Zeolites are a family of minerals known for their powerful deodorization and anti-bacterial effects that are supported by metals such as copper and silver. In recent years attention is also being paid to zeolites for their ability to absorb radioactive materials that are dissolved into water.
Despite this advanced function, until now there were no effective methods for affixing zeolites to materials such as paper or fabric, which has limited the fields in which they can be used.
Rengo has carried out research and development, including that related to paper manufacturing, for many years, and has successfully crystallized zeolite inside cellulose fiber at a high density (a patent has been acquired for this process). Rengo has commercialized the resulting product as Cellgaia (pulp that zeolite crystallized at high density).
Cellgaia preserves all of zeolite’s exemplary functions while maintaining the shape of the fibers. It can be applied to many types of fiber products such as paper, nonwovens, and cotton. The performance of this product can also be adjusted easily according to desired functions.
Allergen inactivity
Mite antigens >> 97.7%
Japanese cedar antigens >> 99.5%
(Source: inactivity test for various types of allergens on sheet containing 100% copper-supported Cellgaia)
Virus-resistant properties
Poliovirus, influenza virus, feline calicivirus, herpes simplex virus, Adenoviruses
>> Virus suppression ratio: 99% or greater
(Source: inactivity test for various types of viruses on sheet containing 60% copper-supported Cellgaia)
Safety/recyclability
• Cellgaia is regarded as paper according to various types of laws
• The raw materials and finished product are entirely natural
• Cellgaia is extremely safe because the supporting silver and copper are immobile
> Can be safely used for sanitary materials
* Cellgaia is a patented product in Japan, the United States, Canada, and Europe.