Mask Washing Performance Tests

With the shortage of masks during the coronavirus outbreak, many wonder if there is an effective way to wash, clean and reuse masks. There are companies claiming that washable anti-pollution masks are produced. Some companies claim that they produce washable masks and are able to filter bacteria and germs from the air. However, it is difficult to say that washable masks are very useful. Because the fibers used in mask making are very important. To make N95 and other pollution masks, many companies use a randomly aligned material of very fine fibers. Electrostatic charge is then given to these layers. During the washing process, this static electricity load disappears and the performance of the mask decreases. In addition, vigorous washing also damages the fibers, which facilitates the passage of particles.

However, the common washable mask type uses a washable cotton mask and a non-washable N95 filter. However, this filter cannot be washed. Moreover, replaceable filter masks outperform N95 masks in fit tests.

Another way to wash off masks is to use alcohol. Instead of scrubbing with soap and water, alcohol causes less damage to the mask, because it can be disinfected without rubbing. N95 masks were tested by a group of researchers before and after rubbing with alcohol and left to dry overnight. It has been found that these masks capture 37 percent less particles on average. Generally, masks capture particles of approximately 0,3 micron size using static charged fibers. Cleaning with alcohol removes this burden. However, researchers have found that alcohol sterilization does much less harm.

In short, if N95 masks are washed with soap and water or alcohol, their particle capture efficiency decreases. The truth is that the simplest way to disinfect masks is to do nothing. Just letting the masks dry kills viruses. The important point here is the masks It is how long it takes to wait before it becomes safe.

With the experience gained over many years, our organization also provides mask washing performance test services to the demanding enterprises within the framework of laboratory services of the materials with a trained and expert staff.