Abstract
The coronavirus outbreak that commenced at the end of 2019 has led to a dramatic increase in the demand for face masks. In countries that are experiencing a shortage of face masks as a result of panic buying or inadequate supply, reusable fabric masks have become a popular option, because they are often considered more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than disposable medical masks. Nevertheless, there remains a significant variation in the quality and performance of existing face masks; not all are simultaneously able to provide protection against the extremely contagious virus and be comfortable to wear. This study aims to examine the influential factors that affect the comfort of reusable face masks, but not to assess the antimicrobial or antiviral potential. Seven types of masks were selected in this study and subjected to air and water vapor permeability testing, thermal conductivity testing and a wear trial. The results indicate that washable face masks made of thin layers of knitted fabric with low density and a permeable filter are more breathable. Additionally, masks that contain sufficient highly thermally conductive materials and have good water vapor permeability are often more comfortable to wear as they can transfer heat and moisture from the body quickly, and thus do not easily dampen and deteriorate.
Highlights
The COVID−19 pandemic has prompted panic buying and high levels of demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) in many countries, leading to a global shortage of equipment, especially face masks [1,2,3,4]
Mask breathability and comfort do not depend on one attribute due to their complex composition. They depend on a range of different parameters, such as fabric thickness, structure and density, fiber content, the permeability of the filter, microclimate, and goodness of fit
The overall belief is that washable masks made of thin and low density knitted fabric together with a good permeability filter will be more breathable
Summary
The COVID−19 pandemic has prompted panic buying and high levels of demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) in many countries, leading to a global shortage of equipment, especially face masks [1,2,3,4]. Disposable medical masks are the most common type of face masks used to prevent respiratory infections. They may allow air and micro-organism leakages or cause choking sensations from feelings of suffocation [7,8]. They are not the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective option under the current situation. Many manufacturers and investors have, taken the opportunity to develop reusable and washable face masks to meet market needs. While many newly developed washable masks have been launched in the market, their efficacy is ambiguous
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
