Purivy

COVID-19 has radically changed our world. Millions of citizens across the globe have adopted the use of face masks everyday. But studies show citizens are not washing their masks frequently enough or in the correct way. Current CDC recommendations are to wash a face mask after every use, a standard the majority of people do not meet according to studies. Purivy has developed a patent-pending portable case using UVC light to sanitize face masks On-The-Go after each use. We offer convenient, quick, and reliable way to sanitize face masks as well as other high touch items - ensuring personal hygiene standards. We believe by providing a case that uses sound science to kill bacteria and viruses, we can help reduce transmission of illnesses to millions across the globe - and promote the adoption of reusable face masks as opposed to disposable PPE that ends up in our oceans!

With COVID-19 numbers steadily increasing in Europe and elsewhere across the globe, it is important for average citizens to continue having access to clean PPE. Face masks have been proven to reduce transmission of respiratory illnesses like Covid-19. A 2019 study of healthcare workers showed that various respiratory viruses can and do live on outside of such masks. Current CDC recommendations are to wash a face mask after every use, a standard the majority of people do not meet according to studies. According to 2020 YouGov poll, just 13% of people who wear washable face masks are washing them frequently enough, and in the right way to help prevent spread of illnesses. The rapid adoption of face masks necessitates the need for education on proper sanitation and creative new ideas on how to best help citizens ensure their safety and those of their loved ones. Additionally, the demand for disposable face masks and gloves have skyrocketed due to the global pandemic. Disposable face masks, which are typically made from polypropylene plastics, and are quickly filling up our oceans in an environmental disaster. We need to encourage citizens to adopt reusable PPE and help provide proven solutions for keeping them clean. 

Our product uses UVC LEDs in the 270nm range coupled with a novel mask fastening system to reduce winkles and folds which prevent proper sanitation since UVGI requires "line-of-sight". We are also specially designing a face mask to be coupled with our case which will be composed of ultraviolet resistant materials and include an easy snap in system to fix within our UVC case. Using low energy, long life LEDs, allows for us to have a portable system that can be both battery powered as well as plugged into traditional 5V USB cables. Portability of our device allows for sanitizing your face mask when leaving the grocery store, while riding in your vehicle, or when having lunch at the park - all within just minutes. Our device will also feature magnetic attachments for other high touch items such as phones, keys, pens and pencils, tables, etc. 

Our intended audience includes all health conscious individuals and Green-product orientated consumers. Everyone who uses a face mask frequently will benefit from being able to sanitize on the move or in their vehicle before bringing in used face masks into their homes. The impact we hope to achieve is as follows: 1. To reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus as well as any future viruses/outbreaks by sanitizing contaminated PPE. 2. To reduce the environmental impact of single time use face masks by promoting a switch to a reusable face mask that can be sanitized quickly and easily. We also hope to reduce the impact of having to run multiple washing machine cycles to sanitize a family's masks after each use as recommended by the CDC. 3. To provide an easy and convenient method to sanitize face masks as well as other high use items such as cell phones, keys, etc. - fit for the new post Covid reality.

Multiple studies have shown many Americans and Europeans are not aware of information stating the importance of washing your face masks. Less than half of respondents claimed they were actually washing their face masks after each use/once a day and even less were washing in the recommended methods to ensure proper sanitation. In fact - 8% of Americans admitted to never having washed their reusable face masks at all! We aim to inspire people to take better hygiene precautions - both by educating about the importance of frequent sanitizing and providing an easy, quick, portable, and verified sanitation solution! 

We are currently testing our prototypes in conjunction with Florida Power and Light company and Next Era Energy - two corporations headquartered in Juno Beach, FL. We have provided multiple devices (10) to their Essential Working staff who ensure power lines stay functional during Florida's brutal weather cycles. We are monitoring their daily activities, how many time they use the device, if anyone gets sick, and incorporating any feedback into our final design for manufacture!

Purivy was formed by a team of 5 American engineers who were laid off as part of the global economic crisis caused by Covid-19. We banded together and decided to do something to help fight the pandemic and clean our streets from disposable PPE. Purivy is creating a new portable sanitation case designed specifically to help Americans sanitize their reusable face masks and other high tough items like phones, keys, etc. in the post Covid reality. Numerous studies have shown Americans are not sanitizing their face masks frequently enough or in the right manner to meet CDC standards for proper hygiene and health, spreading illnesses and harmful bacteria that cause "mascne". One randomized controlled trial among hospital health workers in Vietnam showed that infrequent/improper washing of reusable face masks more than doubled the chance of infection.

 Our product offers a convenient, quick, and science backed method for proper sanitation, ensuring our users health and that of their loved ones. Many harmful viruses and bacteria will still be lurking around long after Covid-19 is gone, and many Americans report they will continue using masks well into the future when appropriate to protect themselves and others. Proper and frequent sanitation should be part of that equation. Purivy - Live Life Clean!

We believe we can help solve Supply Chain Issues with global PPE shortages by allowing a quick, convenient, and effective solution to sanitizing reusable PPE between uses. This could help solve bottleneck issues in times of pandemics. Any funds from the Prize would be used directly to manufacture our product and get it into the hands of people who need clean PPE across the world!