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SPEL New Zealand Limited has captured global recognition at the 10th International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada (iCAN 2025), held in Toronto on August 30. The company’s breakthrough product, SPEL SP-38 Antimicrobial and Antiseptics for Vagina Care (HPV Support), was awarded both the Gold Medal and the Top 10 Best Invention Award for its pioneering approach to intimate health and HPV-related hygiene.

Designed specifically for women’s intimate care, SP-38 is a non-toxic, broad-spectrum antimicrobial that physically disrupts bacterial and viral membranes on contact, providing sustained protection without antibiotics or harsh chemicals. Independent laboratory tests confirm rapid activity against common pathogens, including HPV, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and E. coli, while maintaining the natural pH and micro-flora balance of intimate skin.

“SP-38 was born from a simple mission: offer women a science-backed, gentle solution that supports the body’s defenses during HPV episodes and everyday life,” said Dr. Yang Fong (Richard), Chief Scientific Officer of SPEL. “Receiving the Gold Medal and a place among the Top 10 Best Inventions at iCAN 2025 validates years of R&D and underscores our commitment to non-resistance-forming antimicrobial technologies.”

The judging panel at iCAN—one of the world’s largest open innovation forums—praised SP-38 for its dual-action efficacy, clean formulation and clear commercial pathway. The product is already undergoing regulatory clearance in several Asia-Pacific markets, with roll-out to clinics and pharmacies planned for Q1 2026.

SPEL SP-38 is manufactured in New Zealand under ISO 13485 standards and is free from parabens, alcohol, chlorhexidine and fragrances, making it suitable for daily or post-procedural care. Early user surveys report a 96 % satisfaction rate, citing reduced irritation, odor and discharge after seven days of use.

About SPEL New Zealand Limited

SPEL New Zealand Limited is a science-driven hygiene and antimicrobial solutions company committed to advancing public health through innovative technologies. Founded on a strong foundation of research and development, SPEL specializes in physical-action antimicrobial technologies that effectively inhibit the growth of harmful microbes without contributing to drug resistance. This unique approach distinguishes SPEL in the global market, addressing critical health challenges while promoting sustainable and responsible antimicrobial use.

With expertise spanning multiple industries, SPEL’s cutting-edge solutions enhance hygiene and safety across medical, textile, and consumer product sectors. Their technologies are designed to protect human health by providing long-lasting antimicrobial protection, helping to reduce the spread of infections and improve overall quality of life.

Headquartered in New Zealand, SPEL exports its innovative products to over 20 countries worldwide, demonstrating a significant global footprint and commitment to making a positive impact internationally. Through ongoing research, collaboration, and a dedication to scientific excellence, SPEL continues to lead the way in developing effective, safe, and environmentally responsible antimicrobial solutions.

SPEL New Zealand Limited is proud to announce its outstanding success at the 10th International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada (iCAN 2025), held in Toronto on August 30, 2025. The company’s groundbreaking innovations in antimicrobial technology were recognized with multiple prestigious awards, reaffirming SPEL’s commitment to global health and innovation.

Dr. Yang Fong (Richard), representing SPEL New Zealand, received the Gold Medal and Top 10 Best Invention Award for two flagship products:
SPEL SP-38 – Antimicrobial and Antiseptics for Vagina Care (HPV Support): A novel formulation designed to support intimate hygiene and provide antimicrobial protection, particularly for individuals affected by HPV.

SPEL SP-365v2 TexShield™ – Dual-Action Antimicrobial & VOC Protection for Textiles: An advanced textile treatment solution that offers long-lasting antimicrobial defense while reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enhancing both safety and sustainability in fabric applications.

These awards were presented by the Toronto International Society of Innovation & Advanced Skills (TISIAS), recognizing SPEL’s contributions to health-focused innovation and environmental safety.

“We are deeply honored to receive these awards on the global stage,” said Dr. Yang Fong. “These recognitions reflect the dedication of our team to developing science-backed solutions that address real-world health challenges. From supporting women’s health to enhancing textile safety, our goal is to make a meaningful impact.”

