Hohenstein develops insect-repelling horse blanket
Researchers at the Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology at the Hohenstein Institute in Germany have developed a blanket which protects animals and humans from insect bites.
Research was carried out under the direction of Dr Timo Hammer in conjunction with Neuenhaus-based HKM Sports Equipment, as part of a joint project into functional protection for animals.
“In general, there are two options for protecting animals and humans from insect bites,” says a statement from the Hohenstein Institute. “Firstly by applying substances to deter insects, known as repellents. And secondly, a mechanical protection – the mosquito lands on its victim, but is prevented from biting by a textile.”
The aim of the research project was to develop a blanket which would offer maximum security by combining both principles, mechanical and chemical.
Hohenstein researchers developed a test system to check the resistance of textiles to puncturing by insects. In the test, the biting and piercing apparatus of central European pests are simulated.
The result of the research project is a blanket which the Hohenstein Institute claims protects the horse using a light spacer fabric. The light material used for the blanket means that the animals don’t suffer any build up of heat, according to the institute. The textile also has good moisture vapour transmission, it claims. When incorporating the repellent, a practical solution was discovered.
The blanket is also wash-resistant and weatherproof, making it suitable for long-term use.
“The innovative horse protection blanket is a successful example of the rapid development of a good idea into a marketable product,” said Dr Timo Hammer. The new horse protection blanket will be available in the shops from summer 2012.
The project was funded by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology based on a decision by the German parliament.
