a next generation material LIMEX, TBM Co., Ltd

Most of the masks are single use plastic
Most of the disposable face masks are made of petroleum-derived plastic such as polypropylene. The volume of petroleum-derived plastic used for general use face masks in Japan is estimated to be about 10,000 metric tons*1. This is as many as the pens and fishing nets annually consumed in Japan *2, or half of the straws annually consumed in Europe *3.
*1 Estimated by TBM. The production volume of household use masks in Japan was 4,284 million pieces in 2018, and it is estimated that over 90% of face masks are non-woven disposal masks (Source: Japan Hygiene Products Industry Association website).
*2 Estimated by TBM, based on Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc., 2011
*3 Estimated by TBM, based on Seas at Risk（2017）”Single-use Plastics and the Marine Environment”

Disposable masks are ending up in ocean
As reported by Reuters, appropriate disposal of face masks are becoming more and more critical as there are masks reported to be washed out to sea and ended up on beaches, as face mask consumption increases. Thrown away face masks are also found in town in Tokyo as well, as the infection spreads.
* Reuters（2020）”Discarded coronavirus masks clutter Hong Kong's beaches, trails”
* The Asahi Shimbun Digital（2020/4/21）

TBM and Bioworks have developed Bio Face,
a washable and reusable face mask made of PLA (polylactic acid),
a biomass-based renewable material.
Request for quote / Order

PLA fiber - Mildly acidic and antibacterial
Bio Face masks have been reported to be antibacterial and mildly acidic (close to human skin) by a Japanese testing laboratory (Nissenken Quality Evaluation Center).
* The antibacterial persistence is based on the test results of the Nissenken Quality Evaluation Center.

Washable and reusable
Bio Face is washable and reusable. By reusing the masks, disposal of masks can be reduced, leading to reduction of marine pollution.
* The washing durability is based on the test results of Bioworks Co., Ltd as of June 22th. The test is still contiuing to check the washing durability over 50 times.

Safe for human and environment
PLA (Poly Lactic Acid) is compatible with the Japanese Food Sanitation Act, Notification # 370 provided by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and is listed on the positive list provided by Japan Hygienic Olefin And Styrene Plastics Association. PLA is also approved by US FDA at Food Contact Notification No. 178.The lactic acid, monomer of PLA, exists in human body as well.

Biomass based and biodegradable
PLA is a biomass based plastic made from biomass resource such as corn starch, and biodegrades in industrial compost environments. By using PLA, it is possible to drastically reduce the use of petroleum oil. PLA emits less CO2 compared with traditional petroleum-based plastic when burned (based on calculation from their chemical structure). PLA hardly degrades in normal environments, and therefore can be used for a prolonged time.

TBM and Bioworks are developing an antivirus mask filter,
targeting to launch in June 2020.
With a pocket knitted, Bio Face masks can be equipped with commercially available virus filters,
cotton gauze, and similar accessories, in order to add functionality.

Product Name	Bio Face	Bio Face Lite	Bio Face Cool	Bio Face Lite Cool
Image
Knitting Method	◎ 3D knitted	○	◎ 3D knitted	○
Cool Feeling	✕	✕	○	○
Pocket for virus filter	○	○	○	○
Size	XS・S・M	S・M	XS・S・M	S・M
Color	White or Gray	White or Gray	White	White
Suggested Retail Price*	US$ 14.99	US$ 3.99	US$ 14.99	US$ 3.99
*Discount prices will be offered for bulk orders (not including VAT)

<precautionary statement>
- Bio Face does not block the invasion of virus splashes and pollen in the air.
- It is recommended to install a commercially available virus cut filter to block the invasion of viruses and pollen.
- Antibacterial means to suppress bacterial growth on the surface of the product, and does not mean to kill or decontaminate the bacteria.
- Hand wash is recommended when washing, and if washed with a washing machine please put the mask in a laundry net.
- Please note that the product shape may change, if the mask is washed with a washing machine.
- Please do not use dryers, bleach nor softening agents. Please use a neautral detergent for washing.
- Please do not expose the mask to direct sunlight when drying.
- We do not accept return or exchange after purchase. Thank you for your understanding.