Microwave- and heat-based decontamination of N95 filtering facepiece respirators: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In pandemics such as COVID-19, shortages of personal protective equipment are common. One solution may be to decontaminate equipment such as facemasks for reuse.

Aim

To collect and synthesize existing information on decontamination of N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) using microwave and heat-based treatments, with special attention to impacts on mask function (aerosol penetration, airflow resistance), fit, and physical traits.

Methods

A systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42020177036) of literature available from Medline, Embase, Global Health, and other sources was conducted. Records were screened independently by two reviewers, and data was extracted from studies that reported on effects of microwave- or heat-based decontamination on N95 FFR performa

SUBMITTER: Gertsman S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7443086 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature