Apparatus and method for providing a single-layer pathogen-killing barrier between a first region and a second region.

Abstract

A technique is provided for providing a barrier treated with a pathogen-killing component, which is placed between a first and a second region and prevents the transmission of pathogens (e.g., viral particles) between the first and second regions by killing or inactivating them. [Solution] The barrier comprises a single layer treated with a pathogenic component. The single layer comprises a first surface oriented toward a first region and an outer surface coated with the pathogenic component so that pathogens within the first region can penetrate the outer surface of the first surface. The single layer also comprises a second surface oriented toward a second region and an outer surface coated with the pathogenic component so that pathogens within the second region can penetrate the outer surface of the second surface. The pathogenic component coated on the outer surfaces of the first and second surfaces inactivates pathogens that penetrate the outer surfaces of the first and second surfaces, respectively.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application asserts the interests of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 101,894, filed on 21 May 2021 under Section 119(e) of the U.S. Patent Act, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, with respect to its disclosures being fully described herein. [Background technology]

[0002] In general, pathogens such as viruses and bacteria are known to be easily transmitted from person to person through direct and indirect contact. An example of direct transmission is when pathogens are aerosolized when someone exhales, coughs, or sneezes, and then transmitted to another person. Indirect transmission occurs when pathogens are present on an intermediary surface such as a doorknob, countertop, or tabletop, or when they come into contact with an individual's hands. [Overview of the project]

[0003] A technique is provided for providing a barrier treated with a pathogen-killing component, which is placed between a first and a second region and prevents the transmission of pathogens (e.g., viral particles) between the first and second regions by killing or inactivating them.

[0004] The inventors recognized that various conventional masks can be used to attempt to prevent the transmission of pathogens between two areas. In one embodiment, a conventional mask can be used that provides an inner layer treated with a pathogenic component (e.g., a virucidal component) sandwiched between two outer layers that are not treated with a pathogenic component. While the inner layer of such a conventional mask is used to kill or inactivate pathogens, the untreated outer layers become contaminated upon contact with pathogens. As a result, when a user touches or removes the mask, their hands may become contaminated, and subsequently they may contaminate themselves (e.g., by touching their face) or other surfaces (e.g., by touching such surfaces). Furthermore, the inventors recognized that disposing of a contaminated mask can cause further contamination of other surfaces that come into contact with the outer layer during disposal. To overcome these shortcomings of conventional masks, the inventors have developed a single-layer barrier treated with a pathogenic component that can be worn on the face as a face cover. This improved single-layer barrier effectively kills or inactivates invading pathogens while minimizing the risk of barrier contamination. Therefore, the improved single-layer barrier minimizes the risk of contamination for the user (e.g., when touching or disposing of the barrier) and the risk of contamination of other surfaces (e.g., when the barrier is disposed of).

[0005] The inventors recognized the shortcomings of conventional masks. For example, conventional masks contain multiple layers, which significantly limits breathability and ease of breathing. This can have health effects on individuals suffering from respiratory illnesses (e.g., asthma). Furthermore, wearing such conventional masks may be required during sports activities (e.g., by laws and / or regulations to control viral pandemics), which can significantly restrict the breathing of athletes. To overcome this significant drawback of conventional masks, the inventors have developed a single-layer barrier that can be worn on the face and is treated with a pathogen-killing component. The improved single-layer barrier consists of only a single layer, thereby providing significantly higher breathability and ease of breathing compared to conventional masks, while also having the effect of killing or inactivating pathogens at least.

[0006] The inventors also recognized another drawback of conventional masks. For example, during a viral pandemic, it is well known that certain masks used by healthcare workers (e.g., N95) are in short supply. This shortage is likely due to the high frequency with which masks are discarded after a certain number of uses. While there are certain methods that can be used to sterilize masks after multiple uses, such sterilization methods damage the mask material and affect the mask's performance when reused. To overcome this well-known drawback of certain mask shortages, the inventors have developed a single-layer barrier treated with a pathogenic component that can be used to encapsulate conventional masks (e.g., N95) to minimize mask contamination. This effectively extends the lifespan of conventional masks and reduces the occurrence of shortages of conventional masks. Furthermore, the single-layer barrier also improves other methods (e.g., sterilization) that can affect the performance of conventional masks when reused.

[0007] The inventors noted that previous mask inventions were also part of attempts to reduce transmission. However, masks have limitations in that their outer surface (facing away from the user) and inner surface (facing the user) are contaminated by either the environment or the user, and individuals must properly remove and dispose of the mask to avoid infection. This creates a risk for the user and, similarly, for others through indirect transmission. Furthermore, in pandemic situations, personal protective equipment is scarce, forcing many individuals to reuse protective masks, and often there is no reliable means of sterilizing masks for reuse. In addition, some sterilization methods cause damage to the mask fibers, thereby reducing their pathogen filtering effectiveness. When masks are scarce, many individuals are forced to use simple cloth face coverings, but these are unreliable for preventing airborne transmission and still pose a risk of indirect transmission when removed.

[0008] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a mask cover incorporating pathogenic components (e.g., antiviral and / or antibacterial components) that provides protection to both the outer and inner surfaces of the mask, preventing / reducing contamination of the mask, thereby improving safety when reuse becomes necessary, and reducing the risk of indirect transmission when the cover is removed and discarded by inactivating or destroying pathogens. When a mask is unavailable, an individual may choose to use the present invention as a face cover, providing a certain level of safety through the incorporated pathogenic and antibacterial components.

[0009] In a first series of embodiments, a barrier is provided that is positioned between a first region and a second region to prevent pathogens from passing through between the first and second regions. The barrier comprises a single layer treated with a pathogenic component. The single layer comprises a first surface oriented toward the first region, the first surface comprising an outer surface coated with the pathogenic component to allow pathogens within the first region to penetrate. The single layer further comprises a second surface oriented toward the second region, the second surface comprising an outer surface coated with the pathogenic component to allow pathogens within the second region to penetrate. The pathogenic components coated on the outer surfaces of the first and second surfaces are configured to inactivate pathogens that penetrate the outer surfaces of the first and second surfaces, respectively.

[0010] In a second series of embodiments, a face cover worn by a user is provided. The face cover includes a barrier according to the first series of embodiments and a secondary layer, which is not treated with a pathogenic component, placed between a single layer of the second surface and the user's face. The barrier is configured to inactivate pathogens entering from the user's external environment and to prevent contamination of the secondary layer.

[0011] A third set of embodiments provides a method for forming a barrier according to the first set of embodiments. The method comprises wetting a material with a solution containing a pathogenic component having a concentration of a certain value for a first time. The method further comprises drying the material for a second time after the first time has elapsed. The method further comprises measuring the permeability value of the dried material after the second time has elapsed. The method further comprises comparing the measured permeability value with a permeability threshold. The method further comprises forming a single layer using the dried material from step b) based on the measured permeability value being greater than the permeability threshold.

[0012] Other aspects, features, and advantages will become readily apparent from the following detailed description by merely illustrating several specific embodiments and implementations, including the best mode intended for carrying out the invention. Other embodiments will have other different features and advantages, and their details may be modified in various obvious ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, such drawings and description should be considered illustrative and not restrictive. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] The attached drawings describe embodiments as examples, not as limitations, and similar components are indicated by the same reference numerals in these drawings.

[0014] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a single barrier layer having a pathogenic component between a first region and a second region according to one embodiment.

[0015] [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is an image showing an example of a perspective view of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1 when worn as a face cover, according to one embodiment.

[0016] [Figure 2B]Figure 2B is an image showing an example of a perspective view of the single barrier layer described in FIG. 1 worn as a face cover according to an embodiment.

[0017] [Figure 2C] Figure 2C is an image showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line 2C-2C of the single barrier layer described in FIG. 2A.

