Scientists from Łódź have patented a new fabric that allow water vapour and air to pass through, but stops house dust mite droppings dangerous for people with allergies. Bedding covers made with it will decrease the level of allergens in the environment of the patient, and thus improve the patient’s condition.
Prof. Marek Kowalski, an allergist from the Medical University of Lodz, explained that mites are tiny creatures present in our environment. They secrete proteins that are potent allergens. "Sensitisation to these allergens is very common, and those affected suffer from allergic asthma, rhinitis, sometimes lesions" - he said.
Dust mites dwell in mattresses, pillows, bedding. To prevent their development, according to Prof. Kowalski, a barrier must be created that will prevent them from penetrating into the interior of fabrics.
This is the function of the new material developed in Łódź. "We had to obtain the structure of material that allows water vapour and air to pass through, but stops allergenic house dust mite droppings. Innovation consists in using special yarns, the development of a special fabric structure and polymer coating corresponds with our assumptions" - explained Małgorzata Cieślak from the Textile Research Institute in Łódź.
Prof. Kowalski argues that the use of covers made of the new material allows to reduce the concentration of allergen in the environment of the patient, improving the patient’s condition, which allows for reduced use of anti-allergy drugs.
PAP - Science and Scholarship in Poland
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