Valorization of hazardous COVID-19 mask waste while minimizing hazardous byproducts using catalytic gasification

Agro-residual biomass and disposable protective face mask: a merger for converting waste to plastic-fiber fuel via an integrative carbonization-pelletization framework

“…In addition, the nose frame or band consisted of 4.55% iron. Brillard et al [ 39 ], Lee et al [ 38 ], and Farooq et al [ 40 ] also characterized the SFM for recovery of energy via pyrolysis and catalytic gasification. By analyzing these independent studies, we could identify quantities of moisture, volatile matter, solid carbon, and ash in ranges of 0–2.1, 81.3–85.9, 9.2–11.7, and 0.3–9.5%, respectively.…”

“…The composition of SFM varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Although such a protective device can contain up to 9.5% ash [ 40 ], it can release 56.3 MJ kg −1 [ 38 ]. Brillard et al [ 39 ] measured approximately 23.6 MJ kg −1 from burning SFM with 0.3% ash, which is consistent with our record.…”

Environmental impacts of covid-19 pandemic: Release of microplastics, organic contaminants and trace metals from face masks under ambient environmental conditions

“…It is notable that hand sanitizers, hand gloves, face shield and face masks were recommended to curb the spread of the virus. This led to a widespread use of these items, resulting in the release of an unprecedentedly huge amount of plastic wastes into the environment (Oceans Asia, 2021 ; Farooq et al, 2022 ). The medical test kits, produced and packaged in plastic containers, have also added to the environmental burden of plastic wastes emanating from the pandemic.…”

Emerging membrane technologies and disinfection methods for efficient removal of waterborne pathogens during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic

“…The COVID-19 outbreak, which was caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has resulted in great global concern in the scientific and health communities, and in the general public. 1–3 In particular, more recently a new variant of this virus, the Delta variant, which was first identified in India, has been spreading rapidly throughout the world. To date, it has been reported in more than 80 countries.…”