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Filtration efficiency and breathability of selected face masks, TAPPI Journal September 2023

ABSTRACT: Face masks have been used as physical barriers to stop respiratory infections for many years. Due to insufficient and low supply of certified masks, alternative face covers such as face shields, neck gaiters, and fabric reusable masks gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for these alternate face masks to fulfill their intended function, they must be effective. Additionally, the level of breathability provided by the makeshift masks must be at a certain level. The work reported in this paper was carried out to determine the relationship between filtration efficiency (FE), breathability, and important physical characteristics of mask substrates. The fiber diameter of the core filter layer was determined using a scanning electron microscope. Five types of face masks (two types of N95, two types of surgical masks, and a 100% knitted cotton fabric) were tested for their FE and breathability using moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR). The cotton knitted mask had the lowest FE (5.10%•26.47%), while the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-certified N95 mask had the highest FE values (92.10%•99.65%). However, the cotton mask outperformed the N95 in terms of the pressure drop, meaning higher comfort. In general, the N95 face mask provided the best protection against aerosolized particles. According to the regression analysis, the fiber diameter of the mask filter substrate serves as an important predictor of FE of mask substrates. In this study, it was confirmed that fiber diameter is inversely related to the filtration ability. Results show that compact structure with finer fibers will enable higher filtration efficiency. The study lends itself to developing layered face masks to obtain optimum filters with good filtration, better fit, and acceptable comfort for the wearer.

ABB’s New R&D Center: Perfect Location for the Transformation of the Pulp and Paper Industry, Paper360º September/October 2023

Combustion behaviors of lignin-lean black liquor and lignin, TAPPI JOURNAL July 2015

Combustion behaviors of lignin-lean black liquor and lignin, TAPPI JOURNAL July 2015

Causality of manufacturing processes with significant time

Causality of manufacturing processes with significant time delays, TAPPI JOURNAL November 2015

Technology spotlight: the paper machine of tomorrow - maintenance and engineering, TAPPI JOURNAL, September 1998, Vol. 81(9)

Technology spotlight: the paper machine of tomorrow - maintenance and engineering, TAPPI JOURNAL, September 1998, Vol. 81(9)

Views from the top: ceos offer global perspectives on the pulp and paper industries, TAPPI JOURNAL, August 1999, Vol. 82(8)

Views from the top: ceos offer global perspectives on the pulp and paper industries, TAPPI JOURNAL, August 1999, Vol. 82(8)

Comprehensive safety training programs, TAPPI JOURNAL, July 1996, Vol. 79(7)

Comprehensive safety training programs, TAPPI JOURNAL, July 1996, Vol. 79(7)

On-line corrosion monitoring in kraft white liquor clarifiers, TAPPI JOURNAL, June 1996, Vol. 79(6)

On-line corrosion monitoring in kraft white liquor clarifiers, TAPPI JOURNAL, June 1996, Vol. 79(6)

China: now and in the future, TAPPI JOURNAL, May 1996, Vol. 79(5)

China: now and in the future, TAPPI JOURNAL, May 1996, Vol. 79(5)

Proper design and use of suction roll sealing strips in suction roll operation, TAPPI JOURNAL, November 1996, Vol. 79(11)

Proper design and use of suction roll sealing strips in suction roll operation, TAPPI JOURNAL, November 1996, Vol. 79(11)