Science12 Nov 2020 12:06
Scientists develop facemask which can kill viruses on contact
A new antiviral facemask which uses nanotechnology to kill viruses including COVID-19 and influenza has been designed and developed by a Nottingham Trent University scientist. Instead of the usual three-ply design, the five-ply surgical mask includes an additional antiviral inner layer which incorporates nano-copper created using a patented process developed at the university. The copper, which is embedded into the mask material, has ions that are emitted once in contact with a virus and this then creates an interaction with the virus's genetic material causing it to die and stop reproducing. Because they are spherical, nanoparticles have a large surface area making the approach more effective at killing the virus. The antiviral inner layer ensures additional protection for both the wearer and those in proximity.