Abstract:
The use of face masks is advised in order to reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, not everyone knows the differences between different mask types and if they can be reused. In this talk, I will discuss the current state of knowledge on the topic of face masks. I will explain the mechanism of particle filtration and present filtration efficiencies as a function of particle size for commercial respirators and common fabrics used in cloth masks. I will talk about disinfecting N95 masks – how and how many times it can be done without reducing filtration efficiency, according to recent studies. This talk is NOT related to my research. It is based on recent publications in the field of materials science concerning respiratory protection.
Bio:
Jan Grzelak obtained his BSc and MSc in Nanostructure Engineering at the University of Warsaw. Currently he is doing his PhD in Materials Science in the Nanoparticles and Nanocomposites group at ICMAB. His PhD project is focused on synthesis and characterization of mesoporous silica based anisotropic magnetic nanocomposites for biomedical applications. Jan has received “la Caixa” INPhINIT fellowship grant for his PhD studies. His work is supervised by Anna Roig and Martí Gich.
References:
Aerosol Filtration Efficiency of Common Fabrics Used in Respiratory Cloth Masks
Abhiteja Konda, Abhinav Prakash, Gregory A. Moss, Michael Schmoldt, Gregory D. Grant, and Supratik Guha
ACS Nano 2020 14 (5), 6339-6347
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c03252
Can N95 Respirators Be Reused after Disinfection? How Many Times?
Lei Liao, Wang Xiao, Mervin Zhao, Xuanze Yu, Haotian Wang, Qiqi Wang, Steven Chu, and Yi Cui
ACS Nano 2020 14 (5), 6348-6356
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c03597
Face Masks: Materials, Disinfection, and Reuse During COVID-19.
ACS Webinar.
Presented by Supratik Guha, Yi Cui, Laura Cassiday. Produced by the American Chemical Society.
Hosted by Anna Roig and Martí Gich, NN Group, ICMAB
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