Degradation of “Disposable” Face Masks

Degradation of Single Use “Disposable” Face Masks as It Relates to Effectiveness in Disease Prevention and Associated Mask Hygiene Erika L. Buhk, 2nd-year

Abstract:

Due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic, many Americans are wearing face covering in public to reduce the spread and prevent further outbreak. As a result, controversy has spread regarding the effectiveness and usage of such face coverings.

I conducted research on the degradation of disposable face masks. I utilized electron microscope technology to capture electron level images in contribution to a fabric analysis to compare the fiber degradation of single use ″disposable″ masks. This analysis includes distributions of fabric changes on the SEM images. I used these images paired with research on the functionality of face coverings to highlight the importance of proper mask usage and how common incorrect and re-use can result in adverse health effects.