Masks with one or more nanofiber layers

Abstract

Masks and methods utilizing nanofibers are provided. The provided masks and methods reduce pressure drop and improve filtration of airborne particles. In one embodiment, there is a mask comprising: an inner layer comprising a non-woven fibrous material configured to contact a wearer's nose and mouth; an intermediate layer disposed on the inner layer and comprising a nanofiber material; disposed between layer and comprising an outer layer of non-woven fibrous material, the mask has an upper edge and a lower edge and at least one pleat, the at least one pleat is disposed between at least the upper edge and the lower edge, and is configured to fit when unfolded On the chin of the wearer, the at least one pleat is configured to fold and unfold the mask such that the mask is configured to assume a generally flat storage configuration when folded, and the mask is configured to cover at least the nose and mouth of the wearer when unfolded.

Description

Background technique [0001] Recently, there has been a growing interest in reducing the risk of infection not only in nursing homes, hospitals, and hospices throughout the country, but also in doctors' and dentists' offices, and in non-sanitary medical settings such as shopping malls, offices, schools, and other places where people gather There is great interest in different approaches. Hygienic and non-sanitary healthcare environments contain different numbers of microorganisms that can cause infection. Microorganisms (eg, bacteria, fungi, yeasts, molds, and viruses) in the air and water, on surfaces, on the skin, in bodily fluids (eg, blood, saliva, secretions, wound exudate), and other sources often contribute to the spread of infection biggest player. Not only patients, but also visitors, nurses, doctors or other health care workers and non-health care workers who come into contact with these infectious agents are at risk of endemic infection. [0002] Medical knowledge...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Sometimes, healthcare and non-healthcare workers even wear the mask inside out or upside down, causing poor fit and gaps in the mask that potentially expose themselves and others to infection-causing microbes

[0004] Many healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers alike sometimes complain that traditional masks are uncomfortable and often do not stay in place during use

This can lead to poor fit and further discomfort to the wearer

[0005] In addition, current medical masks have a high pressure drop between the inside and outside of the mask because the filter material prohibits the passage of air

This high pressure drop is uncomfortable for the wearer due to the increased temperature inside the mask

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