Suara.com – Face mask Surgical facemasks are currently prioritized for medical personnel. Meanwhile, people can use other types of face masks to reduce the spread of the Corona virus (Covid-19).
Face masks are scarce, prompting most people to make their own from easily available ingredients, and it is important to know which types of artificial face masks are most effective.
In a recent study, para scientist from the University of Cambridge and Northwestern University, examined the effectiveness of various masks and cloths on virus particles of 0.02 and 0.1 micrometers at the cough rates of adults.
In addition, the experts evaluated the respiratory resistance of each mask material to see which material is most suitable to be used as a face mask so that the user does not feel cramped when using it.
Also Read:
Unmasked officers were reprimanded, instead saying ‘Masks are for the sick, right?’
“There is panic about how effective other types of face masks are. As an engineer, I wanted to learn more about that, how well different materials work in different conditions and what is most effective,” said Eugenia O’Kelly of the Department of Engineering at University of Cambridge, as quoted IFL Science, Saturday (31/10/2020).
The experts’ findings suggest that face masks, made of ordinary, layered fabrics, can help filter out very fine particles and provide protection for the wearer when commercial face masks are not available.
For the study, a team of experts contacted an online tailoring group to see what materials they had tested, to make their own face masks, from vacuum bags to denim jeans and folded socks.
Although many homemade mask materials are effective at blocking particles, they are not suitable for use as masks because of their respiratory resistance when tested by team members.
“Masks that block particles very well but limit breathability are not effective masks. Denim, for example, is quite effective at blocking particles, but difficult to breathe, so it might not be a good idea to make a face mask out of old jeans,” O added. ‘Kelly.
Also Read:
New Study: Masks Can Significantly Reduce the Spread of Corona Virus
Scientists hope the data presented will help many people who do not have access to purchase or obtain commercial masks. As other studies have shown, layered fabrics appear to be most effective for homemade masks.
–