[0018] [Figure 2D] Figure 2D is an image showing an example of a front view of the oval-shaped face cover described in FIG. 2A according to an embodiment.

[0019] [Figure 2E] Figure 2E is an image showing an example of a front view of the face cover described in FIG. 2A with a stretchable material fastener attached according to an embodiment.

[0020] [Figure 2F] Figure 2F is an image showing an example of a front view of the bow-shaped face cover described in FIG. 2A according to an embodiment.

[0021] [Figure 2G] Figure 2G is an image showing an example of a front view of a stretchable material fastener for fixing the face cover described in FIG. 2F to the face according to an embodiment.

[0022] [Figure 2H] Figure 2H is an image showing an example of a rear view of the face cover described in FIG. 2F having a stretchable material for attachment to the face according to an embodiment.

[0023] [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is an image showing an example of a perspective view of a face cover including the single barrier layer described in FIG. 1 covering a mask according to an embodiment.

[0024] [Figure 3B]Figure 3B is an image showing an example of a cross-sectional view of the face cover described in Figure 3A along the line 3B-3B.

[0025] [Figure 3C] Figure 3C is an image showing an example of a perspective view of a face cover containing the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, in a state in which a mask is enclosed, according to one embodiment.

[0026] [Figure 3D] Figure 3D is an image showing an example of a cross-sectional view of the face cover described in Figure 3C along a 3D-3D line.

[0027] [Figure 3E] Figure 3E is an image showing an example of a front view of the single layer described in Figure 3C before the mask is enclosed, according to one embodiment.

[0028] [Figure 3F] Figure 3F is an image showing an example of a rear view of the single layer described in Figure 3A before the mask is enclosed, according to one embodiment.

[0029] [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, used as an air filter in an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0030] [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of an air filter for the air conditioning system described in Figure 4A, according to one embodiment.

[0031] [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, used to form clothing worn by healthcare workers, according to one embodiment.

[0032] [Figure 6]Figure 6 is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, used as a filter in a ventilator according to one embodiment.

[0033] [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for forming the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, according to one embodiment.

[0034] [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is an image showing an example of a graph illustrating the X-ray diffraction (XRD) intensity of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, according to one embodiment.

[0035] [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is an image showing examples of the various Miller indices used in XRD, as shown in the graph in Figure 8A.

[0036] [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is an image showing an example of light scattering of particles downstream of a conventional mask according to one embodiment.

[0037] [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is an image showing an example of light scattering of particles downstream of a conventional surgical mask according to one embodiment.

[0038] [Figure 9C] Figure 9C is an image showing an example of light scattering of particles downstream of the single barrier layer of the face cover described in Figure 2A, according to one embodiment.

[0039] [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an image showing an example of a graph illustrating the viral filtration efficiency (VFE) of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1, according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0040] A method and apparatus for providing a barrier comprising a single layer treated with a pathogenic component, located between a first and second region and preventing the passage of pathogens between the first and second regions, is described. In the following description, numerous specific details are shown for illustrative purposes to allow for a full understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can be carried out without using these specific details. Otherwise, well-known structures and apparatuses are shown in block diagrams to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention.

[0041] Some embodiments of the present invention relate to a barrier positioned between a first region and a second region to prevent the passage or transmission of pathogens between the first region and the second region, and are described below. However, the present invention is not limited to those relating thereto and includes a barrier comprising a single layer having a pathogenic component, positioned between a first region and a second region to prevent the passage or transmission of viral particles between the first region and the second region.

[0042] For convenience of explanation, “barrier” means a single layer of material treated with a pathogenic substance (e.g., a virucidal or bactericidal component), placed between a first and second region, and preventing or reducing the transmission of pathogens between the first and second regions. For convenience of explanation, “single layer” means a single layer of material and does not include multiple layers of material or additional layers of other material. For convenience of explanation, “pathogenic component” means any chemical substance or molecule that has the ability or tendency to destroy or inactivate pathogens, including but not limited to virucidal and bactericidal components. For convenience of explanation, “virucidal component” means any chemical substance or molecule that has the ability or tendency to destroy or inactivate viruses. For convenience of explanation, “bactericidal component” means any chemical substance or molecule that has the ability or tendency to destroy or inactivate bacteria. For convenience of explanation, “mask” means a conventional face mask (e.g., an N95 mask) worn to reduce the transmission of pathogens, and which includes multiple layers of material. For the sake of clarity, “face cover” means a cover worn to cover the face, including any barrier disclosed herein.

[0043] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a mask cover or face cover that is suitable for wear, is treated with a compound designed to prevent the passage of viruses and bacteria, and destroys viruses and bacteria. By reducing mask contamination, the cover allows the user to reuse the mask, whether it be a surgical mask, an N95 mask, a KN95 mask, a P100 mask, or any other mask that the individual may use. Because the present invention is treated with a compound designed to kill viruses and bacteria, it also reduces environmental contamination of the user upon disposal.

[0044] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a barrier 100 positioned between a first region 102 and a second region 104. In one embodiment, a pathogen 110 (e.g., a virus particle in an aerosol droplet) enters the barrier 100 from the first region 102. In another embodiment, a pathogen 111 (e.g., a virus particle in an aerosol droplet) enters the barrier 100 from the second region 104. Figure 1 shows pathogens 110 and 111 entering the single layer 101 from both regions 102 and 104, but in some embodiments, only one of the pathogens 110 or 111 enters the single layer 101 from either region 102 or 104.

[0045] In one embodiment, the barrier 100 includes a single layer 101 positioned between a first region 102 and a second region 104. As shown in Figure 1, in one embodiment, the single layer 101 extends along the interface between the first and second regions 102, 104 for a distance sufficient to prevent pathogens 110, 111 from passing through between the first and second regions 102, 104. This distance that the single layer 101 extends along the interface between the first and second regions 102, 104 depends on the specific arrangement and circumstances of the first and second regions 102, 104. In one embodiment, the single layer 101 consists only of a single layer of material and does not include an additional layer positioned between the first region 102 and the second region 104. In one exemplary embodiment, the single layer 101 includes a layer of woven or nonwoven material, comprising one or more of the following: microfibril cloth, tightly woven cotton cloth, absorbent cellulose fiber layer, woven fabric, cloth, polymer laid fabric (e.g., nonwoven and meltblown), dry laid nonwoven and wet laid nonwoven. In one exemplary embodiment, polypropylene is preferred as the material for the single layer 101. In one exemplary embodiment, the single layer 101 includes pores having dimensions within a specific range (e.g., about 4 microns, and / or in the range of about 3 to about 5 microns, and / or in the range of about 2 to about 6 microns).

[0046] In one embodiment, a single layer 101 contains a pathogenic component 112 within the layer. In one embodiment, the single layer 101 is treated with the pathogenic component 112 using a method described later. In one embodiment, the single layer 101 is treated with a single virucidal and / or bactericidal component or a combination thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, the component comprises one or more acids, salts, or esters. In one exemplary embodiment, the component comprises citric acid, carboxylic acid, or any mineral acid. In another exemplary embodiment, the component comprises one or more citrate esters, vitamin C esters, pyruvate, citrate, isocitrate, ketoglutaric acid, succinate ester, fumarate ester, malate, oxaloacetate, or basic components (e.g., soap, sodium lauryl sulfate, quaternary ammonium salts, cations, anions, and nonionic surfactants, or tallow amines). In one exemplary embodiment, the concentration of the acidic component may be in the range of about 11% to about 100% of the acid, salt, or ester, and the concentration of the basic component may be in the range of about 0.1% to about 10% of the surfactant, salt, or ester. In yet another exemplary embodiment, other pathogenic components that may be used (e.g., antiviral and / or bactericidal components) include NaCl, disodium EDTA zinc, copper, nickel, iodine, manganese, tin, boron, or silver, their salts, their chelates, their chilactants, their surfactant linkers, or their ions. In one exemplary embodiment, the antiviral component of a metal may be a 1% to 100% solution, and colloids and phycocolloids may be used.

