Nanotechnology 'made in Spain' to create stencils that dissipate odours

New nanotechnology has come to light which aims to minimize the growth of microorganisms in footwear insoles. The project is called Porosolor, in which researchers from  the Footwear Technology Center of La Rioja are working to develop a new line of shoes to be marketed as ‘Zel’s’ under the Fabiolas brand.

The CTCR research team is using material and methodologies that removes odour caused by the appearance of bacteria that proliferate with humidity. The nanotechnologists have successfully completed the first phases of the R+D+I project. 

Sweat originating from the eccrine glands, located in areas of the body such as the feet, does not “smell”, according to experts from the Spanish Academy of Dermatology. It is the bacterial colonization after the sweat that causes it to become malodorous. 

Extensive research was carried out on inorganic porous materials with antibacterial, odour-eliminating and fragrance-releasing functions, in the first phase of this project. The researchers managed to synthesize several monofunctional materials with very good results and through several modifications managed to combine three functions in a single tri-functional material. Numerous organoleptic tests were carried out in order to prove this hypothesis. 

Once this trifunctional material was achieved, it was applied to lining and insole surfaces, commonly used in the footwear industry. Different coating formulations were prepared, achieving good finishes in both textile microfiber and leather, maintaining their uniform application, as well as the aesthetic finish of the materials themselves.

In addition, to check the permanence of the three-functional material, rub fastness tests were carried out simulating its usual use when walking. In the current phase, antimicrobial activity is being tested to verify that treated substrates maintain antibacterial functionality.

Throughout this process, the first prototype insoles have been successfully prepared and are being used by volunteer workers at Calzados Zel's and CTCR to test these materials in real conditions, confirming, a priori, their good behaviour.