Is there an adequate alternative to commercially manufactured face masks? A comparison of various materials and forms.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is a worldwide shortage of medical-grade face masks. Donning masks can play an important role in curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2.

Aim

To conclude whether there is an effective mask for the population to wear in public that could easily be made during a medical face mask shortage using readily available materials.

Methods

We determined the effectiveness of readily available materials and models for making a face mask. The outcomes were compared with N95/FFP2/KN95 masks that entered the Netherlands in April-May 2020. Masks were tested to determine whether they filtered a minimum of 35% of 0.3-μm particles, are hydrophobic, seal on the face, are breathable, and can be washed.

Findings

Fourteen of the 25 (combinations of) materials filtered at lea

SUBMITTER: Teesing GR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7403160 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature