Advanced Facial Mask Using Roll-to-Roll Processed Superhydrophobic Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes for Enhanced Antiviral Effects and Reusability

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the limitations of traditional preventative measures and underscored the essential role of face masks in controlling virus transmission. More effective and recyclable facial masks using various materials have been developed. In this work, vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) are employed as effective facial mask filters, particularly aimed at preventing SARS-CoV-2 virus infection in preparation for future COVID-19 pandemics. This study assesses six critical aspects of facial masks: hydrophobicity, industrial viability, breathability, hyperthermal antiviral effect, toxicity, and reusability. The VACNT alone exhibits superhydrophobicity with a contact angle of 175.53°, and an average of 142.7° for a large area on spun-bonded polypropylene. VACNTs are processed using a roll-to-roll method, eliminating the need for adhesives. Due to the aligned tubes, VACNT filters demonstrate exceptional breathability and moisture ventilation compared to previously reported CNT and conventional filters. Hyperthermal tests of VACNT filters under sunlight confirm that up to 99.8% of the HCoV 229E virus denatures even in cold environments. The safety of using VACNTs is corroborated through histopathological evaluation and subcutaneous implantation tests, addressing concerns of respiratory and skin inflammation. VACNT masks efficiently transmit moisture and rapidly return to their initial dry state under sunlight maintaining their properties after 10000 bending cycles. In addition, the unique capability of VACNT filters to function as respiratory sensors, signaling dampness and facilitating reuse, is assessed, alongside their Joule heating effect.

Keywords

antiviral effect / COVID-19 / facial masks / mask filters / reusable masks / superhydrophobicity / vertically aligned carbon nanotubes

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