Hirdaramani Group Joins hands with SLINTEC and CirQ to introduce the next generation smart mask

Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC), leads the Sri Lankan Science and Technology research and development landscape with a number of innovations. ‘Hale’ is the latest addition to the list of innovations by SLINTEC, a low cost, ultra-thin and easily attachable respiratory monitoring smart sensor that has been developed in collaboration with CirQ Labs; a high-tech innovation hub specializing in healthcare solutions. Hirdaramani Group is a leading global manufacturer providing integrated apparel design, production and distribution solutions to premium international brands.

SLINTEC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hirdaramani Group on 16 th of September, 2020 in order to commercialize the “Hale” mask sensor which facilitates real-time remote monitoring of vital signs such as mask life, respiratory rate, mask fit, breathing pattern, etc of face mask users. ‘Hale’ smart sensor comprises a graphene and nanotechnology-based sensing element with state-of-the-art signal processing and machine learning processes to capture and record the variations detected in inhale and exhaled breath characteristics.

Hirdaramani Group manufactures Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) for the European Union and North American markets which includes Face Masks. Incorporating this sensor to a face mask will create a value added product where the smart mask ensures the safety of the users. The agreement signing celebrates the first collaboration between the two companies on PPEs and marks the very first high tech value addition to face masks undertaken by a Sri Lankan apparel manufacturer.

From left to right: Messrs. Anushanth Karalasingam (Research Scientist – SLINTEC), Venika Ekanayake (Research Scientist–SLINTEC), Dr.Kasun Dissanayake (Research Fellow – SLINTEC) and Vimukthi Jayaweera (Science Group Leader – SLINTEC) Biman Liyanage (Founder CirQLabs), Heminda Jayaweera (COO-SLINTEC), Aroon Hirdaramani (Director-Hirdaramani Group),Theodore Gunasekara (CEO/DirectorHirdaramani Industries Sri Lanka), Thusitha Cooray (COO-Hirdaramani Discovery Labs), Dr. Rangika De Silva (Head-Technology Transfer) of SLINTEC and Suhartha Weragoda (Executive Technology Transfer–SLINTEC)