[0047] In another embodiment, a single layer 101 is treated with a pathogenic component 112 over its entire thickness (where thickness is the dimension perpendicular to the interface between regions 102 and 104, extending from the first region 102 to the second region 104). As shown in Figure 1, in one embodiment, the single layer 101 is treated with a pathogenic component 112 over its entire thickness, from the outer surface 108 of the first surface 106 of the single layer 101 to the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116 of the single layer 101. In one exemplary embodiment, the pathogenic component 112 comprises one or more salts, acids, and esters. Figure 1 is not drawn to scale, and therefore a portion of the single layer 101 does not contain the pathogenic component 112. This is simply for the sake of simplifying the figure, and in one embodiment, the pathogenic component 112 is distributed along the length of the single layer 101 across the interface between regions 102 and 104 (for example, uniformly distributed along its entire length).

[0048] In one exemplary embodiment, since virus particles typically enter the single layer 101 by entering a water droplet (e.g., an aerosol), salt is effective as a virucidal component to kill and / or inactivate the virus particles. When a water droplet containing virus particles comes into contact with the single layer 101, salt crystals within the single layer 101 dissolve in the water droplet. Over time, as the water droplet evaporates, the volume of water containing the virus particles decreases, resulting in an increase in the relative salt concentration. Once the salt concentration reaches a sufficient level, the salt inactivates and / or kills the virus particles.

[0049] In one embodiment, the first surface 106 of the single layer 101 is oriented toward the first region 102. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 108 of the first surface 106 is coated with a pathogenic component 112 and oriented toward the first region 102 so that pathogens 110 in the first region 102 penetrate the outer surface 108 of the first surface 106. In another exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 108 of the first surface 106 is the first surface to come into contact with pathogens 110 penetrating the single layer 101 (for example, none of the other layers, surfaces, or components of the barrier 100 come into contact with pathogens 110 before the outer surface 108).

[0050] In one embodiment, the second surface 116 of a single layer 101 is oriented toward a second region 104. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 118 of the second surface 108 is coated with a pathogenic component 112 and is oriented toward the second region 102 so that pathogens 111 in the second region 104 penetrate the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116. In another exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116 is the first surface to come into contact with pathogens 111 penetrating the second surface 116 (for example, none of the other layers, surfaces, or components of the barrier 100 come into contact with pathogens 111 before the outer surface 118). In one exemplary embodiment, the pathogenic component 112 coated on the outer surfaces 108, 118 of the first surface 106 and the second surface 116 is configured to inactivate pathogens 110, 111 (e.g., virus particles in an aerosol) that enter the outer surfaces 108, 118 of the first surface 106 and the second surface 116, respectively.

[0051] In one embodiment, the pathogenic component 112 contains a salt of a certain degree of crystallinity over the thickness of a single layer 101 from the outer surface 108 of the first surface 106 to the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116. In one embodiment, the degree of crystallinity of the salt is measured based on X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, which will be described later with respect to Figures 8A and 8B.

[0052] In one embodiment, the single layer 101 has permeability greater than a permeability threshold. In one embodiment, permeability is based on the difference in air pressure values ​​before and after the single layer 101 (e.g., between the first surface 106 and the second surface 116), based on the airflow passing through the single layer 101 at a constant flow rate (e.g., about 8 L / min or in the range of about 4 L / min to about 12 L / min). In one exemplary embodiment, the permeability of the single layer 101 is an air pressure difference of about 0.2 mmH2O / cm 2 In another exemplary embodiment, the air permeability is such that the air pressure difference is approximately 0.1 mmH2O / cm². 2 It is something that is less than [a certain value].

[0053] In one embodiment, the single layer 101 has a virus filtration efficiency that exceeds a filtration efficiency threshold (e.g., 85%) between the first and second regions 102 and 104. In one embodiment, the virus filtration efficiency of the single layer 101 is at least 95% between the first region 102 and the second region 104.

[0054] In one embodiment, the single layer 101 is used as a face cover. Figure 2A is an image showing an example of a perspective view of the single barrier layer 101 described in Figure 1 when worn as a face cover 200 according to one embodiment. In one exemplary embodiment, the face cover 200 includes a single layer 101 having dimensions sufficient to cover the face (e.g., mouth and nose) of the user 203. In one exemplary embodiment, the height of the single layer 101 is in the range of approximately 10 cm and / or approximately 5 cm to approximately 20 cm, and / or the width of the single layer 101 is in the range of approximately 21 cm and / or approximately 15 cm to approximately 25 cm, and / or the thickness of the single layer 101 is in the range of approximately 3 mm and / or approximately 2 mm to approximately 4 mm and / or approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 5 mm. These numerical dimension ranges for the single layer 101 are merely examples of numerical dimension ranges, and numerical dimensions may be selected from outside these ranges.

[0055] In this embodiment, the first region is the external environment 202 of the user 203 of the face cover 200. Therefore, in this embodiment, the outer surface 108 of the first face 106 is oriented toward the external environment 202 (see Figure 2A). Also in this embodiment, the second region 204 is the face of the user 203 (e.g., the region between the face of the user 203 and the face cover 200). In this embodiment, the face cover 200 includes a single layer 101 that functions as a barrier 100 that prevents pathogens 110 from passing from the external environment 202 to the user 203 (e.g., preventing the user 203 from being contaminated by the external environment 202) and / or prevents pathogens 111 from passing from the user 203 to the external environment 202 (e.g., preventing the external environment 202 from being contaminated by the user 203).

[0056] In one embodiment, the face cover 200 is secured to the user 203's face using ear loops 206. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this design. Figure 2B is an image showing an example of a perspective view of the single barrier layer 101 described in Figure 1 as worn as a face cover 200' according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, unlike the face cover 200 described in Figure 2A, which is attached to the user 203's face using ear loops 206, the face cover 200' described in Figure 2B is attached to the user 203's face by directly sticking or adhering the face cover 200' to the user 203's face (for example, without using ear loops 206). In one exemplary embodiment, an adhesive 208 is provided on the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116 such that the second surface 116 is attached directly to the user 203's face using the adhesive 208. In one exemplary embodiment, the adhesive 208 is a mixture of isopropanol and partially hydrogenated rosin, for example, 80% by weight and 20% by weight, respectively. In one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 2B, the adhesive 208 is provided along the outer periphery of the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116, such that the adhesive 208 ensures a seal between the single layer 101 and the user 203 when the second surface 116 is directly attached to the user 203's face. In one exemplary embodiment, the adhesive 208 is an elongated strip along the periphery with a width of approximately 1.5 cm and / or in the range of approximately 0.5 cm to approximately 2 cm. The inventors have recognized that the face cover 200' is clearly superior to the face cover 200 using ear loops 206. For example, it reduces the risk of infection by preventing air leakage around the edges of the single layer 101, thereby reducing the risk when the user 203 inhales (reducing user infection) or exhales (reducing infection from the external environment). Furthermore, other advantages of the Face Cover 200' include improved comfort and the fact that the ear loops 206 do not need to be removed in certain situations (e.g., when getting a haircut), as well as other benefits (e.g., reduced fogging of glasses).

