Review of the valorization options for the proper disposal of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected not only human health and economies but also the environment due to the large volume of waste in the form of discarded personal protective equipment. The remarkable increase in the global usage of face masks, which mainly contain polypropylene, and improper waste management have led to a serious environmental challenge called microplastic pollution. Potential practices for waste management related to waste valorization of discarded face masks as the major type of waste during the COVID-19 pandemic are explored in this study. Recommendations based on governmental practices, situation of state facilities, and societal awareness and engagement applicable to emergency (including COVID-19 pandemic) and postpandemic scenarios are offered while considering potential solutions and available waste management practices in different countries during emergency conditions. However, multicriteria decision making for a country must determine the optimal solution for waste management on the basis of all affecting factors. Awareness of scientific, governments, and communities worldwide will successfully eradicate this important environmental issue.

The face behind the Covid-19 mask — A comprehensive review

“…Furthermore, the high operating temperatures of the carbonization process can adequately disinfect all possible contamination and pathogenic presence. Carbonisation of used face masks has recently been investigated for potential use in supercapacitors and adsorbents ( Asim et al, 2021 ).…”

“…Currently, enormous quantities of polypropylene-based facemasks is being disposed into the environment on a regular basis. A promising economically viable alternative is the valorisation of such materials by employing them for treating wastewater ( Asim et al, 2021 ).…”

“…The use of these discarded materials in the preparation of concrete solves the financial element of inertia or stability, and also assures the manufacture of better versions of concrete. Nevertheless, before being used as a construction material, potentially contaminated PPE should be disinfected as part of the safety protocol ( Asim et al, 2021 )…”

“…As a result, proper disposal is essential to mitigate the adverse impact of masks on human wellbeing and the ecosystem. Asim et al (2021) , proposed multiple approaches for effective disposal, enhanced management and sustained reuse of discarded face masks including pyrolysis, incineration, valorisation, etc. While, many developing countries are still practicing open-air burning to manage these wastes, on the other end of the spectrum, advanced economies recycle the discarded face masks into pavement bases, building materials, fillers, porous sound absorbers, etc.…”

Alternating magnetic field initiated catalytic deconstruction of medical waste to produce hydrogen-rich gases and graphite

“… 10 , 11 , 12 , 18 Jung et al. 21 and others 22 , 23 , 24 have reported a novel two-step heterogeneous catalytic approach for thermal decomposition of medical waste to obtain hydrogen-rich gases. In this two-stage process ( Figure 1 B), the plastic polymer in medical waste is first decomposed into vapor/gas mixture (small hydrocarbons) via high-temperature pyrolysis, and then the vapor/gas mixture is further catalytically cracked (>750°C) for syngas production (e.g., H 2 , CH 4 , and C 2 H 4 ).…”