The Role of Cotton in Face Masks
Cotton is superior to synthetics and other fibre types : a research paper published by International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) reached this clear conclusion about making non-surgical face masks to protect against COVID-19 infection and spread. The critical finding is that cotton’s ability to absorb, dehydrate and deactivate the virus — combined with the fact it’s biodegradable and can be impregnated with antimicrobial nanoparticles — make it the best choice for non-surgical, do-it-yourself face masks.
The coronavirus disease COVID-19 pandemic warrants community protection through personal protective equipment (PPE) that commonly includes a face mask to prevent spread of infection. By early May 2020, wearing face masks for the general public was made mandatory in at least 75 countries that comprise about 88% of the global population. In developing and least-developed countries, face masks are either in short supply, inaccessible or unaffordable for the poor who constitute the majority.
Fabrics made of cotton, polyester and their blends are easily available to prepare home-made nonmedical face masks that are also cost-effective, washable and reusable. Amongst the types of fabrics commonly available, cotton cloth appears to have specific filtration advantages over synthetic fabrics such as polyester because of its unique physical and chemical characteristics. The antimicrobial properties of cotton fabrics can be further strengthened with a nanoparticle-coating over the fibre surface.
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Published: 08/06/2020