[0057] Figure 2C is an image showing an example of a cross-sectional view of the single barrier layer 101 described in Figure 2A along the 2C-2C line. In one embodiment, Figure 2C also shows a cross-sectional view of the single layer 101 described in Figure 2B. The cross-sectional view in Figure 2C is at only one point in the height of the face cover 200 (for example, between the upper and lower ends of the face cover 200 that are in contact with the user 203). As shown in Figure 2C, in one embodiment, the second region 204 is located between the face of the user 203 and the outer surface 118 of the second surface 116. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 2C, a pathogen 210 enters the outer surface 108 of the face cover 200 from the external environment 202, and the pathogenicidal component 112 coated on the outer surface 108 is configured to kill and / or inactivate the invading pathogen 210. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 2C, a pathogen 211 enters the outer surface 118 of the face cover 200 from the user's face 203, and the pathogenicidal component 112 coated on the outer surface 118 is configured to kill and / or inactivate the invading pathogen 211.

[0058] In yet another embodiment, the face cover 200 can be attached to user 203 using a fastener (e.g., elastic material) that secures it around the user's head. Figures 2D and 2E are images showing an example of a face cover 200'' configured to be secured to user 203's face using a fastener (e.g., elastic material 230). In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 2D, the face cover 200'' is elliptical in shape, with a major radius 222 having a value in the range of about 38 centimeters (cm) or about 30 cm to about 40 cm, and a minor radius 224 having a value in the range of about 20 cm and / or about 15 cm to about 25 cm.

[0059] In another embodiment, the face cover 200'' is circular in shape, as shown in Figure 2E. In one embodiment, the elastic material 230 is attached to two anchor points 232a, 232b of the face cover 200''. In one exemplary embodiment, the anchor points 232a, 232b are along the outer circumference of the outer surface 118 facing the user 203. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of the elastic material 230 is adjustable so that the face cover 200'' fits various users 203. In another embodiment, the face cover 200'' is secured to the user 203 by first bringing the outer surface 118 close to the user 203's face, and then extending the elastic material 230 behind the user 203's head to hold the face cover 200'' against the user 203's face. Figures 2F to 2H show additional images illustrating an example of a single layer 101 used to create the face cover 200'' (Figure 2F), an elastic material 230 used to secure the face cover 200'' to the user 203 (Figure 2G), and the face cover 200'' with the elastic material 230 attached (Figure 2H).

[0060] While embodiments described with respect to Figures 2A-2H disclose the use of a single layer 101 (e.g., without additional layers) as a face cover, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this configuration. Other embodiments provide a face cover that includes using the single layer 101 in conjunction with a conventional mask (e.g., an N95). In this embodiment, the single layer 101 is used to reduce contamination of the conventional mask (e.g., by killing or inactivating pathogens that enter the mask) and effectively extend the lifespan of the conventional mask.

[0061] In one embodiment, the single layer 101 is used to cover the outside of a conventional mask (e.g., the side of the mask facing the user's external environment). In one exemplary embodiment, the conventional mask 310 includes one or more untreated layers (e.g., those not treated with pathogenic components) and is susceptible to surface contamination by pathogens. Figure 3A is an image showing an example of a perspective view of a face cover 300 including the single barrier layer 101 described in Figure 1, with the mask 310 covered, according to one embodiment. Figure 3B is an image showing an example of a cross-sectional view of the face cover 301 described in Figure 3A along the line 3B-3B. As shown in Figure 3A, the ear loops 306 are used to secure the conventional mask 310 to the face of the user 203. The single layer 101 is positioned outside the conventional mask 310 (for example, between the conventional mask 310 and the external environment 202) to prevent contamination of the conventional mask 310 by pathogens 210 entering the conventional mask 310 (for example, by killing or inactivating virus particles in aerosol droplets). In this embodiment, the outer surface 108 of the first face 106 of the single layer 101 is facing the external environment 202. As shown in Figure 3B, the conventional mask 310 is positioned within the second region 304 (for example, between the user 203 and the single layer 101).

[0062] In another embodiment, the single layer 101 is used to enclose a conventional mask (for example, to cover both the side facing the external environment 202 and the side facing the user 203 when worn on the face). Figure 3C is an image showing an example of a perspective view of a face cover 300' including the single barrier layer described in Figure 1 with a mask 310 enclosed, according to one embodiment. Figure 3D is an image showing an example of a 3D-3D cross-sectional view of the face cover 300' described in Figure 3C. Unlike the face cover 300 described in Figures 3A and 3B, the face cover 300' described in Figures 3C and 3D includes a single layer 101 that covers both sides of the conventional mask 310 (for example, the side of the conventional mask 310 facing the external environment 202 and the side of the conventional mask facing the user 203).

[0063] In yet another embodiment, a conventional mask 310 is enclosed within a single layer 101 (for example, so that all surfaces of the conventional mask 310 are covered by the single layer 101). As shown in Figure 3D, the conventional mask 310 is enclosed within a single layer 101', where the outer surface 108' of the first surface 106 is arranged to kill or inactivate pathogens 210 entering the conventional mask 310 from the external environment 202, and the outer surface 118' of the second surface 116 is arranged to kill or inactivate pathogens 211 entering the conventional mask 310 from the user 203 (for example, those spat out and / or aerosol droplets from a sneeze). Therefore, the single layer 101' shown in Figure 3D effectively kills and / or inactivates pathogens 210 and 211 entering the conventional mask 310 from both regions 202 and 304', minimizing the risk of contamination of the conventional mask 310 and extending the service life of the conventional mask 310.

[0064] In one embodiment, the single layer 101' is an integrated barrier such that the outer surface 108' and the outer surface 118' are part of the same piece of material. In other embodiments, the outer surface 108' and the outer surface 118' are made of separate pieces of the single layer 101' and are not integrated. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 108' and the outer surface 118' are separate pieces of material, and the outer surfaces 108' and 118' are each bonded to the conventional mask 310 (e.g., using an adhesive).

[0065] As described with respect to Figures 3C and 3D, in one embodiment, the single layer 101' is a single, integrated piece of material in which the conventional mask 310 is enclosed. Figures 3E and 3F are images showing examples of the front and rear views, respectively, of the single layer 101' before the mask 310 is enclosed. In one embodiment, Figures 3E and 3F show the single layer 101' as described in Figure 3D before the conventional mask 310 is enclosed. In one embodiment, the single layer 101' is folded around the edge (e.g., top edge) of the conventional mask 310 and secured to the opposite edge (e.g., bottom edge) using a fastener.

[0066] Figure 3E shows the outer surfaces 108' and 118' of a single layer 101' separated by a fold line 324 that folds the single layer 101' to enclose a conventional mask 310. Furthermore, in one embodiment, spaced adhesive strips 330 are provided along the edges of the outer surfaces 108' and 118' so that each edge of the single layer 101' adheres to the outside of the edges of the conventional mask 310. Furthermore, in one embodiment, multiple slits or openings 326a to 326d are provided adjacent to the four corners of the outer surface 118' so that the ear loops 306 of the conventional mask 310 pass through and are secured behind the ears of the user 203. In yet another embodiment, multiple folds 320, 322 are provided along the outer surfaces 108' and 108', with varying spacings between the folds 320, 322 as shown (for example, in the range of approximately 1.5 cm to approximately 4 cm). In one embodiment, the width of the outer surfaces 108', 118' is approximately 20 cm or in the range of approximately 15 cm to approximately 25 cm. In another embodiment, the height of the single layer 101' is approximately 33 cm or in the range of approximately 25 cm to approximately 40 cm.

[0067] Figure 3F shows the inner surfaces 107' and 117' of the single layer 101', which are oriented towards the front and back of the enclosed conventional mask 310 when the single layer 101' is folded and the conventional mask 310 is enclosed. In one embodiment, four openings 326a to 326d are also shown in Figure 3F, which are configured for the ear loops 306 to pass through and extend. Adhesive 340 is provided along the outer circumference of the inner surfaces 107' and 117' so that the edges of the inner surfaces 107' and 117' adhere together when the single layer 101' is folded and the conventional mask 310 is enclosed.

