Effect of Temperature, Simulated Breathingand Storage Conditions on the Filtration Efficiency of Biodegradable Bioactive Filters

Abstract

In the case of exposure to inhalation of pathogenic microorganisms, it is necessary to usefiltering respiratory protective equipment (FRPE). When this problem concerns the sphere of non-professional use it is important to ensure the disposal of waste equipment in an environmentally safe way. The use of biodegradable nonwovens with biocidal properties in the construction of FRPE could be a good solution to this problem as their degradation time is short in comparison with traditionally used polypropylene. Bioactivity of the nonwoven would ensure the elimination of biological contaminants collected within the filtering material. However, due to the biodegradability, the properties of such materials might change during use. At the same time there are no testing procedures allowing the evaluation of protective parameter changes during the use and storage of FRPE made of biodegradable polymers. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of temperature, simulated breathing and storage conditions on the filtration efficiency of biodegradable bioactive filters prepared by melt-blowing from poly(lactic) acid polymer modified with biocidal agent. The results showed that elevated temperature greatly affects the filtration efficiency of biodegradable filters. A statistically significant decrease in the filtration efficiency after breathing simulation and storage was also observed.