A quantitative analysis of 3D printed face shields and masks during COVID-19 [version 1; peer review: 2 approved]

ABSTRACT: In response to shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, makers, community groups and manufacturers around the world utilised 3D printing to fabricate items, including face shields and face masks for healthcare workers and the broader community. In reaction to both local and global needs, numerous designs emerged and were shared online. In this paper, 37 face shields and 31 face masks suitable for fused filament fabrication were analysed from a fabrication perspective, documenting factors such as filament use, time to print and geometric qualities. 3D print times for similar designs varied by several hours, meaning some designs could be produced in higher volumes. Overall, the results show that face shields were approximately twice as fast to 3D print c

SUBMITTER: Novak J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7391928 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature