial is incorporating the HeiQ V-Block technology into water-based and UV formulations for global distribution. The coatings are intended to be over-coated after printing (final layer that a consumer would come in contact with).

08 Sep 2021 | By Aultrin Vijay

Virus-blocking coatings for graphic arts sector

What is unique about it?
This technology uses EU BPR-approved active ingredients to protect printed products targeting bacteria and enveloped viruses. HeiQ Viroblock has been tested effective against SARS-CoV-2 on textiles in independent third-party institutes of virology (according to a MJ 2020 report on viral stability and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 on treated material; Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Australia).

Where is it manufactured?
HeiQ Viroblock is a Swiss technology, and it will be incorporated into ICP coatings in their manufacturing sites in Europe, USA, Mexico and Asia Pacific region (coming soon) for global distribution.

Describe the technology.
It combines specially engineered antimicrobial silver and a unique liposome vesicle technology as a booster for robust and rapid efficacy. When was it launched? An exclusivity agreement was signed on 12 March 2021 with ICP Industrial.

What market is it aimed at?
Graphic art print and packaging market including food packaging (paper board and flexible), films and laminates, shrink sleeves, pouches, magazines and brochures, commercial print and flyers, and transactional cards using offset, flexo and gravure printing processes.

Any notable projects?
Some confidential projects will be announced soon.

How does it work on the press?
It works the same as a traditional water-based or energy curing coating.

Is there any tweak required to pre-press?
No, normal pre-press and printing/varnishing functions.

Are there any equipment adjustments required?
No, however coat weight must be verified, and maintenance of anilox/gravure rollers is critical to ensure correct coat weight applied. A full clean-up of the coating unit is also required before using to ensure no dilution of the product with standard coating.

What’s the USP?
99% efficacy is achieved in minutes due to the unique liposome vesicle.

How do you rank it in terms of the ‘aha’ factor?
It provides protection to printed products of bacteria and viruses, therefore minimising the potential retransmission of pathogens from the surface.

How easy is it to use?
It’s the same as a traditional coating.

What are the costs?
Cost is based on the type of coating used, as there are many coating formulations for different performance requirements defined by the end user.

Contact:
Anup Syal Country head – India, ICP Industrial | Nicoat |MinusNine | Hi-Tech anupsyal@icpindustrial.com / +91 9920700250