Immensa Technology Labs (Immensa) has ramped up production of 3D-printed medical face shields, that provide 180-degree protection against the novel coronavirus – COVID-19.

Located at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park), Immensa is an engineering company involved in the manufacture of spare parts for the oil and gas industry. However anticipating the rising demand for face masks and protective gear in the country due to COVID-19, the company is currently dedicating 30 to 40 per cent of its capacity to the production of medical face shields.

The demand for face masks soared in the UAE ever since the government ruled that personal protective equipment has to be worn at all times while leaving the house. The 3D-printed gear developed by Immensa at the SRTI Park is specifically designed with components that prevent the spread of the COVID-19 infection.

“Since February, Immensa has collaborated with various organisations in Europe to produce very effective PPEs (personal protective equipment) that is in short supply globally. One particular effective PPE is 3D-printed face shield, connected to a headband. The face shield or visor is made from a special polymer that repels viruses and bacteria,” said Fahmi Al Shawwa, CEO and founder at Immensa Technology Labs.

Al Shawwa added that by March, Immensa had produced over 5,000 face shields every week and has currently ramped up production od face shields to over 25,000 a week. They are also supplying to private and public entities across the UAE.

Additionally, it is developing and 3D printing connectors for ventilators and other items that are facing shortages in the industry, as well as spare parts for non-medical machinery that are hard to source due to supply-chain disruption, the company added.

Hussain Mohammed Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTI Park, said innovation, more than ever, plays a key role in combating the global coronavirus pandemic. Immensa has successfully innovated its line of business to step up and support medical staff and first responders, who are most prone to be exposed to the virus.