Korean Researchers Develop Biodegradable Mask To Tackle Global Waste Problem
Image via Shutterstock
A South Korean research team has designed a mask that is 100-percent biodegradable, breathable, and reusable.
The Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology has created a new concept of biodegradable mask filter with N95 performance using polybutylene succinate (PBS), an aliphatic polyester. According to the institute, the filter can fully decompose in just 30 days.
Incorporating PBS filters in masks allows for better breathability and the ability to withstand humidity, the research team explained.
They first extract fabrics of the biodegradable plastic before laying them on top of each other to produce a non-woven fabric. These fabrics are then coated with chitosan nanowhiskers to intercept fine dust.
This newly-designed filter is capable of intercepting 98.3 percent of all viruses and fine dust, similar to the N95 protective mask filters.
In a test for biodegradability, the mask filters also fully decomposed in 28 days in composting soil.
▪ BIODEGRADABLE MASK FILTERS
— Arirang News (@arirangtvnews) March 23, 2021
Korean research institute develops biodegradable face mask filter#develop #biodegradable #face_mask_filter pic.twitter.com/CCsTUmNXSO
Image via Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology / Wiley Online Library (CC BY 4.0)
Image via Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology / Wiley Online Library (CC BY 4.0)
[via HYPEBEAST, images via various sources]
Also check out these recent news
