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Evaluation of Particle Filtration Efficiency of Commercially Available Materials for Homemade Face Mask Usage
TAEKYU JOO, Masayuki Takeuchi, Joy Barr, Emily Blum, Eric Parker, John Tipton, Julia Vernedoe, Nga Lee Ng, Georgia Institute of Technology
Abstract Number: 472
Working Group: The Role of Aerosol Science in the Understanding of the Spread and Control of COVID-19 and Other Infectious Diseases
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a severe shortage of personal protective equipment, including N95 respirators. Organizations such as CDC and WHO recommend using homemade masks as a protection for individuals and to reduce the transmission of the virus. Here, we evaluate size-dependent filtration efficiency of sub-micron particles of commercially available materials (N = 24) using sodium chloride aerosols. Specifically, single layer of woven fabrics such as cotton and polyester, blended fabrics, non-woven fabrics, cellulose-based materials, materials used in hospitals, and various filter materials are tested. Different combinations of woven, non-woven, and blended fabrics are also evaluated. The particle filtration efficiency of all materials tested are compared with commercial N95 respirators and surgical masks. Filter materials such as HEPA, MERV 13, and coffee filter report efficient filtration (94-99%, 58-89%, and 31-93%, respectively) compared to the other tested samples. However, we do not recommend using HEPA and MERV 13 filters on their own unless they are certified to be fiberglass-free. The coffee filter exhibits potential breathability issues as indicated by the large pressure drop. Other than these filter materials, we find that Halyard sterilization wrap, tightly woven fabric, and double reinforced crepe show good filtration efficiency (54-85%, 29-63%, and 23-64%, respectively). We observe an improvement in particle filtration efficiency when multiple layers of materials are used. Results from this study provide guidelines for individuals to make better decisions on what materials to use for homemade masks to increase protection against the disease.