News Release
HighChem Introduces a Series of COVID-19 Related Products, Strengthening its Role as a Bridge between Japan and China
HighChem Company Limited (Headquarters: Chuo Chuo-ku, Tokyo President and CEO: Ushio Taka hereinafter referred to as HighChem), in response to the global spread of COVID-19, has begun evaluating the distribution of products developed within China aimed at combating the virus. The products slated for potential sales include fully autonomous sterilization robots, which have been deployed in critical areas such as Wuhan Central Hospital and various airports, and COVID-19 antibody test kits. HighChem is actively exploring opportunities to introduce these proven solutions to support health and safety initiatives effectively.
1. Completely independent sterilization robot
The "Completely Independent Sterilization Robot", that HighChem is currently considering selling, is a robot that can sterilize indoor spaces unattended such as hospitals and airports, as well as surfaces such as doorknobs and handrails. This product was developed by a Chinese robot manufacturer as a measure against infectious diseases such as the new coronavirus, and to reduce the risk of secondary infection among cleaners and others.
It has three sterilization functions: 1) ultraviolet light emission mode, 2) a mode that sprays disinfectant such as hydrogen peroxide or hypochlorous acid water in a mist, and 3) plasma air mode, which has a high sterilization effect. In particular, the ultraviolet light emission mode can be used to irradiate surfaces such as doorknobs and handrails without any personnel present, and can also be used to sterilize surfaces that have viruses on them, where it has been pointed out that viruses may survive for up to several days. It is also equipped with an AI function that automatically sets a route and performs sterilization work based on a preset location and time. Furthermore, since it is cordless, it can move around the building freely.
This autonomous robot is currently being introduced in China, including at Wuhan Central Hospital, where it is playing a role in the fight against coronavirus infections. It is also planned that it will be introduced at airports and hospitals in the Middle East and Europe, where there are concerns about the spread of infection. In Japan, we plan to make introductions for it to be used in airports, hospitals, stations, and general buildings.
2. New coronavirus antibody test reagent kit
The "New Coronavirus Antibody Test Reagent Kit" that HighChem is currently considering selling is a test kit that can provide results in about 2 to 10 minutes. One kit can detect both IgM antibodies that occur early in infection and IgG antibodies that occur later, and only one drop of blood is required. Compared to PCR testing, which is currently the mainstream in Japan, it saves time, cost, and work space, and can significantly improve testing efficiency. Additionally, as a result of performance evaluation in China, it is a high-performance test kit with a sensitivity of over 94% and a specificity of over 99%. We already have sales records in 20 countries and areas around the world, including the EU.
Inquiries from the press regarding this release
HighChem Co., Ltd. Administration Division Eriko Kuroiwa
TEL: 03-5542-0580 E-mail：kuroiwa@highchem.co.jp