Methods of forming an antiviral
facial mask that is capable of not only filtering
pathogen particles, but also deactivating
pathogen particles prior to
exposure by the wearer. Typical facial masks do not deactivate
pathogen particles, but rather merely capture viral particles on an outer surface of the
mask. As such, the masks present a risk of interaction between the
mask wearer and the particles, such as during the removal and / or application of the masks. Methods of forming enhanced antiviral facial masks include the formation of fibers via
electrospinning, such that the fibers include a solution of two oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, surfactants, and
metal ions. In use, water from human breath activates the surfactants to capture and deactivate pathogen particles. Moreover, the strength of the fibers from the oppositely charged polyelectrolytes results in increased lifespans of the masks, as the masks do not breakdown in the presence of
high humidity.