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Tuneable and biodegradable poly(ester amide)s for disposable facemasks
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Scientists developed biodegradable face mask filters made from novel bio-based poly(ester amide) polymers that fully degrade within 35 days. The filters matched the particle capture efficiency and breathability of commercial mask filters, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to standard disposable masks that contribute to microplastic pollution.
The widespread use of disposable facemasks during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to environmental widespread concern due to microplastic pollution. Biodegradable disposable facemasks are a first step to reducing the environmental impact of pandemics. In this paper we present high-performance facemask components based on novel poly(ester amide) (PEA) grades synthesized from bio-sourced materials and processed into non-woven facemask components. PEA based polymers present an excellent compromise between mechanical performance and biodegradability. Importantly, the properties of the PEA can easily be tuned by changing the ratio of the ester and amides, or variation of diol and diacid part. We synthesized seven polymers which we optimized for biodegradability and processability. Among them, two grades combined electrospinning process compatibility with full degradation within 35 days, using a normalized biodegradation test. The ultra-thin filters thus developed were evaluated for performance on a custom-made characterization bench. The filters achieved a microparticle capture efficiency and breathability comparable to commercial filters. Another PEA grade was optimized to reach optimal visco-thermal properties that made it compatible with solvent-free melt-spinning process as demonstrated with continuous fibres production. Overall, our environmentally friendly solution paves the way for the fabrication of high-performance fibres with excellent biodegradability for the next generation facemasks.
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Tunable and Biodegradable Poly(Ester Amide)s for Disposable Facemasks
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Researchers synthesized seven novel poly(ester amide) (PEA) polymers from biosourced materials for use as biodegradable disposable facemask components, addressing microplastic pollution from conventional disposable masks. Two PEA grades achieved full biodegradation within 35 days and were compatible with electrospinning, producing ultra-thin filter fibers with microparticle capture efficiency and air permeability comparable to commercial filters.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.