[0068] According to the embodiments described above, the single layer 101' can reduce the user's exposure to infectious pathogens. In one embodiment, the single layer 101' is a pleated mask cover that has the same flexibility as a surgical mask, wraps around the user's mask 310, provides a sealed environment with adhesives 330, 340 to prevent contamination of the mask, and has the flexibility to fit the user's face, enabling the snug fit required when using an N95 or similar mask / respirator. The mask cover has slits 326a-326d through which strings can be threaded when using a mask of the same standard as a surgical mask. In another embodiment, the mask cover also provides a method used for sealing protection when using a mask 310 with ear loops 306, or for fastening / securing it to the user's head. In one exemplary embodiment, the flap of the adhesive seal is designed to be peelable, allowing the cover to be opened and the mask 310 to be removed without contaminating either the outer or inner surface.

[0069] Figures 2A-2H and 3A-3D illustrate the use of the single layer 101 in relation to a face cover, but embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this use of the single layer 101. In another embodiment, the single layer 101 is used in relation to an air filter in an air conditioning system. The single layer 101 can be effectively used to kill or inactivate pathogens present in the air circulating by the air conditioning system. Figure 4A is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1 used as an air filter 404 in an air conditioning system 400 according to one embodiment. Figure 4B is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the air filter 404 of the air conditioning system 400 described in Figure 4A according to one embodiment.

[0070] In one embodiment, the air filter 404 includes a single layer 101' similar to the single layer 101' described in relation to Figures 3D-3F, except that it is sized and configured to enclose a conventional air filter 403 used in an air conditioning system 400 (rather than enclosing a conventional mask 310). In one exemplary embodiment, the single layer 101' is used to enclose an air filter 403 located within an air treatment unit 402 of an air conditioning system, effectively killing or inactivating pathogens in the air entering through the exhaust duct 406. In this exemplary embodiment, the first region 102 is the living space, and the second region 104 is the air treatment unit 402. In another exemplary embodiment, the single layer 101' is used to enclose (or be attached to a vent or grate) an air filter 403 located at the outlet (facing a room) of an air supply duct 408, effectively killing or inactivating pathogens in the air before it is released into the living space. In this exemplary embodiment, the first region 102 is the air supply duct 408, and the second region 104 is the living space (for example, the room to which the air from the duct 408 is directed).

[0071] In one embodiment, Figures 4A and 4B show an air filter 404 (having a single layer 101') used in the air treatment unit 402 of the air conditioning system 400 and at the outlet of the supply air duct 408. However, in some embodiments, the air filter 404 is used in either the air treatment unit 402 or the supply air duct 408. In yet another embodiment, Figure 4B shows that the air filter 404 includes a single layer 101' containing an air filter 403. In other embodiments, the air filter 404 consists only of single layers 101, 101' (for example, fixed to an external frame with dimensions approximately the same as a conventional filter slot in the air treatment unit 402, or with dimensions corresponding to the supply air duct 408 at the outlet).

[0072] In yet another embodiment, Figures 4A and 4B show single layers 101, 101' used in conjunction with air filters in air conditioning systems for residential or office use, but in yet another embodiment, single layers 101, 101' can be used in air conditioning systems for vehicles (e.g., vehicles with passenger compartments, including but not limited to airplanes, trains, and automobiles). In this embodiment, single layers 101, 101' can be used to enclose existing air filters in the air conditioning system of such vehicles, or to be positioned adjacent to the outlet (or inlet) of the vehicle's air conditioning system (without the use of conventional air filters) to kill or inactivate pathogens in the air circulating within the air conditioning system.

[0073] In one embodiment, another use of the single layer 101 is to form clothing or garments, particularly clothing or garments used in areas where pathogens are present (e.g., a medical facility). In one exemplary embodiment, the single layer 101 can be used to form clothing worn by a healthcare worker (e.g., a surgeon in an operating room). In this exemplary embodiment, the first region 102 is the external environment of the medical facility, and the second region 104 is the body of the healthcare worker (e.g., covered by the clothing). Figure 5 is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the single barrier layers 101a-101d described in Figure 1 used to form clothing 500 worn by a healthcare worker (e.g., a surgeon) according to one embodiment. In one exemplary embodiment, a single layer 101a is used to form a head cover worn by a healthcare worker, and / or a single layer 101b is used to form a face cover worn by a healthcare worker, and / or a single layer 101c is used to form a gown worn by a healthcare worker, and / or a single layer 101d is used to form a shoe cover worn by a healthcare worker. The inventors have recognized that by using a single layer to form one or more garments worn by a healthcare worker, it is effective in minimizing the risk of infection or contamination of the healthcare worker (and the external environment by the healthcare worker) from the external environment without affecting the degree of comfort of the healthcare worker due to the breathability of the single layer. In one embodiment, the garment 500 is not limited to a specific garment (e.g., a surgical gown) and includes an isolation gown (e.g., commonly used in an intensive care unit (ICU), which may be single-layered and relatively thin). In some embodiments, the surgical gown employs multiple layers of single layers 101 to ensure certain performance parameters (e.g., to prevent the passage of liquid contaminants).

[0074] In one embodiment, another application of the single layer 101 is an air filter used in a ventilator. Figure 6 is an image showing an example of a schematic diagram of the single barrier layer described in Figure 1 used as a filter 601 in a ventilator 600 according to one embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment, the first region 102 is an air supply duct 602 that directs air to the patient, and the second region 104 is the patient. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the first region 102 is the patient, and the second region 104 is an air supply duct 604 that directs air from the patient to the ventilator 600.

[0075] A method for forming a single layer 101 is shown. Figure 7 is a flowchart of an example of a method 700 for forming the single barrier layer 101 described in Figure 1, according to one embodiment. In Figure 7, a series of steps are shown in a specific order for illustrative purposes, but in other embodiments, one or more steps, or parts thereof, may be performed in a different order, overlapping in time, consecutively or in parallel, or omitted. Alternatively, one or more steps may be added, or the method may be modified in several combinations.

[0076] In one embodiment, Method 700 is configured to form the material of a single layer 101 in order to optimize one or more design parameters of the single layer 101. In one embodiment, one of the design parameters is the efficiency of the pathogen-killing component 112 in killing or inactivating pathogens. The inventors recognized that the efficiency is based on the concentration of the pathogen-killing component 112 used in forming the single layer 101. In one exemplary embodiment, a salt is employed as the antiviral component 112, and the efficiency is based on the degree of crystallinity (LOC) of the salt. Another design parameter is the breathability of the single layer 101, which affects the comfort (e.g., ease of breathing) of the user wearing the face cover containing the single layer 101. Thus, in one embodiment, Method 700 is configured to optimize these two design parameters of the single layer 101 (e.g., pathogen-killing efficiency or pathogen-inactivating efficiency, and ease of breathing). The inventors understood that changing one parameter may affect the other parameter. In one exemplary embodiment, the inventors have understood that increasing the concentration (or degree of crystallinity of the salt) of the pathogenic component 112 may reduce the breathability (i.e., ease of breathing) of a face cover employing a single layer 101. Therefore, in one exemplary embodiment, Method 700 is employed to optimize the values ​​of these parameters and design a single layer 101 having a concentration of pathogenic component 112 sufficient to efficiently kill or inactivate pathogens while ensuring adequate breathability (i.e., ease of breathing).

[0077] In one embodiment, a single material is used to form a single layer 101 (for example, one with a width and length of approximately 40 cm × 40 cm, and / or one with a width and length in the range of approximately 10 cm to approximately 50 cm). In one exemplary embodiment, the single material is a thermoplastic material (e.g., polypropylene) and / or a cotton blend (e.g., silk, wool, cotton, etc.).

