Maglificio Ripa, a textile company from the Lombardy region, in operation in the province of Cremona in Italy (an area among the most affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic), has developed three special fabrics for the creation of innovative protective masks for civil use. The company has carried out inhouse tests and is waiting for certification.

"We immediately took action to help in the fight against this terrible pandemic," said Luca Bianco, director of Maglificio Ripa, in a press release, "with the design of three special fabrics that are safe and high performing, thanks to a special certified treatment, for the realisation of protective masks."

"In cotton, polyester or polymer fabric, they ensure total comfort, are antibacterial, water-repellent, breathable, washable, and Oeko-Tex certified. So far, we have carried out the tests within our company and we are currently waiting for certification which is very important for us to ensure an excellent and safe product under every aspect for those customers of ours who have in the meantime converted their productions," Bianco added.