Development of highly porous seaweed impregnated facemask substrates for protecting people from microbial hazards

Abstract

The present study reports the development of a biodegradable mask by combined usage of Lessonia nigrescens(a species of brown algae), Rhizoclonium riparium (a cryptogenic macroalga), and Aloe vera (a succulent plant). The proposed face mask is comprised of three stacked layers: an inner hydrophilic layer containing macroalgae, an intermediate layer coated with microalgae extracts, and an outer hydrophobic layer reinforced with Aloe vera and hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS). Experimental investigations confirmed that using seaweed derivatives and Aloe vera plant-based bioactive compounds as coating agents ensures chemical and thermal resilience and can be reused after washing. The ensuring topographic and chemical configurations were characterized through scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The surface wettability of the material was tested by the water contact angle. The resultant facemask products exhibit remarkable water repellency, stain resistance, antimicrobial and antifungal performance against pathogens. Our results suggest that the proposed eco-friendly technique for developing facemask surfaces with inherent antimicrobial and antifungal features might be attractive to personal protective equipment manufacturers and environmental material engineering investigators. The proposed mask offers improved water and aerosol repellency, increased air permeability, and enhanced skin-friendliness compared to masks currently available in the market. Additionally, this innovative mask is suitable for use during mass infections and is designed to be worn for extended periods without causing skin irritation or breathing problems. However, if these features are indeed present in the newly manufactured masks, they could offer significant advantages in terms of protection and comfort in a variety of situations, including outbreaks.