JSE-listed Renergen, a medium-cap company operating within the energy sector, has announced the successful completion of the ‘Cryo-VaccTM’ prototype. Cryo-VaccTM is designed to effectively transport and store a range of Covid-19 vaccines given its attractive properties. The Cryo-VaccTM has a temperature range of -150ÂșC to 8ÂșC, making it versatile for a range of vaccines. This has been one of the major issues with the vaccine rollout in South Africa, with a number of Covid-19 vaccines requiring to be stored at freezing temperatures. The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, which were cleared for use by regulatory authorities at the latter end of 2020, have to be stored at ultra-low temperatures to remain effective. This could potentially be groundbreaking in order to fast-track South Africa’s vaccine rollout plan given Cryo-VaccTM storage qualities. – Justin Rowe-Roberts
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Renergen SENS statement:Â
Cyro-Vacc launches in South Africa with working prototype
Helium and natural gas company Renergen is proud to announce the completion and successful operation of the Companyâs first Cryo-VaccTM prototype, which is being presented to South African based media at its headquarters in Johannesburg, today at 10am SAST.
Cryo-VaccTM was designed and patented by Renergen for efficient transport and storage of ultra-cold biologics for periods of up to 25 days or longer in transit, where access to an external power source is not possible. The Cryo-VaccTM has a temperature range of -150ÂșC to 8ÂșC, making it highly versatile for a range of vaccines.
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Combined with best-in-class cold chain monitoring and asset tracking technology from Beyond Wireless Proprietary Limited (âBeyondâ), a World Health Organisation Performance, Quality and Safety (PQS) certified remote temperature monitoring solution provider, the Cryo-VaccTM can provide accurate temperature readings of the vaccines whilst in transit, as well as GPS tracking to ensure the custody chain can be audited.
Beyond is an Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provider, specialising in remote temperature monitoring and control, with a specific focus on the global public healthcare sector. Beyond has active deployments in over 70 countries and are proud to partner with numerous for-profit enterprises, Ministries of Health, as well as several non-governmental organisations including UNICEF, the World Health Organisation, the International Committee for the Red Cross, and the Pan American Health Organisation.
âOur mission is to improve human health, quality of life, and secure humanity’s future by leveraging the power and reach of the Internet of Things (IoT). We believe that eradicating poverty, hunger and inequality starts with preventing disease. It’s simple – healthy communities are happier, safer and more prosperous. We are proud to partner with Renergen on Cryo-VaccTMâ said Ian Lester, founder and CEO, Beyond.
Cryo-VaccTM is ideal for both air and ground transportation, utilising liquid nitrogen to transport by road and helium to transport by air. Aside from helium being only a fraction of the weight of nitrogen, significantly reducing its cost in airfreight, when used in Cryo-VaccTM helium can accommodate up to 12 times more vials per flight compared to other cryogens based on current flight safety regulations.
With the recent release of the NDoH tender for the distribution of vaccines in South Africa, Renergen has teamed up with local express courier partner, DPD Laser, which is part of The Laser Group and known for its last mile courier express capabilities and infrastructure throughout South Africa.
âDPD Laser has been proudly serving South Africa for over 30 years, and we are excited to bring our extensive coverage and best-in-breed, technology-driven delivery services to enable mission-critical vaccine distribution using Cryo-VaccTMâ said Anton Visagie, CEO, DPD Laser.
Validation of the Cryo-VaccTM in anticipated deployment situations will commence shortly, but Renergen has already commenced discussions for the sale of units to logistics companies outside of the South African Development Community (SADC).
âPrecise temperature control combined with a formidable hold time in transit, makes Cryo-VaccTM a compelling asset in the transport of biologics, especially in the developing world. With a useful temperature range of over 150ÂșC, Cryo-VaccTM is very versatile when compared to even standard refrigeration technology. Every Renergen team member is truly proud to be associated with such an innovative product and we hope that Cryo-VaccTM helps save many lives and restore some normality as the world builds herd immunity,â said Renergen CEO Stefano Marani.
