Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are currently developing a heated face mask that can deactivate viruses, including coronavirus.
In a report by The National, the said face mask features a heated copper mesh covered in neoprene. The mask deactivates the viral particles being breathed in by the wearer through its high temperature capabilities. Researchers said this mask can be useful for healthcare workers and for the public going to places where social distancing is difficult to observe. The neoprene, in addition, prevents the outside of the mask from becoming too hot, providing comfort for the wearers.
“We need to be mindful of the safety and comfort of mask users. The air will be cooled after viral inactivation to make the mask comfortable and safe to use.” said MIT graduate student and lead author Samuel Faucher.
Experts noted that one advantage of heated face masks is that since they deactivate the virus, they no longer need to be decontaminated or thrown away after use.
“This is a completely new mask concept in that it doesn’t primarily block the virus. It lets the virus go through the mask, but slows and inactivates it,” The National quoted senior author and MIT chemical engineering professor Michael Strano, as saying.