[0078] In one embodiment, step 701 includes wetting the material with a solution containing a pathogenic component having a specific concentration. In one embodiment, the wetting in step 701 is carried out over a first time period (e.g., about 20 hours). In one exemplary embodiment, the solution has a certain salt concentration (e.g., about 0.02 ml / cm³). 2 ~Approx. 0.06ml / cm 2 Within the range of and / or approximately 0.01 ml / cm³ 2 ~about 0.1ml / cm 2 It contains salts within the range.

[0079] In another embodiment, step 701 includes applying a pathogenic component (e.g., a virucidal component and / or bactericidal component) to the material, which includes one or more of spraying, atomizing, sputtering, coating or dipping (e.g., for liquid components), and pelletizing or powdering (e.g., for solid components), and the application is carried out by dry coating, rolling, aerial spraying, dry sputtering, vapor deposition, compression and vacuum sealing. In one exemplary embodiment, a dry powder may be pulverized into nanoparticles or suspended in a liquid and emulsified to coat the mask cover. Gels and oils may be applied by liquid coating.

[0080] In one embodiment, step 701 includes immersing the material in a tank of solution for a first time so that the material is completely submerged, and / or uniformly spraying the solution onto the material, and / or pouring the solution onto the material from an injectable platform. In one exemplary embodiment, step 701 includes immersing the material in a tank of a certain amount (e.g., about 34 mL) of solution for a first time (e.g., about 12 hours) to alter its hydrophobicity and improve its wetting / water absorption properties, which is referred to as a pre-wetting treatment. In this exemplary embodiment, the remaining amount (e.g., 68 mL) is similarly applied before the drying step 703. In another exemplary embodiment, the material is completely submerged in the tank of solution during the wetting step 701. It should be noted that specific values ​​of the immersion parameters described above (e.g., the time of step 701, the size of the material, the amount of solution, etc.) are adjustable based on the application of the material (e.g., face covering, air filter, etc.).

[0081] In one embodiment, step 701 includes spraying the material placed in a petri dish or a dish of the required size (e.g., about 40 cm x 40 cm). In this embodiment, the spraying step is carried out using a jet spray or mist spray to evenly distribute the solution over the material. In one exemplary embodiment, the first time is approximately the same as the immersion step (e.g., about 12 hours). In one exemplary embodiment, the amount of spray solution used in the spraying step is about 0.90 mL. In another exemplary embodiment, the spray diameter used in the spraying step is about 15.5 cm when the material is 20 cm away. Note that the specific values ​​of the parameters of the spraying step described above (e.g., the time of step 701, the size of the material, the amount of solution, the amount of spray, etc.) are adjustable based on the application of the material (e.g., face cover, air filter, etc.). Note that the specific values ​​of the parameters of the spraying step described above (e.g., the time of step 701, the size of the material, the amount of spray, the spray diameter, etc.) are adjustable based on the application of the material (e.g., face cover, air filter, etc.).

[0082] In one embodiment, step 701 includes injecting a solution into the material. In this embodiment, the injection is performed using an injectable platform and a needle of a specific gauge range (e.g., about 28 gauge to about 32 gauge with an inner diameter in the range of about 0.18 mm to about 0.11 mm). In one exemplary embodiment, the target wetting area is about 2.7 mm. In another embodiment, the needles are arranged on a platform having the same width as a piece of material (e.g., about 40 cm). In one exemplary embodiment, the solution is evenly distributed and immediately inserted, injected, and impregnated into the material without pre-wetting time. In one exemplary embodiment, step 701 uses about 22,500 syringes and injects about 0.004 mL per syringe in a single step, thus eliminating the need for a pre-wetting step. In one exemplary embodiment, the volume is significantly greater than the dead volume of needles of the same size, allowing for optimal preparation of each syringe.

[0083] In one embodiment, step 703 includes drying the material wetted in step 701 for a second time (e.g., about 10 hours, or in the range of about 8 to about 15 hours) after the first time has elapsed. In one embodiment, step 703 is carried out in either an oven or a sealed container, and the second time for the drying step in the sealed container is shorter than the second time for the drying step in the oven. In one exemplary embodiment, in step 703, drying may be carried out at a temperature in the range of about 20°C to about 100°C, and sterilization may be carried out by heat (e.g., about 20°C to about 100°C) or gas sterilization.

[0084] In one embodiment, drying step 703 includes conventional drying, in which the material is placed in a conventional oven where the entire oven is heated uniformly by a rear fan. In this embodiment, drying step 703 is carried out for about 24 hours. In another embodiment, drying step 703 includes vacuum drying in a sealed container, which significantly reduces the relative humidity and pressure. In this exemplary embodiment, lowering the pressure can dry the material more quickly. In one exemplary embodiment, the boiling point of water is significantly lowered (for example, from about 100°C to about 35°C), resulting in an increased rate of evaporation, which can reduce drying time from 24 hours at atmospheric pressure to just a few hours under specific conditions.

[0085] In one embodiment, step 705 includes measuring the permeability of the material after step 703. In one embodiment, measuring permeability includes measuring the difference in air pressure before and after the material based on a constant flow rate through the material after step 703.

[0086] In one embodiment, step 707 sets the air permeability value measured in step 705 to an air permeability threshold (e.g., 0.2 mmH2O / cm²). 2 This includes comparing it to the following air pressure difference. If the air permeability measured in step 705 is greater than the threshold, method 700 proceeds to block 709. If the air permeability measured in step 705 is not greater than the threshold, method 700 proceeds to block 711.

[0087] In one embodiment, step 709 includes increasing the concentration of the pathogenic component 112 in the solution (for example, increasing the concentration of the salt in the solution) and repeating steps 701 to 707 with the increased concentration value of the solution.

[0088] In one embodiment, step 711 includes using the material from the previously repeated step 703 as the single layer 101. In one embodiment, if the measured air permeability is greater than the air permeability threshold, steps 701-707 are repeated. If it is shown in step 707 that the value of the air permeability is less than the air permeability threshold, it indicates that the concentration of the pathogen-killing component 112 is too high and is having an adverse effect on the air permeability. Therefore, in step 711, the concentration of the pathogen-killing component 112 formed in the previously repeated steps 701-707 is utilized to form the single layer 101. In one exemplary embodiment, if it is shown that the value of the air permeability measured in the fourth repetition of steps 701-707 is less than the threshold, then in step 711, the concentration value used in the third repetition of steps 701-707 is adopted to form the single layer 101. This concentration of the pathogen-killing component 112 serves to provide an effective balance in increasing the concentration of the pathogen-killing component 112 while ensuring an acceptable level of air permeability (e.g., to kill or inactivate pathogens to the maximum extent). The inventor discovered a surprising result that, despite repeating steps 701-707 four times and the salt concentration of the solution increasing continuously four times, the air permeability measured in step 707 in each repetition exceeded the threshold. Since the inventor had expected the air permeability to decrease as the salt concentration of the solution increased (for example, because it was expected that some of the pores would be partially covered as the concentration of salt crystals increased), this can be said to be a surprising result. Therefore, in one embodiment, the inventor performed method 700 and used the highest concentration value that increased continuously four times (steps 701-709 were repeated four times). In one exemplary embodiment, the increasing values of the salt concentration during the four repetitions of steps 701-709 were used. In one exemplary embodiment, the increasing concentration values in each repetition of steps 701-709 are 0.02122 ml / cm 2 , 0.03,182 ml / cm 2 , 0.04244 ml / cm 2 , and 0.0636 ml / cm 2This includes, however, these salt concentration values ​​are merely examples, and the salt concentration values ​​used in the methods herein are not limited to these specific values ​​or these specific ranges.

