Mask makers increase output on China pollution fears

Manufacturers of anti-allergy masks are increasing production of highly functional products to keep up with surging demand, as people in Japan worry about the health risks of air pollution from China.

Of special concern is so-called PM2.5 pollution-particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter-which can pass through standard masks and harm the lungs.

Kowa Co., Japan's largest home-use mask maker, has plans to raise output fivefold. The company says its Sanjigen line of masks filters out 99% of particulates as small as 0.1 micron. The company plans to expand production lines at its Fuji factory in Shizuoka Prefecture. It will also seek approval to sell the masks in China.

Iris Ohyama Inc. has developed a mask to block microparticles. The product has five unwoven textile layers, compared with three for other masks. The mask is made at a factory in Dalian, China. On April 1, sales will start in Kyushu, which has already been affected by the pollution.

Japan Vilene Co. has raised by 50% production of industrial grade masks that meet the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's N95 standard.

Sales of Unicharm Corp.'s masks have doubled since the beginning of the year. The firm is now considering increasing output.

Resource: The Nikkei Weekly