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61,005 resultsShowing papers similar to Need for Assessing the Inhalation of Micro(nano)plastic Debris Shed from Masks, Respirators, and Home-Made Face Coverings During the COVID-19 Pandemic
ClearExudation of microplastics from commonly used face masks in COVID-19 pandemic
Researchers simulated real-world mask usage and found that commonly used face masks — including surgical and cloth types — shed measurable quantities of microplastic particles that could be inhaled by the wearer, raising concerns about respiratory exposure during prolonged mask use.
Particles and fragments in unused disposable face masks: A microscopic analysis
Researchers microscopically examined commercially available surgical masks and found particles and fragments in the 2–40 micrometer range on fiber surfaces inside all masks tested, raising questions about whether mask wearers may inhale these microplastic-sized particles.
A threat or not? A global-scale investigation on microplastics inhalation during the first-ever worldwide face-mask wearing against the COVID-19 pandemic
Researchers built a custom inhalation simulator to test whether wearing face masks increases or decreases microplastic inhalation. They conducted measurements across different mask types and found that while masks do release some microplastic fibers, they generally provide net protection by filtering out airborne particles. The study provides evidence that mask-wearing during the pandemic likely reduced, rather than increased, overall microplastic inhalation.
Health outcomes attributed to inhalation of microplastic released from mask during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review
This systematic review examined how face masks worn during COVID-19 release microplastics that can be inhaled. The most common particles were polypropylene fibers smaller than 300 micrometers. Inhaled microplastics were linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and potential cancer risk. These findings highlight a lesser-known health trade-off of widespread mask use during the pandemic.
Fabric structure and polymer composition as key contributors to micro(nano)plastic contamination in face masks.
Researchers investigated how the structure of face masks — including surgical polypropylene and fashionable polyurethane masks — influences the generation of micro- and nano-plastics during normal wear and UV aging. The findings show that mask material composition and fabric structure are key determinants of how much plastic particles are shed into the wearer's breathing zone.
Disposable face masks: a direct source for inhalation of microplastics
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.
Investigating the current status of COVID-19 related plastics and their potential impact on human health
This review examines how the COVID-19 pandemic increased human exposure to microplastics through the widespread use of plastic-based personal protective equipment like disposable face masks and gloves. Researchers found that face masks release microplastics that can be directly inhaled during use or transported through the environment, potentially carrying chemical contaminants and pathogens. The study highlights the need for more research on the health effects of PPE-derived microplastic exposure.
Nano- and microplastics in the workplace
Researchers examined occupational exposure to nano- and microplastics in workplaces, noting that the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically increased use of N95 respirators, disposable gloves, and other PPE, raising new concerns about plastic particle inhalation and dermal exposure for workers. The study calls for greater attention to workplace nano- and microplastic exposure assessment and regulation.
COVID-19: Performance study of microplastic inhalation risk posed by wearing masks
Researchers tested how different types of face masks affect the risk of inhaling microplastics during breathing. They found that while masks generally reduce exposure to granular microplastics, surgical, cotton, and activated carbon masks can increase fiber-like microplastic inhalation, and reusing disinfected masks raises particle exposure further. N95 masks offered the best protection, reducing spherical microplastic inhalation risk by over 25 times compared to wearing no mask.
An ecotoxicological perspective of microplastics released by face masks
This review assessed the ecotoxicological hazard of microplastics derived from face masks, which were produced in unprecedented quantities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors identified significant uncertainties about real-world impact concentrations and called for standardized testing to better characterize the toxicity of face mask-derived microplastics to aquatic and terrestrial organisms.
Uncovering the Release of Micro/nanoplastics from Disposable Face Masks at Times of COVID-19
Researchers found that disposable face masks release significant amounts of micro- and nanoplastic particles when subjected to water exposure and mechanical stress similar to environmental conditions. This confirms that the massive use of masks during COVID-19 introduced new sources of microplastic pollution into the environment.
Microplastics release from face masks: Characteristics, influential factors, and potential risks
This review found that disposable face masks, used widely since the COVID-19 pandemic, release microplastics -- mostly transparent fibers smaller than 1 millimeter -- especially after UV exposure, extended wear, and disinfection for reuse. The health risk of inhaling these mask-derived microplastics directly into the lungs should not be overlooked, particularly for healthcare workers and others who wear masks for long periods.
Face Mask: As a Source or Protector of Human Exposure to Microplastics and Phthalate Plasticizers?
