Novel cellulose-based masks with improved breathability and additional disinfection effects
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Mittuniversitetet - Institutionen för kemiteknik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 999 951 |
| Project duration | November 2020 - June 2021 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Collaborative projects for research and innovation associated to the corona pandemic |
| Call | Pre-studies for innovation projects in the health area that prevent future pandemics |
Important results from the project
** Denna text är maskinöversatt ** Highly effective respiratory protection is required to capture virus particles and prevent the spread of infection. By creating self-charging electric filters, the respiratory protection can be made more efficient and the pores in the material larger so that the facemasks also are easier to breathe through. We have combined computer simulations with experiments where we modified filter material of cellulose both molecularly and through coatings to create conditions for electrostatic filtration of virus particles.
Expected long term effects
The enormous spread of covid-19 indicates the importance of effective respiratory protection. We have developed and optimized cellulose-based materials to achieve high electrostatic charge on the surface that should be able to attract particles such as viruses. The results from the experiments and computer simulations demonstrate the potential of our materials as well as the filter technology. We have developed the methodology as a whole, including knowledge-based material choice, manufacturing, and testing in a test facility.
Approach and implementation
Utilizing triboelectricity for particle filtration is an area with great potential but also many challenges. Since five project-partners with complementary expertise were participating, we were able to move forward in the project and we have created a successful team. We were able to deal with all aspects from manufacturing and selection of materials, development of method for surface coating, numerical simulation and design of test systems. In this way, we have also identified new exciting research questions.