[0089] Materials treated with antiviral components (by steps 701 and 703) have specific properties and characteristics. In one embodiment, the solution is applied to a polypropylene sheet (step 701), so the material exhibits specific properties and characteristics that differ significantly from the raw sheet used in current conventional masks 310 (e.g., conventional surgical masks). Contact angle (Θ C Hydrophobicity (HQ) is defined as an index that measures the ability of a liquid to wet a solid surface. In addition to the formation of salt crystals (e.g., NaCl crystals) in the material (e.g., polypropylene fibers) on the material, the presence of surfactants can make the surface hydrophobic (e.g., Θ C (approximately 134±5°) to hydrophilic (Θ C The temperature changed to approximately 0°. As a result, the adsorption of viral aerosols to fibers was greatly improved.

[0090] In one embodiment, while using the single layer 101 formed by method 700, when the outer surfaces 108, 118 are exposed to viral aerosols, salt crystals at the contact points dissolve, gradually increasing the osmotic pressure within the viral cells. In this embodiment, evaporation occurs, and the salt concentration shifts from the high concentration in the single layer 101 to the viruses, eventually leading to cellular supersaturation. Once solubility reaches its limit, salt recrystallization begins. During drying, viral and bacterial cells are further exposed to increased osmotic pressure, eventually reaching hyperosmotic stress (e.g., greater than approximately 541 mOsm). The combination of crystallization and intercellular stress irreversibly deforms the viral envelope, and the virus loses its infectivity due to overall structural damage.

[0091] In one embodiment, the degree of crystallinity (LOC) of the salt-treated virus component used in the material is measured by X-ray diffraction. X-ray diffraction analysis is a commonly used method for microstructural analysis, particularly for determining the crystallographic structure of materials. The analysis results are quantified using Miller indices, where a set of three specific numerical combinations indicates the orientation of the atomic planes within the crystal. Figure 8B is an image showing an example of various Miller indices and the orientation of the atomic planes within the crystal associated with each Miller indice.

[0092] X-ray diffraction (XRD) is an experimental science that identifies the atomic and molecular structure of crystals. Depending on the crystal structure, an incident X-ray beam is diffracted in numerous specific directions. Crystallographers can measure the angles and intensities of these diffracted rays to generate a three-dimensional image of the electron density within the crystal. From this electron density, it is possible to determine the average position of atoms within the crystal, as well as chemical bonding, crystal disorder, and various other pieces of information.

[0093] Because many substances, including salts, metals, minerals, semiconductors, and various inorganic, organic, and biomolecules, can form crystals, X-ray diffraction has been the foundation for the development of many scientific fields. In single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements, a sample (e.g., a single layer 101, 101', or a small piece thereof formed by the method herein) is set in a goniometer. The goniometer is used to position the sample (e.g., layers 101, 101') in a selected direction. A finely focused monochromatic X-ray beam is irradiated onto the sample (e.g., a single layer 101, 101'), generating a diffraction pattern of regularly spaced spots known as reflections. Two-dimensional images taken in different directions are combined with known chemical data about the sample (single layer 101, 101') using a mathematical technique called the Fourier transform to create a three-dimensional model of the electron density within the sample.

[0094] Figure 8A is an image showing an example of Graph 800, which compares the X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum (curve 806) of a single layer 101 with the X-ray diffraction spectrum (curve 808) of a conventional mask 310. The horizontal axis 802 represents the direction of the sample (e.g., single layers 101, 101') relative to the X-ray beam used for XRD. The vertical axis 804 represents the intensity (in arbitrary units) indicating the electron density within the sample (e.g., single layers 101, 101'). As shown in curve 808 in Figure 8A, multiple peaks 806a to 806i are present within curve 808, indicating the presence of a crystal structure in that direction within the sample (e.g., single layers 101, 101'). Similarly, as shown in Figure 8A, Miller indices are shown for each of the peaks 806a to 806i, indicating the Miller index of each peak. In one exemplary embodiment, peaks 806a to 806i collectively represent the degree of crystallinity of single layers 101 and 101' for each plane within the single layers 101 and 101' (Miller indices or peaks in Figure 8A).

[0095] In one embodiment, XRD generates a diffraction pattern that provides clues to understanding the atomic structure within the salt crystal, and the electron density in the crystal lattice plane is quantified by the associated intensity (in arbitrary units; see vertical axis 804). The inventors have observed that when low concentrations of salt are used, the intensity of the XRD diffraction pattern decreases because less salt is used. In one exemplary embodiment, since all crystals have specific Miller indices, peaks 806a–806i correlate with those of NaCl. In one exemplary embodiment, the average intensity recorded at the salt concentrations used herein was approximately 3 au (in arbitrary units), and specific peaks of the crystals were higher.

[0096] In one embodiment, the filtration efficiency of the single layer 101 is another parameter measured and used in the preparation of the single layer 101. The purpose of particle filtration efficiency (PFE) is to demonstrate the proper filtration of monodisperse particles at a constant flow rate (e.g., using the method according to ASTM F2299). In one embodiment, to measure the PFE of the single layer 101, a predetermined amount of polystyrene latex particles (e.g., those from Agar Scientific with an average particle diameter of 0.216 ± 0.0009 μm) passed through the material at a constant flow rate (e.g., 10 cm / sec). Light scattering is used to quantify the number of particles downstream. The efficiency value is

number

[0097] Table 1 below shows the PFE values ​​for a conventional fleece mask, a conventional three-layer surgical mask, and a single-layer 101 (referred to as "Amplified Shield" in Table 1). As shown in the PFE values ​​in Table 1, the filtration efficiency of the single-layer 101 is approximately 98.7%, which is higher than the filtration efficiency of the two conventional masks. [Table 1] Figure 9A is an image 900 showing an example of light scattering of particles downstream of a conventional mask (e.g., a fleece mask) according to one embodiment. Figure 9B is an image 910 showing an example of light scattering of particles downstream of a conventional surgical mask (e.g., a three-layer surgical mask) according to one embodiment. Figure 9C is an image 920 showing an example of light scattering of particles downstream of a single barrier layer 101 (e.g., an amplified shield in Table 1) of the face cover 200 described in Figure 2A according to one embodiment.

[0098] In one embodiment, the viral filtration efficiency / bacterial filtration efficiency (VFE / BFE) of the single layer 101 is another parameter measured and used in the preparation of the single layer 101. The purpose of VFE / BFE is to quantify the performance of the single layer 101 in filtering bacteria and viruses (e.g., using the method according to ASTM F2101). In one embodiment, the method for measuring BFE according to ASTM F2101 is based on an aerosolized liquid suspension of Staphylococcus aureus (e.g., Sigma Aldrich with an average particle diameter of 3.5 ± 0.6 pm) passing through the target material at a constant flow rate of 1 ft³ / min in a six-stage undersensor sampler. Each layer contains an agar plate that serves as a culture medium for growing the bacteria passing through the material.

[0099] In one embodiment, the method for measuring VFE according to ASTM F2101 is based on aerosolized bacteriophage ΦX174 (for example, the average size of virus-containing water droplets is 3.2 ± 0.4 μm, but this is not that of individual viruses) that affects only E. coli and is subsequently projected onto the sample. The agar plate is not plain but inoculated with E. coli.

[0100] For both the BFE and VFE tests, the results are compared to a controlled trial without using single-layer 101. BFE and VFE are:

number

number

[0101] Figure 10 is an image showing an example of a graph 1000 illustrating the VFE of the single barrier layer 101 described in Figure 1, according to one embodiment. The horizontal axis 1002 represents the exposure time in minutes, and the vertical axis 1004 represents the virus titer in pfu / μg. In one embodiment, the bars on the left at each time point represent the virus titer of the conventional mask 310, and the bars on the right at each time point represent the virus titer of the single layers 101 and 101'. As shown in Figure 10, at the start of exposure, the virus titer values ​​(approximately 1000) of the conventional mask 310 and the single layers 101 and 101' are the same. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, after 5 minutes of exposure, the virus titer value of the conventional mask 310 remains the same as at the start of exposure (approximately 1000), while the virus titer values ​​of the single layers 101 and 101' have decreased significantly from the start of exposure (approximately 10). This confirmed that single layers 101 and 101' inactivated or killed at least 95% of the virus titer at the start of exposure in just 5 minutes. Figure 10 also shows that at later exposure times (e.g., 20 minutes, 60 minutes), the virus titer of the conventional mask 310 remained relatively high (approximately 700), while the virus titer of the single layers 101 and 101' decreased to approximately 0. In another embodiment, hemagglutinin (HA) activity was almost completely lost. Specifically, glycoproteins essential for infection were found on the surface of the virus. Microscopic observation confirmed that the aerosol drying time was approximately 3 minutes. This indicates a correlation between virus destruction and salt crystallization due to drying.