The iCAN competition is one of the largest international platforms for inventors and innovators, attracting entries from around the world. Being selected among the Top 10 Best Inventions and receiving Gold Medal honors underscores SPEL’s leadership in antimicrobial technology and product innovation.

SPEL New Zealand will continue to invest in research and development to expand its portfolio of health and hygiene solutions, with a focus on safety, efficacy, and sustainability.

About SPEL New Zealand Limited

SPEL New Zealand is a science-driven company specializing in antimicrobial and hygiene solutions. With a strong foundation in research and innovation, SPEL develops products that protect public health and improve quality of life across diverse industries.

What is the purpose of the organosilanes?

Organosilanes containing quaternary ammonium halides and hydrolysable alkoxy groups bonded to silicon to form bonds to substrates that contain hydroxy, alkoxy, oxide and similar reactive moieties (Figure 1)1. In SPEL-MIC formulation, the silanes are extremely efficient bonding agents, which can be coupled to other molecules and then used to permanently bond those molecules to a target surface (Figure 1). In other words, it is the “glue” that holds the “spike” to the surface. The formulation consists of a two-steps process utilising both a biocide (quaternary compound) and biostatic (organosilane quaternary compound). Using this unique approach, you can Clean, Disinfect and Protect almost any surface.

What is the difference between SPEL-MIC product and other antimicrobial cleaning systems on the market?

Conventional antimicrobial cleaning systems penetrate living cells and kill by way of poisoning the organism2. They are designed to act quickly and dissipate quickly to avoid adverse effects to humans and animals due to their toxic ingredients, i.e. alcohol > 70% or bleaching materials. Most commercial antimicrobials used for treating building surfaces do a great job of getting a quick kill on bacteria and fungi, although most have a limited spectrum of effectiveness2. The SPEL-MIC nanotechnology takes a totally unique approach. It provides an effective initial microbial kill when applied, like the conventional methods, but it also provides long-term control of growth on treated surfaces, for long-lasting protection. The surface itself is modified to make it antimicrobially active for the normal life of the substrate onto which it is applied.

How do I know whether the active ingredient of SPEL-MIC is present?

The active quaternary silane compound can be detected using a bromophenol blue (BPB) dye3. A study conducted by Lamba et al., (2016) on the evaluation of antimicrobial-treated fabric properties showed retention of organosilane compound dyed with BPB dye on fabric. (Figure 2)3.

Figure 2 – Bromophenol (BPB) dye blue retention by untreated cotton (left) vs cotton treated (right)with organosilane BPB dye compounds. Figure from Lamba et al., (2016).

Antimicrobial activity testing on quaternary silane compound (SPEL-MIC formulation)

Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC 6538, was obtained from the American Type Culture Collection. Test organisms were grown overnight at 35 °C in Trypticase Soy Broth (TSB). Plates containing 30–300 colonies were counted and used to determine the number of organisms present in the stock suspensions3. An inoculum consisting of 20 μL of the stock bacterial suspension was applied to 0.5 inches width swatches of fabric (treated with quaternary silane compound) held in sterile Petri plates. Care was taken to ensure that the inoculum was evenly distributed and completely absorbed into the fabric3. The bacterial stock suspension (20 μL) was also added to control (untreated) fabric swatches. After incubation, the swatches were placed onto TSA plates and incubated at 37°C3. At 24 and 48 h, the swatches were observed, and bacterial survival (as indicated by the observation of S. aureus colonies) was assessed in terms of growth (G), reduced growth (RG) or nogrowth (NG) (Figure 3)3.

Figure 3 – We observed no growth on fabric treated with quaternary ammonium compound (right)compared to (left) untreated, red colour indication of S. aureus active growth. Figure from Lamba et al., (2016)3

How long does the treatment last?

Since the cured antimicrobial is involatile, insoluble, and non-leaching, the treatment should last for at least 30 days of the treated surface. The life of the treated surface depends on a number of factors, not the least of which is surface preparation, If you treat a dirty or unstable surface when the dirt comes off or the surface is disturbed, the effectiveness of the antimicrobial will decrease. Abrasive or caustic (pH 12.0) cleaners will also shorten the effective life of SPEL-MIC. If unsure reapply SPEL-MIC for renewal for another layer of protection for up to 30 days.