Researchers tested five types of face masks to determine whether they protect against or contribute to human inhalation of microplastics and phthalate plasticizers. They found that while masks filter out some airborne microplastics, they also release their own microplastic fibers and contain phthalate chemicals that wearers can inhale. The study suggests face masks have a dual role as both protectors and sources of microplastic and chemical exposure.
Face masks: a COVID-19 protector or environmental contaminant?
This review examined how the massive global use of disposable face masks during COVID-19 has created a significant source of microplastic pollution, with billions of masks entering the environment and releasing plastic fibers and chemical contaminants.
Assessment of inhalation exposure to microplastic particles when disposable masks are repeatedly used
Researchers assessed whether reusing disposable medical masks leads to inhalation exposure to microplastics by testing masks under simulated wearing conditions. They found that hand-rubbed new masks released approximately 1.5 times more microplastic particles than untouched ones, and reused masks released even more through physical abrasion. The predominant particles were polypropylene and polyethylene fragments, raising concerns about repeated mask use as a source of microplastic inhalation.
Preliminary study on the ejection of microplastics from different types of face masks
Researchers tested surgical masks, cloth masks, and N95 respirators to see how many microplastics they release. They found that all types shed microplastic fibers, with surgical masks releasing the most particles, and that used masks shed more than unused ones. The study raises awareness that face masks, while important for health protection, are themselves a source of microplastic exposure.
Face masks as a source of nanoplastics and microplastics in the environment: Quantification, characterization, and potential for bioaccumulation
Researchers found that each surgical or N95 face mask can release over one billion nanoplastic and microplastic particles, mostly smaller than one micrometer, when they break down. The study also detected microplastics in the nasal mucus of mask wearers, suggesting inhalation exposure during use. Additionally, mask-derived particles were shown to adsorb onto marine organisms across different levels of the food chain, raising concerns about both human health and environmental impacts.
Fabrication of microplastic and nanoplastic particles and fibres for use in pulmonary toxicity studies
Researchers developed fabrication methods for polyamide, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate micro/nanoplastics in both particle and fiber forms, producing respirable-sized test materials with verified chemical purity for use in more environmentally realistic lung toxicity studies.
Wearing Face Masks as a Potential Source for Inhalation and Oral Uptake of Inanimate Toxins: a Scoping Review
Researchers conducted a scoping review of 1,003 studies examining face masks as a potential source of inanimate toxin exposure, assessing evidence on chemical compounds and particulates — including microplastics — that may be released from masks during inhalation and oral contact during prolonged wear.
Microplastics/nanoplastics released from facemasks as contaminants of emerging concern
This review examines how disposable facemasks, made primarily from polypropylene and polyethylene, release microplastics and nanoplastics into the environment. Chemical, physical, and biological processes break down discarded masks into tiny plastic particles that persist in ecosystems. Given the billions of masks used during COVID-19, this represents a significant and growing source of microplastic pollution.
A review of disposable facemasks during the COVID-19 pandemic: A focus on microplastics release
This review examines the environmental threats posed by disposable face masks used during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on microplastic release. Researchers found that discarded masks undergo physical and chemical degradation in the environment, generating microplastics that contaminate both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The study provides an overview of current knowledge on microplastic extraction methods and proposes strategies for controlling mask-related plastic pollution through source reduction and improved waste management.
An emerging class of air pollutants: Potential effects of microplastics to respiratory human health?
This review explores the emerging concern that airborne microplastics can be inhaled by humans, potentially causing adverse effects on the respiratory system. Researchers compiled available data on the concentration, size, shape, and chemical composition of microplastic particles found in urban air. The findings suggest that airborne plastic debris represents a largely understudied class of air pollutant with potential implications for human health.
Global face mask pollution: threats to the environment and wildlife, and potential solutions
Researchers reviewed the global face mask pollution crisis following COVID-19, estimating massive production volumes and finding that most disposal pathways generate secondary microplastic pollution or toxic emissions, and proposing countermeasures including biodegradable mask development and improved waste management policy.
Overview on the occurrence of microplastics in air and implications from the use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic
This review summarizes current knowledge about microplastic occurrence in indoor and outdoor air, finding that indoor environments often contain higher concentrations due to the breakdown of synthetic textiles, furniture, and construction materials. Researchers also examined how face mask use during the COVID-19 pandemic may both reduce inhalation of airborne microplastics and introduce new microfiber sources from the masks themselves. The study highlights significant gaps in understanding the health risks of breathing in airborne microplastic particles.