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Disposable face masks: a direct source for inhalation of microplastics
Summary
Using a piston device that simulated human breathing, researchers found that surgical masks release microplastic particles ranging from 300 nm to 2 mm during normal use, including nanoscale particles capable of penetrating deep lung tissue. Because surgical mask use surged during COVID-19, these findings raise serious questions about a previously unrecognized daily inhalation exposure route for microplastics.
Surgical masks have played a crucial role in healthcare facilities to protect against respiratory and infectious diseases, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the synthetic fibers, mainly made of polypropylene, used in their production may adversely affect the environment and human health. Recent studies have confirmed the presence of microplastics and fibers in human lungs and have related these synthetic particles with the occurrence of pulmonary ground glass nodules. Using a piston system to simulate human breathing, this study investigates the role of surgical masks as a direct source of inhalation of microplastics. Results reveal the release of particles of sizes ranging from nanometers (300 nm) to millimeters (~2 mm) during normal breathing conditions, raising concerns about the potential health risks. Notably, large visible particles (> 1 mm) were observed to be ejected from masks with limited wear after only a few breathing cycles. Given the widespread use of masks by healthcare workers and the potential future need for mask usage by the general population during seasonal infectious diseases or new pandemics, developing face masks using safe materials for both users and the environment is imperative.