Characterization of Materials Used as Face Coverings for Respiratory Protection

Abstract

Use of masks is a primary tool to prevent the spread of the novel COVID-19 virus resulting from unintentional close contact with infected individuals. However, detailed characterization of the chemical properties and physical structure of common mask materials is lacking in the current literature. In this study, a series of commercial masks and potential mask materials, including 3M Particulate Respirator 8210 N95, a material provided by Oak Ridge National Laboratory Carbon Fiber Technology Facility (ORNL/CFTF), and a Filti Face Mask Material, were characterized by a suite of techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Wetting properties of the mask materials were quantified by measurements of contact angle with a saliva substitute. Mask pass-through experiments were performed using a dispersed metal oxide nanoparticle suspension to model the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with quantification via spatially resolved X-ray fluorescence mapping. Notably, all mask materials tested provided a strong barrier against respiratory droplet breakthrough. The comparisons and characterizations provided in this study provide useful information when evaluating mask materials for respiratory protection.

Fabrication of silver nanoparticles-deposited fabrics as a potential candidate for the development of reusable facemasks and evaluation of their performance

“…Therefore, dealing with these diseases has become a global dilemma. So, searching for new and effective compounds with a broad or specific antimicrobial and antiviral spectrum and lower toxicity has recently accelerated 8 , 9 . In the present scenario, nanotechnology-driven products with enhanced surface area-to-volume ratio offer unique physical and chemical properties for different purposes such as antibacterial and antiviral applications 10 – 12 .…”

Development of single‐polypropylene composites interleaved with MWCNT‐doped melt‐blown fine fiber mats

“…During the COVID-19 pandemic, melt-blowing also gained a lot of attention since this is the most popular method for making the nonwoven filtering layer of protective facemasks and respirators. [8][9][10] Melt-blowing is a single-step process that directly forms microfibers from a molten polymer through pressurized hot air. If the parameters are set wisely, then submicron and even nanofibers can be produced this way.…”

Large-Scale Blow Spinning of Nanofiber Membranes for Highly Efficient Air Mechanical Filtration with Antibacterial Activity

“…At present, the commercial filtration fibrous membrane is usually manufactured with polypropylene (PP), polyester (PES), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), or polyethylene (PE) by the means of the melt-blown process with scalable productivity. − Among them, the PP melt-blown fibrous membrane is the most common and mature for air filtration, which relies on electrostatic adsorption and multilayer structures to achieve effective filtration. , To obtain surface electrostatic charge, electrets such as PTFE or PVDF are usually added to the PP solution, followed by corona poling. However, the filtration efficiency would reduce sharply after multiple cycles of washing and drying or continuous use or storage as the surface electrostatic charge cannot be maintained for a long time .…”