[0102] In one embodiment, the liquid resistance of the single layer 101 is another parameter measured and used in the creation of the single layer 101. The purpose of liquid resistance is to provide sufficient resistance to liquid moving from the outer layer to the inner layer by splashes or sprays. In one exemplary embodiment, a specific method for measuring liquid resistance is employed (e.g., the method according to ASTM F1862). In one exemplary embodiment, 2 mL of synthetic blood is projected onto the single layer 101 at various rates corresponding to blood pressure levels of Level 1 (venous blood pressure of 80 mmHg), Level 2 (arterial blood pressure of 120 mmHg), and Level 3 (high blood pressure during trauma of 160 mmHg). In one embodiment, the single layer 101 is an auxiliary to the existing mask, extending the lifespan of the existing mask in addition to reducing the number of potential vectors, and consequently reducing secondary contamination. Depending on the setting, the single layer 101 improves barrier efficiency by adding an additional layer, corresponding to all three levels. In the ASTM standard, a mask is considered acceptable if at least 29 out of 32 masks show no liquid on the other side. Table 4 below shows the number of single-layer 101 masks that passed and failed at each level. [Table 4]

[0103] In one embodiment, the air exchange rate (i.e., air permeability) of the single layer 101 is another parameter measured and used in the creation of the single layer 101. The air exchange rate parameter is generally expressed as ΔP and indicates sufficient breathability for the user wearing the face cover (made of the single layer 101). This is the ability of the single layer 101 to restrict the airflow through it (e.g., using the method according to EN 14683). In one embodiment, the method for measuring the air exchange rate (or air permeability) is employed in step 705 of method 700, in which the difference in air pressure on both sides of the single layer 101 is measured using a pressure gauge while supplying air at a constant flow rate. Table 5 below shows the values ​​for air exchange rate (i.e., air permeability), which are the values ​​required for FDA approval (top row of Table 5), the values ​​for a conventional mask 310 (middle row of Table 5), and the values ​​for a face cover 300 including both the conventional mask 310 and the single layer 101 (bottom row of Table 5). Therefore, in one embodiment, the amount of air exchange (i.e., air permeability) is the difference between the middle and lower rows of Table 5 (for example, approximately 0.05 to approximately 0.07 mmH2O / cm²). 2 ) based on. [Table 5] Furthermore, Table 6 below summarizes the performance parameters of the single layer 101 measured at each level (rightmost column of Table 6). [Table 6]

Claims

1. A barrier positioned between a first region and a second region, configured to prevent pathogens from passing through between the first region and the second region, The barrier comprises a single layer treated with a pathogenic component, The single layer includes a first surface oriented toward the first region and a second surface oriented toward the second region. The first surface is an outer surface coated with the pathogenic component, and includes an outer surface coated such that pathogens within the first region penetrate the outer surface. The second surface is an outer surface coated with the pathogenic component, and includes an outer surface coated such that pathogens within the second region penetrate the outer surface. The pathogenic component coated on the outer surfaces of the first and second surfaces is configured to inactivate pathogens that penetrate the outer surfaces of the first and second surfaces, respectively. A barrier characterized by the following features.

2. The barrier comprises only a single layer and does not include any additional layer placed between the first region and the second region. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

3. The pathogenic component comprises one or more salts, acids, and esters. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

4. The pathogenic component is a virucidal component comprising a salt of a certain degree of crystallinity over the thickness of a single layer from the outer surface of the first surface to the outer surface of the second surface. The barrier according to claim 3, characterized in that it is as follows.

5. The single layer is such that the difference in air pressure between the first surface and the second surface is approximately 0.2 mmH, based on the airflow passing through the single layer at a constant flow rate. ２ 0 / cm ２ Having breathability such that it is less than The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

6. The aforementioned difference in air pressure is approximately 0.1 mmH ２ 0 / cm ２ Less than, The barrier according to claim 5, characterized in that it is a barrier.

7. The barrier has a virus filtration efficiency of at least 95% between the first region and the second region. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

8. The barrier is configured to be worn on the user's face such that the first region represents the user's external environment and the second region represents the user's face. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

9. The outer surface of the second surface is further provided with an adhesive, The second surface is configured to be attached directly to the user's face using the adhesive. The barrier according to claim 8, characterized in that it is as follows.

10. The adhesive is provided along the outer circumference of the outer surface of the second surface to ensure a sealed state between the barrier and the user when the second surface is directly attached to the user's face. The barrier according to claim 9, characterized in that it is a barrier.

11. A face cover worn by the user, The first barrier according to claim 8, The system comprises a secondary layer, which is not treated with a pathogenic component, positioned between the second surface of the single layer and the user's face. The first barrier is configured to inactivate pathogens entering from the user's external environment and to prevent contamination of the secondary layer. A face cover characterized by the following features.

12. The second barrier according to claim 8 is further provided, which is positioned between the secondary layer and the user's face. The second barrier is configured to inactivate pathogens entering through the user's face and prevent contamination of the secondary layer. The face cover according to claim 11, characterized by its features.

13. The first barrier and the secondary barrier are integrated barriers including a single integrated layer configured to enclose the secondary layer. The integrated barrier inactivates pathogens entering from the first or second region and prevents contamination of the secondary layer. The face cover according to claim 12, characterized by its features.

14. The first barrier and the second barrier are separate barriers having separate single layers. The face cover according to claim 12, characterized by its features.

15. The barrier is an air filter configured to be placed in the piping of an air conditioning system. The first region is a conduit configured to direct the airflow, The second region is the area that receives the airflow after it has passed through the air filter. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

16. The barrier is an air filter configured to be placed in the conduit of a ventilator used on a patient, The first region is a conduit configured to direct the airflow exhaled by the patient, The second area is the external environment of the ventilator in the medical facility. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

17. The barrier is a garment designed to be worn by healthcare workers. The first domain is the external environment of the healthcare worker in the medical facility, and the second domain is the body of the healthcare worker. The barrier according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

18. A method for forming the barrier according to claim 1, a) Wetting the material with a solution containing a pathogenic component at a certain concentration for a first time. b) After the first time has elapsed, dry the material for a second time. c) After the second time has elapsed, measure the air permeability of the dried material. d) Comparing the measured air permeability value with the air permeability threshold, e) Based on the measured air permeability value being greater than the threshold, the single layer according to claim 1 is formed using the dried material from step b), A method characterized by the following:

19. If the measured air permeability value in step c) is greater than the threshold, the method further comprises increasing the concentration of the pathogenic component and repeating steps a) to d) with the increased concentration value. The dried material in step e) is based on the highest value among the concentrations of the pathogenic component whose measured air permeability value is greater than the threshold. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

20. The wetting step comprises immersing the material in a tank containing the solution for the first time such that the material is completely submerged. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

21. The wetting step comprises uniformly spraying the solution onto the material. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

22. The wetting step comprises injecting the solution into the material from an injectable platform. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

23. The drying process is carried out in either an oven or a sealed container. The second time for the drying process in the sealed container is shorter than the second time for the drying process in the oven. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that it is the method described in claim 18.

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