Solvay partners with Boeing for COVID-19 face shields

In response to urgent needs by medical professionals for protective equipment to combat COVID-19, Solvay is supplying high-performance, medical-grade transparent film to Boeing for its production of face shields. Boeing approached Solvay for its experience using advanced composite and adhesive materials on multiple commercial and defense programs.

Boeing will use the thermoplastic film manufactured by Solvay's Ajedium Films business to produce thousands of face shields critically needed by hospitals and medical workers in the U.S. to protect them from COVID-19. The film will be manufactured using Solvay’s medical-grade Radel polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) or Udel polysulfone (PSU), two transparent specialty polymers widely used for medical devices because of their ability to be sterilized and withstand aggressive disinfectants.

“We are honored to bring our product expertise to our customers in this time of crisis,” explains Jeff Hrivnak, healthcare global business development manager for Solvay Specialty Polymers. “Boeing is rising to the occasion by providing more durable face shields now in critical demand for our heroic healthcare workers, and we are proud to help make that possible.”

Further product and contact information are available on Solvay’s dedicated page on COVID-19 emergency production.